The Post's editorial opposing Amendment 20, which would allow
individuals with a debilitating condition to use medical marijuana,
fails to mention two crucial reasons why citizens should support this
ballot initiative.

First, many Coloradans already are using medical marijuana. They
needlessly face the threat of arrest and punishment on a regular basis.

Amendment 20 would give them pro tection under state law. As The Post
laments, it is unfortunate that many patients do not have a reliable
supply of medical marijuana and must purchase it on the black market.
But until we solve the supply issue, surely we shouldn't throw sick
people in jail, should we?

Second, the federal government has failed to deal with this issue in a
reasonable manner, despite evidence that marijuana has medical
benefits. That is the main reason this issue is now before the
citizens of Colorado.

Despite federal intransigence on this issue, almost 99 percent of
marijuana arrests are made by state and local officials. Therefore,
Amendment 20 will provide effective protection for Colorado patients
who need to use medical marijuana.

Additionally, a registry system maintained by the state health
department will separate patients from recreational users, thus easing
the burden on law enforcement.

RICHARD SCHMITZ,
Washington, D.C.

Note: Richard Schmitz is director of state policies for the Marijuana
Policy Project.