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The Ohio Patient Action Network has had the pleasure of twice hosting Don
Murphy, former Maryland Assemblyman, sponsor of Maryland's
medical marijuana bill, and founder of the group Republicans
for Compassionate Access. During his first visit on February 7, 2007, we
had appointments with 18 different offices both in the Ohio House of Representatives
and in the Ohio Senate. April 26, 2007, was Mr. Murphy's second visit to our
Statehouse and we visited 14 Republican Ohio House Representatives.
During these visits with our Ohio legislators, Mr. Murphy focuses on the Republican
values and how they are consistent with supporting the issue of medical
marijuana. Compassionate access is very much in keeping with the Republican
belief of personal responsibility and less intrusive government. Medical marijuana
also honors the pro-life stance of preserving and enhancing life for those who
suffer terminally. True compassionate conservatism should exhibit real compassion,
not cruelty.
I would like to thank MPP and Don Murphy for all of the help that
they have given to Ohio. Ohio is poised to join the other medical
marijuana states, hopefully during this 2007-2008 legislative session.
Our new governor, Ted Strickland, is a very compassionate man who has promised
he will not oppose any legislation that protects medical
marijuana patients. As a U.S. Congressman, he kept his promise by
voting in support of medical marijuana patients every time.
The key to winning protection for cannabis patients in the now purple state
of Ohio is to gain Republican support. The minority Democratic party, although
supportive, does not have the votes needed to pass any legislation. The need
is clear for bipartisan support if we wish to be successful.
Don Murphy's visits to Ohio have been invaluable
in creating an open dialog with Republican leaders. His insight as a
former Maryland legislator affords him respect and camaraderie among our Ohioan
Republican caucus members. His ability to relate to legislators has opened closed
doors for us. I have witnessed hardened right wingers soften when confronted
on their values by Mr. Murphy. I am convinced that his work with us has greatly
enhanced our efforts to reach the compassion within Republican hearts.
I know when the Republican caucus hears that Don Murphy is coming, there are
some members who have changed their schedules to make sure they will be able
to meet him. In my follow-ups with the offices we have visited, they always
tell me what a pleasure it was to meet Mr. Murphy. I know that his visits are
very beneficial and have helped our progress here in Ohio.
Legislators have also mentioned that they want to hear from their constituents
about medical marijuana. Visits, phone calls, letters, or emails, they
want to know what we the people want. So please let them know!
Whether Democrat or Republican, we need ALL of our legislators to hear from
you, their constituents. Please ask
them to support the Ohio Medical Marijuana Act.
Brandy Zink, LMT
Executive Director
Ohio Patient Action Network
bzink@ohiopatient.net |
