Assemblymember Phil Steck (D-Colonie) announced that legislation he co-sponsored in the assembly to add Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) to the list of conditions allowed for medical marijuana prescriptions has been signed into law (Ch. 403 of 2017).

“PTSD is a terrible illness that impacts many veterans who have witnessed things we can’t imagine. But while this illness is typically associated with our military, it can impact anyone, especially police and firefighters, as well as victims of rape or domestic violence,” said Steck. “Medical marijuana has shown to be an effective treatment option that helps victims cope. This law is long overdue and I’m proud to have pushed for its passage.”

According to PTSD United, an advocacy group for victims of PTSD, it is estimated that at any given time, 8 percent of Americans will be suffering from PTSD.1 Additionally, according to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, up to 20 percent of veterans of Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom will develop PTSD at some point, while up to 30 percent of Vietnam War veterans will have developed PTSD.2

“There cannot be a stigma for victims of PTSD and we must allow for every option in treating them,” added Steck.

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