On Monday, the Minnesota Department of Health added Alzheimer’s disease as a qualifying condition for medical cannabis. Senator Karin Housley (R-St. Marys Point), chairwoman of the Senate Family Care and Aging Committee, issued the following statement:

“Eight years ago, my mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. I understand the debilitating impact the disease can have on an individual – and recognize the lack of effective treatments available for treating the disease. Some research has suggested cannabis can help improve the mood, sleep, and behavior of those suffering from Alzheimer’s disease, and I am pleased the Department of Health has added Alzheimer’s disease to its list of qualifying conditions. Medical cannabis has proven to be an effective treatment for thousands of Minnesotans, and I am hopeful this will open the door for additional research on the efficacy of medical cannabis in treating Alzheimer’s disease and other illnesses.”

Senator Karin Housley, of St. Marys Point, is in her second term representing District 39, which includes Stillwater, Forest Lake, Lake Elmo, and other communities in Chisago and Washington counties. She serves as chairwoman of the Senate Family Care and Aging Committee.