Pubdate: Mon, 30 Apr 2012
Source: Daily News, The (Newburyport, MA)
Copyright: 2012 Eagle Tribune Publishing Company
Contact: http://drugsense.org/url/k3oQxseR
Website: http://www.newburyportnews.com
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/693

VOTE YES ON BALLOT QUESTIONS 1, 2 AND 3

Voters in the Nov. 6 election face an unusually broad swath of
political contests and ballot questions.

After reviewing the three statewide ballot questions - questions 1,
2 and 3 - we support passage of all three. Our philosophy on ballot
questions is that adults should be allowed to make reasonable
decisions that affect their health and life.

We feel that all three questions tackle difficult and timely issues
that society has grappled with, and that lawmakers have generally seen
fit to steer clear of.

That leaves it in the hands of voters to decide.

[snip]

Question 3 legalizes the use of marijuana for certain medical 
conditions. It would remove punishment under state law for everyone
from patients and physicians to dispensaries and personal caregivers for 
patients. This measure is largely opposed by law enforcement,
which views it as a means that can easily be abused and can create
a gateway to heavier drug use. No doubt there will be some people who 
will abuse the law.

But there are certainly many others who will find legitimate relief
from pain through the use of medical marijuana. This is a medical
option that, although controversial, has been proven effective for
many patients. Nearly half of the states in this nation have passed
laws allowing for the use of medical marijuana, including three of the
six New England states.
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MAP posted-by: Matt