Like so many of our fellow Americans on this Veteran’s Day, we’re thinking about our U.S. veterans and the sacrifices they (and their families) made for our country. Veterans coping with PTSD and other physical and mental health challenges have long relied on medical cannabis as part of their health and wellness regimen, yet access to this proven treatment is still more limited than it should be given the documented efficacy and safety.
While some form of access to medical cannabis exists in 48 states and 5 territories, 13 states only allow low-THC or CBD. Two states (we’re looking at you Idaho and Nebraska!) prohibit access entirely. Also, are we the only people who see the irony in this situation? Namely that those who voluntarily joined the U.S. Armed Forces and fought for the freedoms we all enjoy are forced to violate their country’s federal law in seeking treatment.
In honor of those who served – and to inspire everyone to continue the fight for access – we want to highlight some top-level facts & figures and give a shout-out to several organizations who are doing the hard work of advocacy. Please show your support for these organizations by volunteering or making a financial pledge. Not only do our veterans deserve it, but our entire nation benefits.
Veterans Initiative 22
Veterans Initiative 22 is a 501(c)(3) Federally approved non-profit organization that focuses on helping Veterans, Families, and First Responders by providing resources, employment opportunities, and continuously advocating for rights and access to affordable cannabis. VI 22 was named as such for a reminder to the estimated 22 Veterans who commit suicide daily due to PTSD alone
Balanced Veterans Network
The mission of BVN is to create a safe space for the education, advocacy, and empowerment of alternative therapies for veterans. We partner with professionals, businesses, and other organizations to support veterans and their families to live a better, more balanced life.
The Council for Federal Cannabis Regulation
The mission of CFCR is to legitimize cannabis by assisting the federal government, its regulatory agencies, and industry to rethink, develop, and implement evidence-based cannabis regulations. We do this by bringing together the stakeholders of the cannabis industry and the federal government to create a safe and accessible marketplace.
Americans for Safe Access
The mission of ASA is to ensure safe and legal access to cannabis (marijuana) for therapeutic use and research.
U.S. Cannabis Council
USCC’s mission is to build a future of legal access to cannabis delivered through an equitable and values-driven industry by advancing cannabis legalization at the federal and state level and promoting restorative justice for communities harmed by cannabis prohibition.