DOING A SLOW BURN

Time to Extinguish Political Interference in Medical Process

Dear editor,

It is disturbing to read that Gov. Christine Gregoire has asked the
Department of Health to review its newly developed rules regarding
the amount medical marijuana patients may possess, apparently because
she simply didn't like them ("Medical marijuana: How much is enough?" 5/21).

Contrary to some assertions, law enforcement had ample opportunities
to give input as the guidelines were developed. Arguably, they've
already had too much input: Since when do we let cops with no medical
training determine medication dosages?

While no rule is perfect, the definition of a 60-day supply was
established after a careful and thorough process that put the
emphasis where it should be, on scientific data regarding actual patient needs.

Political interference in this process shocks the conscience and
should stop immediately.

Bruce Mirken

Director of Communications

Marijuana Policy Project

Washington, D.C.