MN: State Senate approves medical marijuana [View All]

Source: Minneapolis Star Tribune

The Minnesota Senate today tentatively voted to approve the use of medical marijuana in the state. The 36-28 vote came despite questions about whether the measure fully defines who would be eligible and whether it provides proper safeguards against abuse.

Law enforcement has consistently opposed medical marijuana, but Sen. Steve Murphy, DFL-Red Wing, chief author of the bill (S.F. 97), said during debate that the measure is a medical issue not one for "our brothers and sisters in blue."

It's estimated that about 900 people will enroll in the program the first year, a number that will grow to about 6,800 at full enrollment. The bill allows 2.5 ounces for a qualifying patient and up to 12 plants if the patient is authorized to cultivate the marijuana. A doctor would have to certify that the person qualifies and non-profit groups would be set-up to dispense the marijuana, The Minnesota Department of Health would administer the program to set up a registry of users, who would be provided photo ID cards. The bill would take effect in January 2010.

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