On the agenda: When they return for their next legislative session, state lawmakers will again debate whether to allow medical marijuana to be dispensed in Louisiana. The Associated Press reports Baton Rouge Rep. Dalton Honore, a Democrat, has pre-filed the legislation for consideration in the regular session that begins April 13. Sheriffs and district attorneys successfully stonewalled efforts last year to allow medical marijuana for people with serious illnesses. But supporters of the idea hope to change minds and set up guidelines allowing for the prescriptions. Louisiana legalized medical marijuana in 1991 for people with certain conditions, and the state health department issued regulations a year later allowing doctors to prescribe the drug. But rules were not set up for dispensaries, so no prescriptions have been issued.
Mind games: New Orleans Saints and Pelicans owner Tom Benson must undergo a psychiatric examination, a judge ruled today as Benson’s spurned daughter and her children fought to have the 87-year-old billionaire declared incapable of handling his affairs. Civil District Judge Kern Reese ruled in a lawsuit filed by Benson’s daughter, Renee, and her children, Rita and Ryan LeBlanc, that the examination must be complete by March 13. Each side in the case will choose one expert, and the two sides will agree upon a third. The lawsuit raises questions about Benson’s mental and physical health and alleges that Gayle Benson—whom he married 10 years ago and recently transferred ownership of the professional sports franchises to—has “systematically isolated” him from family, friends and advisers. The Associated Press has the full story.
Naming names: Kentucky Sen. Rand Paul, a likely 2016 presidential candidate, has endorsed Sen. David Vitter for Louisiana governor, potentially giving him a boost with Tea Party supporters. In a fundraising email sent today, Paul calls Vitter a “stalwart supporter of limited government, states’ rights and the taxpayer’s best interest.” Paul is a favorite among Tea Party activists and won his 2010 race in Kentucky with their support. “David Vitter will bring confidence, knowledge and experience to the governor’s seat,” Paul says, noting they have worked together on issues such as balancing the budget, immigration and auditing the Federal Reserve—all favorites issues among Tea Party advocates. USA Today has the full story.
Editor’s note: Columnist Tom Cook is off this week.
