LAWMAKERS DEBATE LEGALIZING MEDICAL MARIJUANA

Multiple sclerosis patients and others urged state lawmakers today to
legalize the use of marijuana in New Jersey to ease suffering, but
others warned the practice could spur more drug abuse.

"We all are living proof that this is effective. This is common
sense," said Scott Ward of Robbinsville, a multiple sclerosis (MS)
patient and former Marine who said minimal daily use of marijuana has
made drastic improvements in his qualify of life.

Ward was one of several advocates who testified before the Assembly
Health and Senior Services Committee. They spoke in favor of a bill
(A-804) that would given special legal protection to victims of
serious illness who smoke marijuana to ease their pain or symptoms.

The committee did not vote on the issue -- it was the first
legislative hearing ever on the subject -- and Assemblyman Reed
Gusciora (D-Mercer) said he will consider changes and consult with
Assembly leaders before deciding his next step.

"This doesn't make marijuana rampant in society," said Gusciora, who
is also a municipal prosecutor. "Medical marijuana should be a last
resort when all other drugs do not work."

Twelve states have legalized the practice, while two others have
reduced criminal penalties. The federal government still considers
marijuana use a crime even in those 14 states, but the assemblyman
said most federal prosecutions involve major pushers.

David Evans, a Flemington attorney and a cancer survivor who once
endorsed the practice, said he now believes the medicinal use
movement is a front for groups who want broader legalization of marijuana.

"You might do more harm by passing this bill than by not passing this
bill," he said.

A representative of the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug
Dependence-New Jersey also voiced concern, saying the Food and Drug
Administration has refused to approve the practice, because officials
there remained dubious about health benefits and fearful of potential
for abuse.

"Allowing marijuana to be used for medical purposes will lead to
increased access and perceived availability to those that are not
authorized to use it," said Candice Singer.