Bipartisan congressional lawmakers in both chambers have filed resolutions condemning Russia for incarcerating a U.S. citizen over possession of medical marijuana that he obtained as a registered patient in Pennsylvania and used an an opioid alternative to treat pain. The legislation also calls on President Joe Biden’s federal government to step up efforts to secure his release.
The resolution says the 14-year sentence that Marc Fogel received after being convicted of “drug smuggling” over possession of a half-ounce of cannabis is politically motivated and disproportionate, especially when taking into account the fact that he was using marijuana for medical purposes in accordance with a doctor’s recommendation.
Reps. Chris Deluzio (D-PA) and Guy Reschenthaler, (R-PA), along with 13 other cosponsors, are leading the House version, while the Senate concurrent resolution is being led by Sens. Bob Casey (D-PA), Steve Daines (R-MT), John Fetterman (D-PA) and Jon Tester (D-MT).
“Marc Fogel has undergone three back surgeries, a spinal fusion, a hip replacement, and two knee surgeries to correct various injuries and health issues, which have left him with chronic back pain and a permanent limp,” the measure says. And he “did not wish to use opioids to manage his pain and was
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