Pubdate: Thu, 06 Apr 2006
Source: New York Times (NY)
Section: National Briefing
Copyright: 2006 The New York Times Company
Contact:  http://www.nytimes.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/298
Section: National Briefing
Author: Katie Zezima
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/mmj.htm (Marijuana - Medicinal)

RHODE ISLAND:

APPLICATIONS FOR MEDICAL MARIJUANA

Chronically ill patients who want to use medicinal marijuana began 
submitting applications under a new state law. In January, Rhode 
Island became the first state to sanction the use of medical 
marijuana since the Supreme Court ruled that the authorities could 
prosecute marijuana users, even in states that allow it to be used 
medicinally. Four people submitted applications, and 51 others are 
being completed, said Maria Wah-Fitta, a spokeswoman for the Rhode 
Island Department of Health. The state has 30 days to verify with a 
physician that the patient is eligible for the program. A patient and 
a caretaker can possess up to 2.5 ounces of marijuana or up to 12 
plants. The patient and caretaker must carry cards that identify them 
as part of the program at all times. 
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MAP posted-by: Richard Lake