The Gaer family, residents of West Des Moines, Iowa, finds themselves in the midst of a contentious struggle to preserve access to hemp medicine for their daughter, Margaret. Margaret relies on Charlotte’s Web, a full-spectrum, non-psychoactive hemp product, to combat a rare form of epilepsy. However, a proposed amendment to the Iowa Hemp Act threatens to criminalize the purchase and consumption of this vital medication within the state.

A Lifeline Threatened: Impact of the Proposed Amendment

Under the proposed amendment, all hemp products in Iowa would be limited to containing only 10 milligrams of THC per container—a restriction significantly lower than what Charlotte’s Web offers. The Gaer family, alongside experts in the field, argue that the THC content in full-spectrum hemp products like Charlotte’s Web is effectively neutralized by their CBD content, with no accompanying intoxicating effects.

A Desperate Plea: Advocating for Access

Sally Gaer, speaking on behalf of her family’s plight, emphasizes the frustration of navigating the healthcare system to find effective treatments, only to face legislative barriers. The Gaers are joined by a chorus of voices urging Governor Kim Reynolds to veto the amendment, highlighting the critical importance of maintaining legal access to hemp-based therapies for Iowans in need.

Mobilizing Support: Industry and Advocates Unite

In a last-ditch effort to sway decision-makers, the hemp industry and its beneficiaries have launched a public relations campaign, spearheaded by Ryan Hanser’s firm, Hanser & Associates. Hanser underscores the fundamental nature of this issue, stressing that it’s not about recreational use but rather about legal therapeutic options that benefit individuals without causing harm.

Facing Uncertain Futures: Consequences of the Amendment

Should the proposed amendment be signed into law, manufacturers will withdraw their products from Iowa, leaving residents like the Gaers with no legal means to obtain their vital medication within the state. This potential scenario not only jeopardizes the health and well-being of individuals like Margaret but also exposes them to criminal penalties for seeking relief outside state lines.

A Call to Action: Advocating for Change

As the fate of the Iowa Hemp Act hangs in the balance, the Gaer family and countless others who rely on full-spectrum hemp medicines continue to plead with Governor Reynolds to veto the bill. Their impassioned pleas underscore the urgent need to prioritize the well-being of vulnerable individuals and ensure continued access to life-changing therapies.