Government
Illinois debates medical marijuana legislation
NEWS IN BRIEF — Posted May 26, 2008
Seriously ill patients could have access to medical marijuana with a physician's recommendation, under a bill being considered by the Illinois Senate. The legislation would shield patients from criminal prosecution for using cannabis -- a conflict with federal law outlawing the drug. Qualified patients would have to register for an identification card with the Dept. of Public Health.
The bill, if passed, would make Illinois the 13th state to legalize medical marijuana use, according to the Marijuana Policy Project, which lobbies for such measures at the state and federal levels. The Illinois State Medical Society is neutral on the bill.
Note: This item originally appeared at http://www.ama-assn.org/amednews/2008/05/26/gvbf0526.htm.












