The debate on whether or not to legalize medical marijuana in the state of Iowa continues.

A bill to make use of the substance for approved medical purposes was introduced in the Iowa Senate this session but even supporters say it’s unlikely to advance this year.

District 10 Senator Jake Chapman says while he sympathizes for those who struggle with various diseases and disorders, he’s cautious about changing this state law.

“We still have a federal law in place, and it’s always concerning when a state decides to pass laws contradictory to federal law.  Eric Holder, the Attorney General is not going to be the attorney general forever, and what kind of position will that put Iowa in if we do have a new attorney general down the road and they say we are going to enforce the federal law which is a complete ban on marijuana” says Chapman.

Chapman says he’s also concerned with the lack of regulation involved with legalization.

“Where are these seeds coming from?  How do you know that the potency is the proper amount for the medication?  You know, we have a process in place that tests that, I believe the FDA is doing some testing right now.  I think that the smart way to go is to have them do the testing, allow the distribution to go through a regulated system, rather than just having a free-for-all when it comes to marijuana.”

Governor Terry Branstad has also expressed his concern with the legalization of medical marijuana, saying he worries drug abuse would increase in Iowa.