Gov. LePage’s Medical Cannabis Veto Overturned by House and Senate
[dropcap class=”kp-dropcap”]R[/dropcap]ecently, Gov. Paul LePage vetoed a bill that would allow access to medical cannabis for any medical necessity. On July 9, the Maine House of Representatives voted 119-23 to override Gov. LePage’s veto, followed by a vote 25-8 from the Maine Senate to override the same veto.
Gov. LePage appears to be on a completely different page than other lawmakers in Maine. In an angry July 6 letter, the governor cited 11 reasons as to why he vetoed the bill, including complaints about allowing medical cannabis research. He also complained that the state’s caregiver system—composed of about 3,000 caregivers statewide—lacks oversight and is out of control.
For a refresher, Gov. LePage has vetoed nearly every piece of cannabis legislation, medical or recreational, that has come to his desk, according to the Portland Press Herald.
Maine lawmakers shared enthusiasm about overturning the veto, and praised the state’s existing programs. “Maine’s medical cannabis program is already one of the best in the country,” said Sen. Eric Brakey. “The passage of L.D. 1539 will make it even stronger. More access and choice for patients. More flexibility for legal businesses. And more integrity to the overall program.” With the passage of the new bill, the state’s medical cannabis program will only get stronger.
Maine residents in the cannabis industry shared the enthusiasm. “I’m thrilled,” local cannabis-friendly consultant Amanda Melnick said. “Seeing the House vote unanimously for a bill you believe is an amazing feeling. Maine’s medical cannabis program has always been unique and it deserves to be protected. These bills create the structure that Maine’s patients, caregivers, dispensaries and medical professionals deserve.”
The lawmakers also overturned a separate bill that creates a new license for medical cannabis manufacturers. The bills are back on track to becoming implemented. The bill will become law within 90 days after the close of the current legislative session.
