POLL FINDS MAJORITY FAVORS POT LEGALIZATION

Editor: Regarding your Jan. 5 editorial, "Accepting applications for
Shibilski's replacement," the new state senator should have the integrity,
courage and compassion to take the initiative to lead the legislature to
work to pass a state medical marijuana bill in both chambers and send it to
Gov. Doyle for his signature.

Political game playing in the last legislative session doomed legislation
that would have protected sick and dying Wisconsinites from arrest and jail
for using medicinal pot to ease their suffering. The bill was snuffed
despite a poll finding over 80 percent of Wisconsinites support legalizing
medical marijuana. A new bill is expected to be introduced soon in the
Assembly.

Too many legislators act like even medical marijuana is a stretch, when
they should have the mercy to consider that accidental or serious illness
can strike anyone at any time, and if it does, every option ought to be on
the table.

A state senator who puts science ahead of politics and who understands that
cannabis is a natural, safe and effective treatment option would be the
ideal replacement for Shibilski. Hopefully a candidate with these qualities
will be on the ballot.

Gary Storck

Madison