New Federal Memo Takes Aim at Medical Marijuana Use
A recent memo from Deputy U.S. Attorney General James Cole notes that state laws "are not a defense" from federal prosecution, adding that "Congress has determined that marijuana is a dangerous drug," and distributing it "is a serious crime." Some state officials say the new memo contradicts an October 2009 memo from Deputy U.S. Attorney General David Ogden that said that federal authorities would not target the legal use of medical marijuana in states where it is permitted. Department of Justice officials said the new memo aims to offer "guidance" to states that allow the use of medical marijuana and does not indicate a shift in federal policy.
- "New Federal Memo on Medical Marijuana Stirs Angst" (Hecht, Sacramento Bee, 7/17).
- "Marijuana for Patients Remains Off-Limits" (Pérez-Peña, New York Times, 7/17).