Pubdate: Mon, 20 Jan 2003
Source: Marshfield News-Herald, The (WI)
Copyright: 2003 Gannett Wisconsin Newspapers
Contact:  http://www.marshfieldnewsherald.com
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/2236
Author: Gary Storck

POLL FINDS MAJORITY FAVORS POT LEGALIZATION

Editor: Regarding your Jan. 5 editorial, "Accepting applications for 
Shibilski's replacement," the new state senator should have the integrity, 
courage and compassion to take the initiative to lead the legislature to 
work to pass a state medical marijuana bill in both chambers and send it to 
Gov. Doyle for his signature.

Political game playing in the last legislative session doomed legislation 
that would have protected sick and dying Wisconsinites from arrest and jail 
for using medicinal pot to ease their suffering. The bill was snuffed 
despite a poll finding over 80 percent of Wisconsinites support legalizing 
medical marijuana. A new bill is expected to be introduced soon in the 
Assembly.

Too many legislators act like even medical marijuana is a stretch, when 
they should have the mercy to consider that accidental or serious illness 
can strike anyone at any time, and if it does, every option ought to be on 
the table.

A state senator who puts science ahead of politics and who understands that 
cannabis is a natural, safe and effective treatment option would be the 
ideal replacement for Shibilski. Hopefully a candidate with these qualities 
will be on the ballot.

Gary Storck

Madison
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MAP posted-by: Alex