406 forum: Medical marijuana access in Montana

Montana is one of four states with medical marijuana on the ballot this November.

What’s your take on expanding access to medical marijuana in Montana?

Lindsay Douglas Big Sky, Montana

“I would really love to see a recreational initiative get on the ballot, but I’m definitely happy with any medical initiatives that will keep the medicine in the patients’ hands. Patients need that … What I definitely don’t want to see is pharmaceutical companies to get control of the plant because that could be deadly … Historically what they do is synthesize cannabis or try to isolate different cannabinoids … and not only do [synthesized cannabinoids] kill people, but they have different effects.”

Tayler Christopoulos Bozeman, Montana

“I think it’s safer than pharmaceuticals … I think they should tax the hell out of it and get [Montana] out of debt. Colorado and Washington got so much money out of taxing it.”

Robert Harned Manhattan, Montana

“Here’s the question … How does a [marijuana user’s] personal life overlap with their career? … How do I, as a business owner, put that guy behind the wheel? [If] there’s an accident and they’re tested [and marijuana shows up] it’s going to limit his options moving forward because of how it’s filed.”

Cassandra Green West Yellowstone, Montana

“I’m not 100 percent sure what’s happening, mostly because I’ve been gone for awhile. I think it should be more open, easier access. I know people who need it and now they can’t get it.”