Pubdate: Thu, 22 May 2008
Source: Seattle Times (WA)
Copyright: 2008 The Seattle Times Company
Contact:  http://www.seattletimes.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/409
Referenced: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v08/n516/a12.html
Author: Bruce Mirken

DOING A SLOW BURN

Time to Extinguish Political Interference in Medical Process

Dear editor,

It is disturbing to read that Gov. Christine Gregoire has asked the 
Department of Health to review its newly developed rules regarding 
the amount medical marijuana patients may possess, apparently because 
she simply didn't like them ("Medical marijuana: How much is enough?" 5/21).

Contrary to some assertions, law enforcement had ample opportunities 
to give input as the guidelines were developed. Arguably, they've 
already had too much input: Since when do we let cops with no medical 
training determine medication dosages?

While no rule is perfect, the definition of a 60-day supply was 
established after a careful and thorough process that put the 
emphasis where it should be, on scientific data regarding actual patient needs.

Political interference in this process shocks the conscience and 
should stop immediately.

Bruce Mirken

Director of Communications

Marijuana Policy Project

Washington, D.C.
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MAP posted-by: Richard Lake