Victorian MPs and Cannabis Advocates Push for Fair Driving Laws
The coalition is advocating for a legal defense for unimpaired drivers who are prescribed medicinal cannabis and test positive in roadside drug tests.
MPs David Ettershank and Rachel Payne have joined forces with tradespeople and parents to campaign for fairer driving laws. The campaign comes as the state government prepares to launch a $4.9 million medicinal cannabis driving trial.
The coalition is advocating for a legal defense for unimpaired drivers who are prescribed medicinal cannabis and test positive in roadside drug tests. This defense would be similar to the one already in place in Tasmania, where medical cannabis prescription holders don't lose their license if they're found to be unimpaired, despite having traces of cannabinoids in their system.
Key campaign activities planned for July include:
- A public action day to educate Victorians about the current drug testing system
- A social media campaign featuring testimonials from affected drivers
- Billboard advertisements on major roads
MP Rachel Payne highlighted that current roadside drug tests don't determine impairment but merely detect the presence of THC, which can remain in the body long after the effects have worn off. This has led to many unimpaired drivers losing their licenses, despite using their medication as prescribed.
The Legalise Cannabis party plans to debate a motion on medicinal cannabis driving laws in the Upper House on July 31, pushing for the implementation of a legal defense.
The campaign has gained support from the Australian Lawyers Alliance. Greg Barns SC, a spokesperson for the organization, described the current law as "cruel," noting that it disproportionately affects rural residents and has led some patients to return to more addictive medications to avoid losing their licenses.
With over a million medicinal cannabis prescriptions issued in Australia, this campaign represents a crucial step towards aligning driving laws with the growing acceptance and use of medicinal cannabis. The outcome of this campaign and the subsequent trial could have far-reaching implications for cannabis patients and policy across the country.
