Pubdate: Tue, 29 May 2001
Source: Austin American-Statesman (TX)
Copyright: 2001 Austin American-Statesman
Contact:  http://www.austin360.com/statesman/editions/today/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/32
Authors: Tracey Hayes and Brian Parrett

RECLASSIFY MARIJUANA

The May 15 article "Justices strike down medical marijuana" ignored the 
legal context for the inevitable decision. This ruling has no bearing on 
the cultivation and use of marijuana in states that have passed medical 
marijuana laws. This decision does not prohibit states from adopting 
similar medical marijuana legislation, but merely denies the distribution 
of Schedule I controlled substances.

The Controlled Substances Act of 1970 established five "schedules," into 
which all illicit and prescription drugs were placed. Marijuana was placed 
in Schedule I, which defines the substance as having a high potential for 
abuse and no accepted medical use in the United States.

Until marijuana is reclassified as a Schedule 2 controlled substance, our 
Supreme Court will be forced to oppose the distribution of medical marijuana.

Tracey Hayes and Brian Parrett
Co-Directors
Texas Network of Reform Groups
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MAP posted-by: Beth