Senator Fitzgerald’s district shows support for marijuana
Northern Wisconsin NORML Executive Director Jay Selthofner has had many visits with Senator Scott Fitzgerald’s office over the course of the 2009-2010 Legislation session. Prior to visiting the offices of legislators in Madison, he had spent some time in the district informing citizens of Assembly Bill 554 and Senate Bill 368 concerning medical marijuana.
The Senate District 13 of Scott Fitzgerald and Assembly Districts 37, 38 and 39 are obviously no different than the rest of Wisconsin, they support Marijuana Reform.
According to an open records report requested by IMMLY and Madison NORML, the support was astonishing and the opposition was not found. Of the 191 letters of support the Senator received, many of the letters were pre-written letters distributed by Selthofner and others in the area. Selthofner stated “when I saw the amount of letters overall, I was very happy. When I saw a mention of one supporter that really stuck out in my mind, well that just thrilled me.” Selthofner went on to say, “I hope those folks who signed that letter also followed up with a phone call and email to their legislators. Although the form letter is great, I usually had the supporter write a personal note. Most did and I remind everyone that repeated contact with our elected officials are needed.”
There were no phone logs included as requested, but there were 191 pages, mostly copies of pre-written letters, all in support. There was nothing in the file expressing opposition. 100% support.
Here are a few highlights:
“I urge you to be a Progressive Republican and represent Wisconsin tradition. Forward!” -R.C., Lake Mills constituent in note supporting the JRMMA.
“Marijuana is very helpful to people with ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease and irritable bowel syndrome. It is also helpful for people with anxiety disorders and many other illnesses. Legalizing marijuana for (at least) medical purposes is ling overdue. I hope that you will support this bill.” – D.T., RN, Oconomowoc.
There was a letter from an amputee stating that cannabis relieved his phantom limb pain that other medications did not touch. There was a letter from a constituent who is a doctor, in support of passage.
“I have panic attacks and become very sick because of my nerves. I don’t want to have a record because I am using a natural way to heal my symptoms.” – S.D., Watertown, who added she had recently been arrested for cannabis.
