2018/05/09 Council Agenda Packet

Dr. Sanjay Gupta of CNN (article provided). Research experts have also found that"states that allow the use of cannabis for medical purposes had 2.21 million fewer daily doses of opioids prescribed per year under Medical Part D", and the number of"Fentanyl prescriptions under Medicare Part D also dropped by 8.5%in states that had enacted medical cannabis laws", (CNN,Marijuana Legalization Could Help Offset Opioid Epidemic, Studies Find, 2018). According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, marijuana use"has been shown to be effective in treating chronic pain as well as other conditions such as seizures,multiple sclerosis and certain mental disorders", (CNN,Marijuana Legalization Could Help Offset Opioid Epidemic, Studies Find, 2018). While it may be too early to claim marijuana as the alternative to opioids, there is enough evidence showing cannabis as a possible substitute. The market must be afforded the freedom to benefit from increased competition. The community itself deserves the direct and demonstrable effect that lifting this burdensome ban has levied to date --the creation of more jobs and revenue for this community. We welcome any questions and urge your support in favor of increasing the number of recreational stores allowed to operate in the City of Everett. Respectfully,