PROVIDE RELIEF FROM PAIN

The state Senate Monday gave the terminally and chronically ill hope
for some relief from their suffering by advancing a bill that would
make it legal for them to smoke marijuana. The Assembly should follow
the Senate's lead.

The legislation would allow patients with certain diseases or those
suffering the debilitating effects of chemotherapy to have six
marijuana plants grown for them at an authorized treatment center or
in their own homes.

Most of those who opposed the legislation expressed concern it would
promote illegal drug use or distribution, a fear not borne out by the
experiences in the 13 states that allow medicinal use of marijuana.
The goal of the bill is simply to protect from prosecution by state
and local authorities those who are seeking relief from perpetual pain.

The Assembly should not cave to pressure from those who view the bill
as a gateway to legalizing wanton recreational drug use. Prescription
drugs, many with far greater potential for abuse, now are managed
under state laws. Medical marijuana can and should be managed in the same way.

Polls taken in New Jersey show overwhelming support for legalizing
medical marijuana. With Gov. Jon Corzine poised to sign the bill into
law, Assembly members should see to it that New Jersey becomes the
14th state in the union to show compassion for its residents
suffering from chronic pain.