Unlikely FL duo of Shalala and Gaetz want to clear path to medical marijuana research (9/13/19)
In a statement, Shalala's campaign said the candidate remains worried about the effect of marijuana on children — an issue that occupied much of her cannabis criticism as HHS secretary — but cited new research, public perception, and criminal justice statistics for her change in thinking on marijuana. The statement cited "strong evidence showing real medical benefits of marijuana when used properly,"
"Donna's thinking and understanding of marijuana has evolved, just as the general population's perspective and the science has evolved," the statement said. "She believes that we must reschedule cannabis to allow the government and the scientific community to work together to thoroughly study its effects and potential benefits. And, we must decriminalize cannabis because for far too long we have witnessed families and lives being destroyed over marijuana, especially individuals of color. We must follow the science and look at the facts."