Pubdate: Thu, 26 Feb 2009 Source: Asbury Park Press (NJ) Copyright: 2009 Asbury Park Press Contact: http://www.app.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/26 Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/decrim.htm (Decrim/Legalization) Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/mmj.htm (Cannabis - Medicinal) PROVIDE RELIEF FROM PAIN The state Senate Monday gave the terminally and chronically ill hope for some relief from their suffering by advancing a bill that would make it legal for them to smoke marijuana. The Assembly should follow the Senate's lead. The legislation would allow patients with certain diseases or those suffering the debilitating effects of chemotherapy to have six marijuana plants grown for them at an authorized treatment center or in their own homes. Most of those who opposed the legislation expressed concern it would promote illegal drug use or distribution, a fear not borne out by the experiences in the 13 states that allow medicinal use of marijuana. The goal of the bill is simply to protect from prosecution by state and local authorities those who are seeking relief from perpetual pain. The Assembly should not cave to pressure from those who view the bill as a gateway to legalizing wanton recreational drug use. Prescription drugs, many with far greater potential for abuse, now are managed under state laws. Medical marijuana can and should be managed in the same way. Polls taken in New Jersey show overwhelming support for legalizing medical marijuana. With Gov. Jon Corzine poised to sign the bill into law, Assembly members should see to it that New Jersey becomes the 14th state in the union to show compassion for its residents suffering from chronic pain. - --- MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom