ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) – This Fourth of July, some veterans are calling for expanded access to medical cannabis to help them cope with PTSD.

Veterans and physicians who work with medical cannabis say the medical cannabis can help one stay calm when they are triggered by loud noises, such as fireworks.

Right now, they are urging Georgia lawmakers to pass legislation for more access.

Veterans like Gary Herber, who suffers from PTSD, want their experiences and stories to make a difference. Herber told Atlanta News First the Fourth of July holiday is a high-trigger time for him after a combat tour in Afghanistan in 2009.

“Fourth of July is a time when we, especially we as veterans, should celebrate,” Herber said. “But it was also a time when it brings up a lot of memories of places and things that were out of my control.”

Elmore Alexander, a physician with US420doc who specializes in medical cannabis, said there is a need for expansion so they can get better products for their patients and more control for physicians.

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