Global Ganja Report

Months after Iowa's pharmacy board recommended the state approve a medical marijuana law, progress is stymied as a legislative leader and a board official each say the other needs to act.

As part of its unanimous recommendation in February, the board asked the Legislature to create a committee to consider how to implement a medical marijuana program. But House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy says the board can authorize the use of marijuana for medicinal purposes without the Legislature getting involved. Pharmacy board executive director Lloyd Jessen disagrees, saying lawmakers need to decide on matters such as medical conditions that qualify and penalties for violating the law. (AP, June 20)