Pubdate: Sat, 05 Jan 2002
Source: Capital Times, The  (WI)
Copyright: 2002 The Capital Times
Contact:  http://www.thecapitaltimes.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/73
Author: Gary Storck
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/mmj.htm (Cannabis - Medicinal)

KEEPING POT ILLEGAL DENIES MEDICINE FOR SICK

There is really no doubt that marijuana has medicinal properties. Anyone 
who says it doesn't is, no pun intended, blowing smoke. So why is it 
illegal? Should the government really be in the business of promoting 
suffering?

Simply put, every day that the medicinal use of marijuana remains illegal 
is another day that medicine is withheld from the sick and dying. We 
wouldn't wish unnecessary suffering on ourselves or family and friends. Why 
should this medicine be denied to any patient who can benefit?

Politics and culture have driven this irrational fear of a God-given herb 
for far too long. Now that we are into the 21st century, it's time for 
science to be the determining factor rather than discredited reefer madness 
myths.

2002 finds the Wisconsin Legislature ready to take up this issue. In the 
past few weeks, newspapers from communities as diverse as Eau Claire, 
Beloit and Racine have editorialized in favor of legalizing this therapy. 
None have editorialized against. Decades of opinion polling have 
consistently found 70% or more of Americans support legal access.

Medical marijuana is something the people want. The legislature should move 
swiftly to end this medieval prohibition that forces our sick and dying 
neighbors to either break the law or suffer needlessly.

Please contact your legislators and voice your support for this critical 
public health issue.

Gary Storck

Madison
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MAP posted-by: Beth