The Post's editorial opposing Amendment 20, which would allow individuals with a debilitating condition to use medical marijuana, fails to mention two crucial reasons why citizens should support this ballot initiative. First, many Coloradans already are using medical marijuana. They needlessly face the threat of arrest and punishment on a regular basis. Amendment 20 would give them pro tection under state law. As The Post laments, it is unfortunate that many patients do not have a reliable supply of medical marijuana and must purchase it on the black market. But until we solve the supply issue, surely we shouldn't throw sick people in jail, should we? Second, the federal government has failed to deal with this issue in a reasonable manner, despite evidence that marijuana has medical benefits. That is the main reason this issue is now before the citizens of Colorado. Despite federal intransigence on this issue, almost 99 percent of marijuana arrests are made by state and local officials. Therefore, Amendment 20 will provide effective protection for Colorado patients who need to use medical marijuana. Additionally, a registry system maintained by the state health department will separate patients from recreational users, thus easing the burden on law enforcement. RICHARD SCHMITZ, Washington, D.C. Note: Richard Schmitz is director of state policies for the Marijuana Policy Project.
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