May 21, 2013
Supporters of a bill that would legalize marijuana for medical purposes are speaking out at the state capital.
Hearings were held yesterday in response to a proposal that would legalize the drug for patients with conditions such as cancer, glaucoma, and HIV.
One advocate for cancer patients says the decision to use marijuana should be up to the patients.
"It shouldn't be policy of the this state, or any other state, to arrest, prosecute and incarcerate patients whose only crime is attempting to alleviate, with their doctor's approval, the pain and suffering caused by cancer treatment," said Don Murphy.
Opponents of the bill are concerned legalizing the drug could cause health problems and addictions. They also fear a gateway effect to other drugs.
Ten states currently allow marijuana use for medical purposes.
