MORE THAN 250 RHODE ISLANDERS REGISTER FOR MEDICAL MARIJUANA

PROVIDENCE, R.I. --More than 250 Rhode Islanders are now permitted to
possess small amounts of marijuana under the state's medical marijuana
program, according to health authorities.

Rhode Island in January became the 11th state to legalize marijuana
for medicinal purposes, and patients and caregivers began registering
in April.

To enroll, patients need documentation from a doctor saying they have
one of several chronic illnesses, such as cancer or AIDS, and that the
benefits of marijuana use outweigh the risks.

Charles Alexandre, chief of health professions regulation, said state
authorities initially guessed about 1,500 people would register with
the Department of Health. But the actual numbers have been much lower.

Health officials say 131 patients have received cards allowing them to
possess 12 marijuana plants or 2.5 ounces of the drug. An additional
129 caregivers have also registered, allowing them to supply up to
five registered patients with marijuana.

While the state authorized limited possession for medical purposes,
the law doesn't say how patients can buy the drug. Possessing
marijuana remains illegal under federal law.