California County's Plan Heightens Medical Marijuana Debate
Christopher Cook, Special to The Christian Science Monitor

SAN FRANCISCO A former San Francisco police officer wants cops to give
away the marijuana they confiscate in drug busts to the medically needy.

Michael Nevin, now a supervisor of San Mateo County just south of San
Francisco, is sparking statewide debate by proposing that his county
distribute seized dope to the seriously ill through publichealth agencies.

Even here in California, Mr. Nevin's idea is a leap into the unknown.
Although Golden State voters last year approved Proposition 215, enabling
physicians to prescribe marijuana for medicinal purposes, the measure did
not clarify how the voters last year approved Proposition 215, enabling
physicians to prescribe marijuana for medicinal purposes, the measure did
not clarify how the drug could be distributed to patients. Now, one year
after Prop. 215 was passed, Nevin's plan is forcing the first discussion on
how to implement this groundbreaking law.

"It's a practical dilemma for counties Prop. 215 suggests marijuana is
legal for medicinal purposes but doesn't allow for growing and
distribution," says Nevin. "We haven't had any statewide leadership on this
yet."