MEDICAL MARIJUANA - IT'S ABOUT TIME

In saying patients testifying in support of medical marijuana are
somehow willing dupes of the National Organization for the Reform of
Marijuana Laws, isn't Capt. Charles Wood of the Wisconsin Narcotics
Officers Association really insinuating they are stupid (Opinions,
Dec. 21)? Gov. Jim Doyle has said he'd sign the bill if it reached his
desk. I can only imagine what Wood must think of him.

Are concerns about job security behind Wood's hurtful and
condescending attitude? Could he be worried if more people learn,
despite years of propaganda to the contrary, that cannabis is a safe
and effective medicine, it might spontaneously trigger full-scale
legalization?

Is this the best Wood has? Wisconsin patients have waited many years
for the Legislature to take a serious look at this issue. As one born
with a medical condition that has resulted in a lifetime of ill
health, I salute Rep. Mark Pocan (D-Madison) and Sen. Jon Erpenbach
(D-Waunakee) for listening and bringing forth the Jacki Rickert
Medical Marijuana Act.

Those who traffic in fear, like Wood and Rep. Leah Vukmir
(R-Wauwatosa), must not be allowed to obscure that this bill is really
about compassion. One hundred three people testified or registered in
support. Only five testified against. If democracy still matters, the
bill must be passed intact out of committee and sent for floor votes
without delay. Our seniors, vets, sick, disabled and dying and those
who care about them are counting on it.

Gary Storck

President

Wisconsin chapter

National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws

Madison