Hastings electorate
Paul MERCURIO (Hastings) (14:44): (777) Eight years ago, in 2016, medicinal cannabis was legalised in Victoria thanks to the Andrews Labor government, and this year the Allan Labor government announced a world-first trial to study prescribed medicinal cannabis users driving on a dedicated track. My constituent question is to the Minister for Roads and Road Safety. Minister, what work is currently being undertaken to progress this trial? Many people from all walks of life suffer ongoing, consistent, chronic pain. The only thing that can alleviate that pain is medicinal cannabis. Many people who take medicinal cannabis have a genuine need to drive. The cruel irony of this is that, although it is a legally prescribed medication, if a chronic pain sufferer is pulled over for a roadside drug test and tests positive for THC, the consequences are severe, with fines and the loss of their licence. A loss of licence may impact their ability to keep their job, their income, their independence, their home and their hope. I look forward to hearing from the minister.