Gov. Ehrlich signs MPP's medical marijuana bill

Today, May 22, Governor Robert Ehrlich (R) signed H.B. 702, the Darrell Putman Compassionate Use Act, into law. This historic event marks the first time a Republican governor has signed a medical marijuana bill.

Immediately after the signing ceremony, MPP Executive Director Rob Kampia, former Delegate Don Murphy (the bill's original sponsor in 2000, 2001, and 2002), bill sponsor Sen. David Brinkley (R), MPP lobbyist Gil Genn, Darrell Putman's widow Shay Putman, and former medical marijuana patients Larry Silberman and Erin Hildebrandt held a brief press conference in the State Capitol. At the press conference, Kampia explained how Gov. Ehrlich signed the bill into law in the face of White House Drug Czar John Walters' lies and forceful opposition.

After four years of intensive lobbying by MPP, Maryland has become the ninth state to protect its medical marijuana patients from imprisonment. The victory, however sweet, is not yet complete. Maryland's medical marijuana patients still face arrest for the simple act of using their medicine, and MPP will continue to fight until patients are fully protected.

Please click here tomorrow (Friday) to view the press generated by MPP's victory in Maryland. Specifically, H.B. 702 allows patients to use an "affirmative defense" in court. If a patient can prove that he or she used marijuana for medical purposes, a judge may impose only a civil fine of up to $100. To view the full text of Maryland's new medical marijuana law, click here.

Thank you for supporting MPP and our efforts in Maryland. This victory would not have been possible without the countless e-mails, phone calls, and letters from MPP supporters like you.