MEDICAL MARIJUANA RULING IS CONFUSING

New Mexico Should Fight For Health Issues

While the U.S. Supreme Court's mildly surprising 8-0 vote Monday in
opposition to medical marijuana was a blow to individuals suffering
from debilitating and painful illnesses, the door remains open that
states might maintain the right to provide marijuana for such a
purpose.

The decision was a confusing array of contrasts. The court, as is its
recent history, was hesitant to negate states' rights, even in this
particular case. However, the distribution of marijuana violates
federal law.

Ultimately, it will be up to Congress to clarify the legality of
medical marijuana.

In the meantime, states should continue to research the viability of
medical marijuana as a means to alleviate the suffering of
individuals with such diseases as cancer and AIDS.

New Mexico is one of as many as nine states that has approved medical
marijuana initiatives. The New Mexico Legislature approved the
Controlled Substances Therapeutic Research Act in 1978, but the
legislation has largely been unfunded for 20 years.

New Mexico Gov. Gary Johnson pushed for medical marijuana legislation
as part of his drug-reform package in the last legislative session.
The bill failed, primarily due to corresponding legislation that
included drug legalization and lessening penalties for illegal drug
use.

Lawmakers should recognize the distinct difference between medical
marijuana and the use of illegal drugs.

According to the New Mexico act, a medical marijuana program would be
administered by the state Department of Health and only licensed
physicians would be permitted to provide medical marijuana. A patient
qualification review board also would oversee the program.

State Sen. Stuart Ingle, R-Portales, is unsure if and how New
Mexico's medical marijuana program, which has never been enacted to a
significant degree, would be affected by the recent court decision.

Additional research and experimentation into the use of medical
marijuana, which the Supreme Court approved on a federally funded
program of 200 people, is the next step toward providing potential
relief for those suffering from illness.

Drug abuse is a primary problem plaguing society.

The damaging effects are widespread, from death and additional crimes
to wrecked families. With the proper research of medical marijuana
and state programs committed to health issues, the objectives of
relief and law can be achieved.