LETTERS REGARDING MEDICAL MARIJUANA TASK FORCE

I would like to address some inaccuracies presented as fact in your editorial.

First and foremost, it should be made clear: these guidelines are in no way
intended to be guides to medical practitioners for the prescription of
cannabis. They are intended to serve as guidelines for City of San Diego
law enforcement personnel and the medical patients whom they may encounter
in the course of their duties.

Second, members of the Medical Cannabis Task Force are representatives of
patients, caregivers, medical professionals and legal experts. The doctor
who was dismissed as a "controversial osteopath" is in fact a licensed
medical practitioner who has extensive experience in treating patients with
HIV and AIDS.

The membership of the task force was first suggested at a Public Safety and
Neighborhood Services Committee meeting in early 2001. It was approved by
the mayor and council by an 8-1 vote later that spring.

After holding a series of public forums and hearings, the task force
concluded that evidence exists to support the need for a clear
understanding on the part of both law enforcement personnel, medical
professionals and prospective patients with regards to what is and is not
allowed under the law.

I would challenge anyone who has heard first-hand testimony from recent
chemotherapy patients or persons with AIDS to discount their testimony.
These people have no agenda but to eat, to survive, and to maintain their
dignity and a sense of control over their own lives. It is for them and
others like them that we have a duty to give guidance.

Toni Atkins

San Diego City Council member,

Third District