Rhode Island Legislature proves New York can act on medical marijuana

You probably remember some New York legislators' claims last year that a U.S. Supreme Court decision made it impossible for states to pass effective medical marijuana laws. On Tuesday, the Rhode Island House proved them wrong. After a 59-13 vote to override Gov. Donald Carcieri's (R) veto, Rhode Island became the 11th medical marijuana state. Now, it's time to ask your legislators to make New York the 12th.

Let your legislators know that they can — and morally must — act to protect the sick and dying from being arrested for treating their illnesses. Our pre-written letters and automated system will make it quick and easy for you to write your legislators.

Yesterday, the New York Legislature reconvened for the second half of the 2005-2006 session. That makes this the perfect timing to let your legislators know you expect them to protect the seriously ill from arrest. Assembly Health Committee Chair Richard Gottfried's (D-Manhattan) medical marijuana bill — A. 8265 — and Sen. Vincent Leibell's (R-Putnam County) bill — S. 5040 — are very similar to the Rhode Island law and are still awaiting legislative action.

The Supreme Court's June decision, Gonzales v. Raich, reaffirmed what was already known — that the federal government can prosecute patients for using medical marijuana, even in states that allow it. But, because 99% of all marijuana arrests are made at the state or local level, state medical marijuana laws provide near total protections for patients.

With overwhelming support for the bill, both in the medical community and among the public, there is no excuse for inaction. Seventy-six percent of New Yorkers, the State Medical Society, the State Nurses Association, the Hospice and Palliative Care Association of New York State, Statewide Senior Action Council, Gay Men’s Health Crisis, and the New York AIDS Coalition all support New York's medical marijuana legislation.

So please don't forget to ask your legislator to change state law to protect AIDS, cancer, and multiple sclerosis patients. Click here to write your letter today.

Thank you for supporting the Marijuana Policy Project. Please pass this on to your friends and family, so that together we can make sure that no New York patient will have to fear arrest for battling his or her disease.