Pubdate: Tue,  8 May 2001
Source: Reno Gazette-Journal (NV)
Copyright: 2001 Reno Gazette-Journal
Contact:  http://www.mapinc.org/media/363
Website: http://www.rgj.com/
Author: Robert A. Thompson
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/ocbc.htm (Oakland Cannabis Court Case)

CASE CAN'T OVERTURN STATE MARIJUANA LAWS

In response to all the recent news coverage about the medical marijuana
Supreme Court's case heard on March 28, it's important to highlight that
the court's ruling cannot "overturn" state medical marijuana laws. The
U.S. vs. the Oakland cannabis buyer's cooperative is essentially limited
to federal distribution issues. This case does not question a state's
constitutional right to allow patients to grow, possess and use medical
marijuana under state law. Properly worded state laws can effectively
protect medical marijuana users who otherwise would be subject to
prosecution.

Our state legislators shouldn't misunderstand the narrow scope of this
case and forge ahead in drafting a sensible law that will allow sick
people access to this medicine and fulfill the mandate of the voters.

Robert A. Thompson, Reno
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MAP posted-by: Doc-Hawk