Grimes Joining Push to Legalize Medical Marijuana

Kentucky's Secretary of State is joining the efforts of others to legalize medical marijuana in Kentucky. 

Alison Lundergan Grimes is convening a task force in Frankfort next week to focus on a legislative proposal to legalize medical marijuana.    

In a statement on Wednesday, Grimes said, "Too many Kentuckians are suffering from debilitating physical and mental illnesses. Most have lived with the effects of these illnesses for years. We must do more to relieve their pain and suffering, and there is significant evidence that cannabis is beneficial for these individuals, especially veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress."

The task force will also study and propose potential implementation and regulation processes.

The group will include members of Kentucky's medical community, including doctors, nurses and medical administrators, as well as representatives from law enforcement and state agencies with regulatory oversight, medical marijuana advocates, and military veterans.

It will be co-chaired by Democratic Representative John Sims, who is crafting medical marijuana legislation for next year.