MEDICAL MARIJUANA SHOULD BE LEGALIZED IN ALABAMA

Why are so many states interested in medical marijuana? As the
Alabama Medical Marijuana Coalition (AMMJC) says: "Marijuana is
medicine, and it always has been."

As 16 states have initiated legislation, there is a surge of interest
in medicinal marijuana and the science of the endocannabinoid system.
Alabamians are joining the coalition to support a medical marijuana
bill that is sponsored by Rep. K.L. Brown, R-Jacksonville, and could
pass in 2012. The Alabama Medical Marijuana Patients Rights Act is
comprehensive legislation that would allow medical use of marijuana
by verified patients.

Many have remained silent regarding the therapeutic uses of the
plant. Many are not aware of how it can help debilitating illnesses
or sick family members. Interested citizens have a right not to
remain silent, and advocates may join organizations like the AMMJC, a
nonprofit activist group based in Cullman. Find its website at
www.ammjc.org or on www.facebook.com/alabama.mmjc.

The coalition recommends becoming informed of its mission, writing
state representatives, donating or purchasing items on sale, and
spreading the word so people in need may benefit in a safe and legal way.

Evan Haarbauer

Vestavia Hills