STATE REP. COHEN WILL PUSH PA. MEDICAL MARIJUANA BILL

State Rep. Mark Cohen of Philadelphia said yesterday he hoped to
introduce a bill next month to legalize the medical use of marijuana
in Pennsylvania.

"There is obviously no consensus on legalizing marijuana, but there
is a widespread consensus on legalizing medical marijuana," the
Democrat said. "I think there is a solid scientific case and there
is overwhelming popular support."

Cohen expects his bill to "emulate" legislation being considered by
New Jersey's Assembly after passage by the state Senate.

The New Jersey measure would let registered patients suffering from
cancer, multiple sclerosis and other illnesses grow marijuana plants
for medical use or buy the drug at a licensed center. Gov. Corzine
said he'd sign the bill.

Cohen, whose district is mostly in Northeast Philadelphia, expects
his bill not only to require prescriptions, but to set forth a plan
for regulating distribution and sales.

More study, including input from state officials, would be needed to
determine the best setup, whether that involves using existing state
stores and pharmacies or new providers.

"I think it can easily raise $25 million a year in taxes," said Cohen.

Next month, Michigan will join a dozen other states, including
California, that have legalized the medical use of marijuana.

In recent years, there has been little talk of such a move in the
Pennsylvania legislature.

Some physicians and patients say that other medications can be even
more dangerous, Cohen said.

"I'm aware of potential dangers that abuse can cause, but all
prescription drugs can also be abused," he said.