Pubdate: Thu, 07 Jul 2011
Source: Blade, The (Toledo, OH)
Copyright: 2011 The Blade
Contact:  http://www.toledoblade.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/48
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/mmj.htm (Cannabis - Medicinal)

MARIJUANA AND THE LAW

Three years ago, Michigan voters overwhelmingly approved an 
initiative that authorized doctor-approved patients to use marijuana 
for medical reasons. There is considerable scientific evidence that 
carefully limited use of the drug relieves suffering from such 
diseases as cancer, glaucoma, and AIDS. Despite opposition from 
social conservatives, Michiganians were sympathetic.

Yet the law has created big administrative and legal problems since 
it took effect. A few unscrupulous doctors have been happy to certify 
(for a fee) just about anyone to use medical marijuana.

At the same time, there's is evidence that overzealous law 
enforcement officers may have hassled legitimate users, including a 
man who was hauled in because he was growing his plants in a chicken 
coop that lacks a roof. The law requires medical marijuana to be 
grown in an "enclosed, locked facility."

The law needs clarification, but achieving it may not be easy. 
Because it was approved by voters, state lawmakers would have to 
muster a three-fourths majority to enact any change in it.

Various bills are pending in the Legislature. But the best solution 
might be for lawmakers to draft a new ballot initiative that cleans 
up the problems in the current law, and submit it to voters.

One idea worth considering: Although certified users are allowed to 
cultivate as many as a dozen cannabis plants, there is still no legal 
way for them to get their initial supply.

It might make sense for the state to become the supplier of what is 
now a regulated prescription drug.

In any event, Michigan needs to take steps to clarify the rules 
sooner rather than later. As Gov. Rick Snyder has said, the 
Legislature has more urgent issues on its plate, and state police 
have better things to do than spend time checking medical 
marijuana-growing chicken coops to see whether they have roofs.
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom