Pubdate: Mon, 18 May 2009
Source: News Herald (Willoughby, OH)
Copyright: 2009 The News-Herald
Contact:  http://www.news-herald.com
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/305

LET OHIOANS DECIDE MEDICAL MARIJUANA USE

An issue that has been slowly gained acceptance around  the country
now has gained notice in Ohio.

Supporters of medical marijuana usage want state  lawmakers to
consider the new evidence that could put  the issue before voters in
November.

The first one involves Michigan legalizing medical  marijuana. It
recently joined 12 other states that have  made it legal since 1996 -
Alaska, California,  Colorado, Hawaii, Maine, Montana, Nevada, New
Mexico,  Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont and Washington.

But advocates also want state lawmakers to consider  that a new poll
shows 73 percent of Ohioans favor its  legalization.

A poll is a snapshot in time, but the numbers are  staggering.
However, that isn't enough evidence of  support.

But, it's enough to show that voters should be called  upon to
determine if it should happen in Ohio.

It takes it out of the hands of state representatives  and senators
and puts the decision in the hands of the  state's residents.

Medical marijuana legalization has been gaining  popularity because
testimonials say it relieves  physical pain. Wright State University's
Department of  Medicine said marijuana has been found to improve
appetite and weight in cancer and Alzheimer's patients  and decrease
spasms in multiple sclerosis and spinal  injury patients.

Medical marijuana use is also being studied as a  treatment for
epilepsy and brain injuries.

If this issue hits the ballot, expect an aggressive  campaign.
Opponents will question the potential side  effects like panic
attacks, anxiety and a risk to the  lungs of users.

Let the debate begin. But, give Ohioans the last word. 
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MAP posted-by: Jo-D