New York State approves cannabis for post-traumatic stress victims

The Democratic-controlled New York State Assembly voted in Albany on a bill to allow the sale of medical cannabis to people suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder, in order to effectively treat their illness. The decision was approved by a vote of 101 to 6.

The National Center for Post-Traumatic Stress recognized that cannabidiol (CBD) is a good way to combat the disease. The bill's sponsor, Richard Gottfried, states that ’there is clear evidence that medical marijuana is effective in treating post-traumatic stress«. Former veterans are also advocating cannabis as an alternative to opioids. Currently in the state, medical cannabis can only be used to treat cancer and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).

It was at the end of March 2017 that New York State added post-traumatic stress disorder to the list of illnesses eligible for a cannabis prescription. People suffering from this syndrome will be able to obtain and consume it legally as long as they have a prescription from the attending physician and registration with the state in which they reside.

On the American site Spectrum News, Republican Congressman Andrew Raia said, «I think we should try to do everything we can to allow them to relieve their suffering and limit suicides.» The bill («Bill A 7006) was then sent from the Republican Senate directly to the Governor's office for review, so that the bill could be finally passed.

Following the passage of this bill, New York State is expected to legalize medicinal cannabis for people suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder. The law is expected to be extended to other US states, including Minnesota, Oregon, Maine, New Jersey, California, New Mexico and Connecticut.

Mehdi Bautier