101 APPLY FOR MICHIGAN MEDICAL MARIJUANA PROGRAM

LANSING -- A busload of prospective medical marijuana users and their
supporters descended on a state office building this morning, seeking
to be among the first to apply for permits under Michigan's new law
that permits marijuana use for certain conditions with a doctor's approval.

People associated with the Michigan Medical Marijuana Association
submitted about 50 applications. A new office in the Michigan
Department of Community Health plans to process the applications.

Greg Francisco, director of the marijuana association, said
supporters of the new law needed an opportunity to come together and celebrate.

At the end of the day, the department said in a statement that 85
applications were received Monday and 16 came in over the weekend,
for a total of 101.

Department spokesman James McCurtis Jr. said it will take two to
three weeks to process the applications.

Michigan voters legalized medical marijuana last year. Rules for the
program went into effect Saturday.

Patients can apply for a state-issued ID card to protect them from
arrest for growing and using marijuana to treat pain and other
symptoms stemming from ailments such as cancer and multiple
sclerosis. A doctor's recommendation is required.