GOP-led House backs medical marijuana repeal

GOP-led House backs medical marijuana repeal

MATT GOURAS, Associated Press

HELENA — The Republican-led House is backing full repeal of the state's medical marijuana law, arguing it is time to undo the 2004 ballot initiative.

House Speaker Mike Milburn argues the industry has gone far beyond what voters envisioned and can't be reined in. He says the medical marijuana law has led to an abundance of the drug and an illegal trade that has moved beyond state borders and is attracting a criminal element.

Democrats opposing the measure argue lawmakers should instead heavily regulate the industry, and leave it to voters if they want to repeal their own initiative.

It faces one more largely procedural House vote.

Full repeal of the law is expected to face a tougher road in the Senate, where some Republicans are backing the alternative of strict regulation.

HELENA — The Republican-led House is backing full repeal of the state's medical marijuana law, arguing it is time to undo the 2004 ballot initiative.

House Speaker Mike Milburn argues the industry has gone far beyond what voters envisioned and can't be reined in. He says the medical marijuana law has led to an abundance of the drug and an illegal trade that has moved beyond state borders and is attracting a criminal element.

Rep. Kris Hansen, R-Havre, and Rep. Wendy Warburton, R-Havre, voted to repeal. Rep. Tony Belcourt, D-Box Elder, voted against repeal.

Democrats opposing the measure argue lawmakers should instead heavily regulate the industry, and leave it to voters if they want to repeal their own initiative.

It faces one more largely procedural House vote.

Full repeal of the law is expected to face a tougher road in the Senate, where some Republicans are backing the alternative of strict regulation.