The Future of Medical Use of Marijuana - State Vs. Federal Power

There have been several articles in this space with regard to the use of medical marijuana, upon the recommendation of a physician, to ease the pain of those suffering specific diseases. The first was concerned with the case of Bernie Ellis, an acknowledged activist and sometime consultant to state and Federal agencies, who was prosecuted by the U.S. Justice Department for growing and possessing a small amount of cannabis to help him endure pain and for offering the same drug to others similarly afflicted, at no cost. The piece discussed the respective roles of the Federal and state governments and how the former has taken charge. The second was an article discussing the dilemma faced by physicians who can lose their license by facilitating the utilization of marijuana by those who have a medical need, all as allowed by state law. The third article discussed the penalty of forfeiture upon conviction of a drug offense and how Mr. Ellis could lose an extremely valuable farm.

The controversy arises in those states which have enacted laws permitting the utilization of cannabis, upon a physician's recommendation. Such laws, in the opinion of the Federales, do not protect someone from prosecution and, upon conviction, substantial prison sentences.

A disclaimer and personal note.

This article does not relate to purely recreational use of marijuana. In case anyone cares, I hold no brief for the use of marijuana or any drug, including alcohol, for the purpose of escaping reality. I have seen too many instances where drugs have left a person unable to work, function in an adult productive manner or have rational thoughts.

Effectiveness of cannabis for medical purposes

Marijuana has been used for medical purposes for nearly 5,000 years. Until its use was effectively eliminated in 1937 in the United States, it was a component of many medicines used in this country. It is said that the increasing usage of cannabis as a recreational drug made its medical use problematical.

Marijuana -- a probable benefit to ill people but denied because of Federal attitudes

Credit: WP Clip Art

Copyright: Public domain