Last week, Logansport High School hosted Advanced Manufacturing Night for area students, parents and employers. It’s important to connect current students with potential employers early, especially since there is a growing emphasis on vocational skills and education, which many high schools offer. It is also essential to develop and promote workforce development and education programs statewide. I want to commend LHS for educating our community on career options and sponsoring the event.
This week, state lawmakers reached the committee report deadline, so any bill that did not receive a hearing will have to wait until next year. The House saw a number of bills make significant progress. House Bill 1003, which would consolidate and streamline state agency reporting requirements and improve government efficiency, advanced to the Senate. Next week, I look forward to considering HB 1002, which would restructure the state’s workforce programs. It’s our hope this bill provides more hardworking Hoosiers with skills and opportunities to connect with high-demand and high-paying jobs.
For the House Committee on Courts and Criminal Code hearing of my CBD oil bill, my good friend, Stan Williams, travelled from North Manchester to testify. This may seem insignificant since people testify on bills all the time. However, Stan has been diagnosed with ALS, a fatal condition also known as Lou Gehrig's disease. He uses a motorized wheelchair because his legs no longer function. Stan was the first to speak in favor of HB 1214, and his compelling testimony about the positive effects of CBD oil was overwhelming. Most in the room, and all of the representatives on the committee, were moved to tears by his powerful story. I want to thank Stan for sharing his story. His testimony was so convincing that the vote was unanimous to move the bill to the House floor.
This bill would legalize the use of CBD oil that has 0.3 percent or less THC and does not cause euphoria or intoxication. CBD oil is known for its ability to help many people in a variety of maladies including chronic pain, tremors, anxiety and much more. I am working on this bill to make CBD oil available like any other herbal supplement. As this bill continues to progress, your input and support would be appreciated.
It’s your state government, participate in it!
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State Rep. Bill Friend (R-Macy) represents House District 23,
which includes portions of Cass, Fulton and Miami counties.
A high-resolution photo of Friend can be downloaded by clicking here.
