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Last updated 11:43 am CT September 02, 2010.
Should Medical Marijuana Be Legalized in Illinois?
The ad campaign comes as Illinois lawmakers consider new medical marijuana legislation. The commercials and the bill make clear, this isn't a push for legalization of recreational marijuana. It is only for those with debilitating chronic pain or a terminal disease who may find relief by smoking pot.
"I have severe osteo-arthritis."
"My spine is completely degenerated."
In ads, sponsored by the Marijuana Policy Project, both women say the use of marijuana eases their crippling pain. Senator Bill Haine says, neither women should be considered a criminal...
"We live in a compassionate state and the law should be reasonable," the senator explains during a press conference in Springfield on Tuesday.
Haine is sponsoring a bill that would make the medical use of marijuana legal.
"Upon the recommendation of a physician- to allow that person to use marijuana."
The Senator says the newly improved bill sets up a structure and legal framework to allow use under very limited circumstances.
"At every point, we've attempted to restrict it to the use, which is those who are suffering."
The bill would allow medical marijuana use for a three year trial run. A commission would then review the program and if there are major problems...
"The legislature, including myself, will not renew the act."
Here in Southern Illinois, the idea gets mixed reviews:
"I think the benefits outweigh the negatives," explains Gordon Walker of Carterville.
Dawn Smolak of Herrin doesn't agree. She says, because she's a Christian, medicinal marijuana is morally wrong, "I don't think its needed. I don't think its necessary."
And some, like Alice Read of Carterville, ride the center line, "It would depend on the individuals situation and what the doctor is recommending," she explains. "I certainly don't advocate it just across the board, you know."
If the bill is approved, patients with a doctor's approval would be allowed to have seven marijuana plants or two ounces of pot. Users would not be able to operate a vehicle at all. Anyone breaking these rules would face serious sanctions. The Illinois Senate is expected to vote on the issue within a week.
By: Rachel Gartner
rgartner@wsiltv.com
Now: 1283451091
