POLL SHOWS SUPPORT FOR MEDICAL MARIJUANA

Nearly four in five New Mexicans support Gov. Gary Johnson's proposal to
legalize the medical use of marijuana, according to a poll released
Saturday by a group backing drug-law changes.

The poll was commissioned by the Lindesmith Center-Drug Policy Foundation,
a research group that support Johnson's efforts to change drug laws.

The poll found that 78 percent of those surveyed either strongly supported
or somewhat supported the use of marijuana for medical purposes for
seriously ill or terminal patients, such as those suffering from cancer or
AIDS. Sixteen percent were opposed.

The poll also showed that strong majority -- 65 percent -- supported making
the possession of less than one ounce of marijuana a civil offense,
punishable like a speeding ticket.