MEDICAL MARIJUANA: Prop. 215 Support Bill Stalls
A bill introduced by state Sen. John Vasconellos (D-Santa Clara) that would "put teeth into Prop. 215," the state ballot measure legalizing the medical use of marijuana, has stalled in the state Assembly Health Committee, the Long Beach Press-Telegram reports. The measure would give "communities the power to adopt zoning areas where cannabis co-ops can be established," and would mandate that "every medically eligible person be given access to marijuana, even if they cannot afford to purchase it." The bill would give some supervisory power to local authorities, allowing them to "inspect program centers without notice" and confirm that medical marijuana users have a doctor's authorization. It also would require photo I.D. cards for medical pot users. Vasconellos said that he expects the bill to eventually pass the Assembly, but concedes that Gov. Pete Wilson is likely to veto it. He also voiced frustration with the Clinton administration's tough stance on Prop. 215. "It's absolutely insane, hysterical and embarrassing. ... we're fighting an uphill battle against a federal government that's gone mad" (Segura, 7/24).
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