May 22, 2018

WHAT ABOUT POT?

The Lawrence County Fiscal Court had a bit of a historic moment not that long ago when it voted ‘no’ to having a needle exchange program in the county for drug addicts. This stirred up quite the controversy among citizens, with the vast majority opposed to the initiative.

Either way, there were very strong opinions on both sides of the aisle. That brings me to another issue, closely related.

During this year’s legislative session, a number of representatives across the state came together to introduce HB 166, which would have effectively legalized medical marijuana in Kentucky. Though the bill was killed in committee, those lawmakers who sponsored the bill have vowed to try again during the 2019 legislative session. By that time, Lawrence County will have begun another term for the Judge/Executive.

Before going further, I think it is necessary to say that the Judge doesn’t typically have a vote on the fiscal court. He would vote if there were a tie, however, making the next Judge’s feelings on the matter of paramount importance.

So, why is that exactly?

Well, there was wording in HB 166 that suggested, if passed, local governments would be given a voice in whether or not their jurisdictions would allow the medical marijuana facilities, dubbed ‘compassion centers’. Moreover, what about those who would grow and supply the drug to these compassion centers? I can’t imagine this would be an easy decision to come to.

While there are undoubtedly many in Lawrence County opposed to providing the drug right here at home, there are various issues to consider.

To begin with, county residents would still be within their right to get the drug in other counties and bring it back to Lawrence. So, what about the money? We all know how poor the county is right now.

The potential revenue flow from private individuals could potentially be huge. And, just like Lawrence residents going elsewhere, a compassion center here could be used by non-residents of Lawrence County, bringing in an even larger flow of revenue.

What about the growers?

If they sold to compassion centers all over the state, what could that do for us here in the county? We need jobs and we need money. So, how would the next Judge/Executive handle this situation if, during the next legislative session, a similar bill (with similar rights given to local governments) were to be signed into law?

I’d love to hear what the candidates have to say on the matter when the Primary is decided and there are only two to choose from.