Pubdate: Fri, 06 Jan 2012 Source: Opelika-Auburn News (AL) Copyright: 2012 Media General, Inc. Contact: http://www.oanow.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/3169 Author: Evan Haarbauer MEDICAL MARIJUANA SHOULD BE LEGALIZED IN ALABAMA Why are so many states interested in medical marijuana? As the Alabama Medical Marijuana Coalition (AMMJC) says: "Marijuana is medicine, and it always has been." As 16 states have initiated legislation, there is a surge of interest in medicinal marijuana and the science of the endocannabinoid system. Alabamians are joining the coalition to support a medical marijuana bill that is sponsored by Rep. K.L. Brown, R-Jacksonville, and could pass in 2012. The Alabama Medical Marijuana Patients Rights Act is comprehensive legislation that would allow medical use of marijuana by verified patients. Many have remained silent regarding the therapeutic uses of the plant. Many are not aware of how it can help debilitating illnesses or sick family members. Interested citizens have a right not to remain silent, and advocates may join organizations like the AMMJC, a nonprofit activist group based in Cullman. Find its website at www.ammjc.org or on www.facebook.com/alabama.mmjc. The coalition recommends becoming informed of its mission, writing state representatives, donating or purchasing items on sale, and spreading the word so people in need may benefit in a safe and legal way. Evan Haarbauer Vestavia Hills - --- MAP posted-by: Keith Brilhart