TIME TO LEGALIZE MEDICAL MARIJUANA

With overwhelming support, Wisconsinites would be thrilled to read
this headline: "Governor signs medical marijuana bill, Wisconsin
becomes15th state to protect patients using medicinal cannabis."

Michigan became the 13th such state when voters passed Proposition 1
on Nov. 4.On Dec. 15, the New Jersey State Senate Health Committee
passed medical marijuana legislation by a 6-1 margin, sending it to
the full Senate for a vote. New Jersey Gov. Jon Corzine urged quick
passage.

With the change of leadership in the state Assembly, Wisconsin has
the potential to be next. Gov. Jim Doyle, who has stated he would
sign a bill if it reached his desk, should follow the lead of fellow
governors who urged legislators to act.

The Michigan state agency tasked with regulating their medical
marijuana program expects to begin certifying patients and caregivers
in April, meaning a Michigan resident with a qualifying medical
condition will be eligible to legally use medical cannabis with a
doctor's approval. A Wisconsinite with the same condition would still
be eligible only for arrest and jail.

One in four Americans now live in a state where medical marijuana is
legal. For the sake of state patients and families struggling with
serious illness, Wisconsin needs to join the club in 2009.

Gary Storck

Madison

Is My Medicine Legal YET?