PAIN RELIEF NOT CRIMINAL

To the Editor:

Monday's Northwest Herald editorial, "Medical pot has tough test,"
raises questions regarding how patients would obtain medical marijuana.

This issue is carefully addressed in state Sen. John Cullerton's bill,
which would set up a state-regulated system with strict rules.

But while discussing the details of implementation, important as they
might be, it is important not to lose sight of the central question:
Should patients battling cancer, multiple sclerosis or AIDS using
medical marijuana on the advice of their physicians face arrest and
jail?

The American Public Health Association, Illinois Nurses Association
and the AIDS Foundation of Chicago, among many others, agree that such
patients should not face arrest.

Seeking relief from pain and nausea should not be a crime.

Bruce Mirken

Director of communications

Marijuana Policy Project

Washington, D.C.