This April, celebrate Autism Awareness Month, not just by joining community walks, but by acknowledging the positive effects cannabis has on the most aggressive symptoms of autism. Though I highly discourage people to break the law, I want to commend the parents and caregivers who face possible incarceration for speaking out about the benefits they have experienced with cannabis for treating autism.
The Zartler Family has committed to cannabis advocacy publicly, at the risk of becoming felons. They shared their story with the world and our Texas Legislature, to hopefully find sanctuary from government intrusion, and continue treating their autistic daughter. They are not the only Texas family who struggles to find peace living with autism. Many families have exhausted all the recommended and legal options for treating uncontrollably violent behavior. These families tend to be strong, but they are still human. Being repetitively beaten by your adult child, who you know does not fully understand the impact of his or her actions, can be more than overwhelming.
After half the states legalized medical cannabis on some level, we now have groundbreaking research that could revolutionize the medical industry and the way everyone views cannabis. Several research studies reveal a link between people with autism and a gene mutation which inhibits the body's endocannabinoid system from producing cannabinoids. They claim that cannabis can help! Great news for the treatment of autism, right? This research credibly reinforces the anecdotal evidence we are seeing from the effects of cannabis concentrates on symptoms of autism (of which may include aggressive and self-injurious behavior, uncontrollable screaming, and violent gestures).
The Texas House Committee of Criminal Jurisprudence voted 4-2 in favor of HB81, to reduce the penalty of marijuana possession from a criminal to a civil offense. For most average citizens who slip up once or twice, this bill will save them time and money. It may also cut down on cost of enforcement associated with low level possession. But for those who need cannabis in its concentrated forms, to treat severe illnesses, this bill does not provide a solution. These people would remain felons for possessing an herb that may keep them alive. Even though some may find medical relief without the concentrated form, according to the amendments made to HB81 before it passed committee, people will only be "allowed" up to three chances before their possession becomes a Class C Misdemeanor again. There is bipartisan support for this bill which many see as a step forward in the efforts of legalization in the future. The step is positive, but does not in any way represent individual freedom. Let's keep taking more steps toward the goal of freedom.
Help support the cause for the safe and legal access of medicinal cannabis for so many suffering from debilitating conditions in Texas. Check out these bills, contact your legislators, and encourage them to support them: HB2107 and SB269 (safe and legal access to medicinal cannabis). If you have questions about how to proceed, check out these resources to guide you through it: Texas for Responsible Marijuana Policy, Republicans Against Marijuana Prohibition, http://www.capitol.state.tx.us/
Always in Liberty!
Amanda Smith
Owner and Consultant
806.445.9839 ph
No comments:
Post a Comment
Thanks for visiting, add a comment!