Pubdate: Tue, 6 Apr 2010
Source: Columbus Dispatch (OH)
Copyright: 2010 The Columbus Dispatch
Contact:  http://www.dispatch.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/93
Author: Alan Johnson
Cited: Drug Policy Alliance http://www.drugpolicy.org/
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/find?253 (Cannabis - Medicinal - United States)

BILL PROPOSES LEGALIZING MEDICAL MARIJUANA

Legislation to legalize dispensing, growing and using marijuana for 
medical purposes has been introduced in the Ohio House. Passage is 
unlikely, but if that happens, Ohio would become the 15th state to 
make medical marijuana legal.

The primary sponsor is Rep. Kenny Yuko, D-Richmond Heights, but there 
are five other sponsors. The Drug Policy Alliance in Ohio worked with 
Yuko in drafting the bill, which is similar to Senate Bill 343 from 
the last session but has significant changes, backers said.

Edward J. Orlett, a former state lawmaker who is Ohio representative 
for the California-based Drug Policy Alliance, said if the state 
doesn't pass the legislation, voters could take matters into their 
own hands. Michigan residents did that in passing a similar medical 
marijuana ballot issue in 2008.

Among other things, the bill would allow certified cardholders who 
verify they have debilitating medical conditions to grow marijuana 
plants. However, it would require them, when they are not at home, to 
keep the plants in a locked "room, greenhouse, garden or other 
enclosed area that is out of public view."
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