Pubdate: Tue, 07 Jan 2003 Source: Wausau Daily Herald (WI) Copyright: 2003 Wausau Daily Herald Contact: http://www.wausaudailyherald.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1321 Author: Gary Storck Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/mmj.htm (Cannabis - Medicinal) NEXT SENATOR SHOULD CONSIDER MARIJUANA BILL EDITOR: Regarding the Wausau Daily Herald's Jan. 5 editorial, "Accepting applications for Shibilski's replacement," the new state senator should have the integrity, courage and compassion to take the initiative and lead the Legislature to pass a state medical-marijuana-use bill to Gov. Jim Doyle for his signature. Political game-playing in the last legislative session doomed bills that would have protected sick and dying Wisconsin residents from arrest and jail for using medicinal pot to ease their suffering. The bill was snuffed despite a poll finding over 80 percent of state residents support legalizing medical marijuana use. A new bill is expected to be introduced soon in the Assembly. Too many legislators act like even medical use of marijuana is dangerous, when they should have mercy and consider that accidents or serious illness can strike anyone at any time, and if it does, every option for pain relief ought to be considered. A state senator who puts science ahead of politics and who understands that cannabis is a natural, safe and effective treatment option would be the ideal replacement for Kevin Shibilski. Hopefully a candidate with these qualities will be on the ballot. Gary Storck, Madison - --- MAP posted-by: Terry Liittschwager