Pubdate: Sat, 04 Jun 2011
Source: Las Vegas Sun (NV)
Copyright: 2011 Las Vegas Sun, Inc
Contact:  http://www.lasvegassun.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/234
Author: Cy Ryan
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/mmj.htm (Cannabis - Medicinal)

LAWMAKERS WEIGH BILL TO CREATE MEDICAL MARIJUANA PILOT PROGRAM

CARSON CITY -- A bill that would start a pilot program to allow 
medical marijuana card-holders to legally purchase the drug is being 
pushed in the Legislature.

Sen. Mike Schneider, D-Las Vegas, said the bill "would eliminate the 
head shops" that are illegally selling marijuana. Those with a valid 
registry identification card to use marijuana for medical purposes 
face felony charges when purchasing it on the street, he said.

Senate Bill 336 would set up a company or facility to grow, warehouse 
and distribute marijuana under the direction of the state Board of Pharmacy.

Rebecca Gasca, of the American Civil Liberties Union, said the state 
has neglected its responsibility since the medical marijuana program 
was approved in the Nevada Constitution 10 years ago.

This bill, she said, "could help the patient to have better access to 
medication."

Schneider told the Senate Finance Committee there are safeguards in 
the program. Doctors, he said, would have to take instruction on the 
medical benefits of marijuana.

He said he has worked with the U.S. Attorney's Office in putting the 
bill together. Under the bill, the state Agriculture Department would 
oversee the process of growing the marijuana.

The pilot program would also mean extra tax money for the state when 
the drug is sold legally. The committee didn't take action on the bill.
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