HOUSE APPROVES EASING PENALTY FOR MEDICAL MARIJUANA

The Maryland House of Delegates approved a bill yesterday that would lessen
the penalty for sick people found with marijuana if they can prove they
possessed it for medical reasons.

In a 73-62 vote, the House passed what is called a "defense bill." The
measure doesn't make marijuana legal for those who say they need it, but it
allows a judge to impose just a $100 fine if it is shown the drug is a
medical necessity.

"I am not for expanding drug rights," said Del. Gail H. Bates, a Howard
County Republican, "but ... there are times when medications do not work. I
don't see this as being anybody's first choice." The Senate bill is in
committee, where senators were waiting for House action.