A controversial proposal that would allow some chronically ill people to grow marijuana got an airing at the state Capitol Monday, but even its chief sponsor was uncertain whether the bill would get out of committee this year.

"I think it'll be a close vote," said state Rep. James W. Abrams, D-Meriden. The judiciary committee heard testimony Monday and will decide later this month whether to pass the bill on to the General Assembly for action.

Under a proposal that Abrams first brought forward last year, people who suffer from certain chronic or debilitating medical conditions, such as cancer or HIV, would be able to seek a physician's written certification to grow a quantity of marijuana deemed "reasonably necessary" to alleviate painful symptoms. Patients or their caregivers who receive such certifications would register with the Department of Public Safety.

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