"We are elated with the overwhelming response to this very important
measure," said petitioner Dr. Rob Killian, MD/MPH of Tacoma, representing
Citizens for Drug Policy Reform. Killian is part of the growing movement of
doctors, educators, clergy, and law enforcement professionals who believe it
is time for a more effective, intelligent attack on drug abuse. "The growing
support for this movement shows that most people understand that we have to
attack the drug crisis with education and treatment not just fear and
punishment," Killian said. "We are absolutely confident that Initiative 685
will qualify for the November ballot, and that the citizens of Washington
will agree that drug abuse is first and foremost a public health crisis, and
should be dealt with as such."

I685, the Drug Medicalization and Prevention Act of 1997 would not legalize
or allow distribution of any drug. It would require any person convicted of
a violent crime under the influence of illegal drugs to serve their full
sentence; allow judges, at their discretion, to parole and/or mandate drug
treatment for anyone convicted of simple drug possession or use; and provide
funding for a parent's commission on drug abuse prevention programs for
youth.

I685 would also help ease the pain and suffering of people with serious
conditions, such as those undergoing chemotherapy, for whom marijuana or
other drugs have demonstrated medical benefit. Because federal law prohibits
it, doctors still would not be allowed to legally prescribe medical marijuana
for these patients. Under provisions of I685, a doctor with a concurring
opinion from a second physician may advise such patients that drugs with
established medical benefit, including marijuana, may help relieve their
symptoms.

"Initiative 685 ensures that decisions about how to deal with serious illness
are made by individuals and their doctors, not by politicians or
bureaucrats," said Killian.

Citizens for Drug Policy Reform will defer further comment on the measure
until it qualifies for the ballot. A news conference will be scheduled at
that time.

SOURCE Citizens for Drug Policy Reform

CO: Citizens for Drug Policy Reform

ST: Washington

IN: HEA

SU:

07/03/97 17:03 EDT http://www.prnewswire.com