MEDICAL POT ISSUE FACES TEST IN DETROIT

Supporters of a controversial initiative on the ballot Tuesday in Detroit
that would legalize marijuana use for medical purposes are confident the
measure will pass. The proposal would create an exception in the city code
for patients who have a doctor's permission to use the drug.

Tim Beck, chairman of the Detroit Coalition for Compassionate Care, said he
knows passage of "Proposal M" wouldn't affect state and federal laws that
prohibit marijuana use and allow prosecution of those possessing or using
the drug, but he thinks it's an important first step.

"We feel it's reprehensible that authorities and the government would keep
medicine from people that need it," Mr. Beck said.

"I happened to be a medical marijuana user. I have a doctor's
recommendation and I know that means nothing here in Detroit."

He said studies have shown that marijuana helps people who have AIDS,
glaucoma, and certain types of anxiety disorders.

Voters in Ann Arbor face a similar ballot proposal in November, and if it
is approved in both cities Mr. Beck said medical marijuana supporters will
ask Michigan lawmakers to take action statewide.

In Ann Arbor, the final ballot language has not been approved.

"I'm very confident we are going to win," he said.

Bill Sanford, president and chief executive officer of the Compass
Corporation for Recovery Services in Toledo, isn't convinced the measure is
worthy of passage.

"I'm personally against it," he said. "It just opens the door and would
lead to more abuse, misuse, and easier access to the drug."

University of Toledo senior Chris Burnside, who founded the school's
National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws chapter, hopes to
bring a similar initiative to the ballot in Toledo.

"Of course I'm for it," Mr. Burnside said. "When it comes to patients'
rights, I think that they need more options than just what Pfizer
[pharmaceuticals] has to offer them . ."