SOME POT USE WILL BE LEGAL IN DETROIT, BUT LITTLE ELSE CHANGES

Detroit voters said yes to marijuana for medical purposes at the polls on
Tuesday, and now, some are wondering how soon they can light up.

But before you do, there are a few things to know about the measure, which
only changes the Detroit city code:

QUESTION: When does the new ordinance take effect?

ANSWER: The city's law department says the ballot initiative will take
effect 30 days after the Wayne County Board of Canvassers certifies the
results of the election, which could take at least another week.

Q: Does the proposal give pot smokers a free ride in Detroit?

A: No. Detroit residents voted to change the city code as it relates to the
use of marijuana for medical purposes only.

It is still illegal in Detroit to drive under the influence of any
controlled substance. And the ordinance does not affect state and federal
law, which make the drug illegal.That means Detroit police and county,
state and federal officers can still arrest anyone for marijuana possession.

Q: Most marijuana possession cases are handled by Detroit police who
arrested people under the city ordinance. Will officers now start enforcing
the state law?

A: Glen Woods, a spokesman for the Detroit Police Department, said officers
will continue to enforce the laws as they always did. Anyone who has valid
proof that they use marijuana as medicine probably will not be arrested, he
said.

Q: What proof do you need to be exempt for medical marijuana?

A: The ordinance does not specify. Tim Beck, head of the Detroit Coalition
for Compassionate Care, the group that pushed for the ballot proposal, said
those who use marijuana for medical purposes would need a doctor's letter
that states they are under the care of a physician who recommends the use
of marijuana for the relief of a specific illness.

Q: Who can prescribe medical marijuana?

A: No one. Federal and state law prohibit physicians from prescribing an
illegal substance. The Detroit proposal allows licensed medical
professionals -- ranging from physicians and dentists to veterinarians,
marriage counselors and social workers -- to recommend medical marijuana.
Beck said only health care professionals with a license to prescribe drugs
can recommend marijuana.

Q: Will anyone challenge the proposal?

A: The city and state Attorney General's Office are reviewing the measure
to see whether court action is needed. The city may consider going to court
to clarify portions of the proposal.

Q: Is this the last we'll hear about medical marijuana?

A: No. Ann Arbor will vote on a proposal in November. Advocates say they
also want state legislators to introduce a similar bill. If that fails,
they will push for a statewide referendum.