Tuesday, November 4, 2008

Medical marijuana proposal passes

Evening update
JEFF KAROUB • Associated Press • November 4, 2008 • From LSJ.com


DETROIT — Michigan voters have approved a ballot proposal that legalizes the use of marijuana for severely ill patients.

With 33 percent of the precincts reporting, 63 percent, or 847,244 people, voted "yes" on Proposal 1. Thirty-seven percent, or 491,593 voters, were opposed.

The proposal removes state penalties for registered patients to buy, grow and use small amounts of marijuana.

Opponents argue there's no evidence the drug is an effective treatment for glaucoma, cancer, AIDS and other conditions. Supporters say federal officials have stymied research despite evidence it can relieve suffering.

Twelve other states have medical marijuana laws. Eight stem from ballot initiatives.

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