cannabisnews.com: Medical Marijuana Users Need Protection










  Medical Marijuana Users Need Protection

Posted by CN Staff on February 03, 2007 at 07:08:25 PT
By Damon Agnos, The Washington Forum 
Source: Spokesman-Review  

Seattle, WA -- Sharon Tracy "may have been exactly the kind of patient the voters of this state had in mind when they enacted the medical marijuana initiative, I-692."So said the Washington State Supreme Court in a Nov. 22 ruling about a woman who suffers from, among other things, diabetes, heart disease, degenerating discs in her back, a hip deformity, and who has had a series of eight corrective surgeries for a ruptured colon and bowel conditions. On her doctor's recommendation, Sharon Tracy was using marijuana to treat her pain.
Nevertheless, Skamania County saw fit to arrest and prosecute her, and the Supreme Court saw fit to uphold her conviction, all because her doctor got his license in California instead of Washington. Now she is serving home detention in Stevenson, more than 25 miles from the nearest hospital, and her felony conviction means that she'll no longer be able to help out at the day care at her church.Prosecuting Sharon Tracy and monitoring her through the department of corrections is probably not the way most taxpayers want their money spent. And, as the court pointed out, it is clearly not what Washington voters had in mind when they voted for Washington's medical marijuana initiative. Those voters recognized that protecting people like Sharon Tracy from prosecution and jail time is a matter of compassion, common sense and fiscal responsibility.However, law enforcement and the courts have had difficulty honoring the voters' will. Time and again, the people whom the law was meant to protect find themselves in handcuffs or worse. A Centralia man, the caretaker for a muscular dystrophy patient, was arrested and prosecuted for possessing that patient's medical marijuana (which was then confiscated) – even though the law explicitly allows him to do so. A Bremerton woman who has lupus and a doctor's recommendation for medical marijuana was arrested and prosecuted for possessing a pipe with nothing but marijuana residue in it. There are stories like these all across Washington.If we want to make sure that the law does what it was intended to do – that is, to protect patients and caregivers from unnecessary and cruel prosecution – we need to make some changes.The law needs to be clarified so that those who follow the rules can avoid arrest, not just conviction. As it stands, the law provides only a defense at trial.The law needs to be clarified so that qualifying patients and caregivers can create community medical gardens, providing the intangible benefits of community support and ensuring that all patients who need medical marijuana have access to it. Growing marijuana is an expensive, time-consuming endeavor – frequently too much for a sick patient to handle alone. If one of your elderly relatives learned she needed chemotherapy in a week, and her doctor recommended marijuana for the nausea, do you think she'd be able to grow what she needs in seven days? If she could join a community garden, she'd be sure to have her medicine when the treatments began.The law needs to be clarified to protect employees who use medical marijuana. Employees who treat their pain with cannabis on a doctor's recommendation should not be treated any differently from employees who treat their pain with opiate-based drugs like codeine on their doctor's recommendation. Testing positive for following your doctor's advice shouldn't mean losing your job.The law should be clarified so that doctors' expert opinions are given their due. Washington respects a California doctor's opinion that a patient will benefit from conventional painkillers; it should also respect that same doctor's opinion that another patient would benefit instead from medical marijuana.It's too late for our medical marijuana law to protect Sharon Tracy, but Gov. Gregoire should issue a commutation so she can return to California to care for her very ill mother, and a pardon to rid her of the felony conviction that prevents her from working with children. Just as importantly our Legislature needs to make sure that future patients don't have to undergo her ordeal. It's a simple decision – compassion, common sense and fiscal responsibility tell us that it makes no sense to prosecute and jail sick people for pursuing doctor-recommended medication. Let's do the right thing and protect Washington's medical marijuana patients.Source: Spokesman-Review (Spokane, WA)Author: Damon Agnos, The Washington ForumPublished: February 3, 2007Copyright: 2007 The Spokesman-ReviewContact: editor spokesman.comWebsite: http://www.spokesmanreview.com/Related Articles: Medical Marijuana: Dopey Decisionhttp://cannabisnews.com/news/thread22405.shtmlOut-of-State Doctors Can't Advise Use of Pothttp://cannabisnews.com/news/thread22402.shtml

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Comment #27 posted by Storm Crow on February 05, 2007 at 06:28:02 PT
A small favor, please....
I did something a bit radical for me- I contacted CNN about Randy Brush! I had the crazy idea that if enough folks contacted CNN, they might give the story a few seconds on national TV. I've gotten 2 others (one in Canada) to say they will email CNN about Randy. If you can't make it there, can you email CNN? Their web site, CNN.com, has very easy to use comments sections. Took me all of a minute to do and I'm a "computer dummy". Tonya (bless her heart) can handle the local press, but it will take a real group effort to get CNN! Anyone up for it? 
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Comment #26 posted by publicbulldog on February 04, 2007 at 13:44:58 PT:
GO HB 1395
WASHINGTON STATE BILL ALLOWS OUT OF STATE Dr.To authorize medical marijuana.
Support HB 1395
Call S.Appleton
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Comment #25 posted by FoM on February 04, 2007 at 13:16:53 PT

goneposthole
I read that the half time performance was going to be Prince. I watched it the last two years with McCartney and the Stones but we won't be watching it this year. I can't answer your question but a lot will be consumed. I hope the one from Chicago wins though. 
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Comment #24 posted by goneposthole on February 04, 2007 at 13:09:53 PT

question
How much cannabis is going to be smoked during the Super Bowl today beginning just before kick off?
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Comment #23 posted by FoM on February 04, 2007 at 13:09:02 PT

Toker00
If trying to put the cart in front of the horse isn't the way we should do it then I don't know much about anything. I mean we can't change the laws on Cannabis until we get the direction we are headed turned around or this old world might not be what it is now for much longer.
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Comment #22 posted by Toker00 on February 04, 2007 at 13:04:59 PT

Sorry so many OTs, FoM. Just doing what I can.
Others may want to help. Here is an opportunity.https://secure.aclu.org/site/Advocacy?pagename=homepage&id=551&page=UserAction&JServSessionIdr001=6p1zx495m1.app24aToke.
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Comment #21 posted by Toker00 on February 04, 2007 at 12:55:41 PT

That is GREAT! Thanks, Storm Crow.
Wish I could make the trip, and I look forward to Randy posting here, as soon as he is OUT. Someone bring him here and let's celebrate! Eight months and we'll have Jerry back with us, too!Toke.
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Comment #20 posted by Richard Zuckerman on February 04, 2007 at 10:33:56 PT:

GERMANY ARRESTS U.S. TREASURY SECRETARY
According to www.worldreports.org, $4.5 Trillion intended to go to the Wanta Plan Settlement was stolen and secreted offshore by the Secretary of the U.S. Department of the Treasury, named Henry M. Paulson, former Chief Executive Officer of Goldman Sachs and Company, and Vice-President Richard "Dick" Cheney. U.S. Dept. of Treasury Secretary [Not the office Secretary, either!!] Henry M. Paulson has been arrested by German authorities, of whom the Wanta Plan Settlement is connected. The cover story of the January 24, 2007, issue of The Free Press, P.O. Box 2303, Kerrville, Texas, 78029, freepres ktc.com, subscription cost of $25 for 12 issues. As far as I know of, Henry M. Paulson is not related to the comedian from the 1960s named Pat Paulson, and this is no joke.Richard Paul Zuckerman, P.O. Box 159, Metuchen, N.J., 08840-0159, (Cell)(848) 250-8879, Buck Private Paralegal.
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Comment #19 posted by Storm Crow on February 04, 2007 at 10:12:21 PT

Meanwhile in Ohio....
If you are anywhere near Ohio, please come out and greet Randy Brush. http://www.treatingyourself.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=19280Meet Randy Brush Feb 7 2007 in person
Meet medical cannabis activist and patient advocate Randy Brush.
When: February 7, 2007
Where: Ohio Statehouse
Columbus, Ohio
Time: 11 AM -1 PMRandy Brush is a victim of this failed drug war and is dedicated to changing these unjust laws so that no one else has to endure what he has during this past year in the Ohio prison system, all because he was using cannabis as a medicine.Randy almost died behind those prison walls, and has a heck of a story to tell. Please come and show him your support.
Randy Brush will be released Feb 7, 2007 to James Cowen VP of North Ohio NORML and they will be making a stop at the statehouse on their way to Cleveland to a halfway house. Randy has to stay there for 90 days.We will be delivering a special message to the Ohio Senators, State Reps, and to Ohio medical cannabis patients.
Please join us for this special event, and meet Randy Brush and Tonya Davis. Meet us at 11am at the entrance across from the Columbus Dispatch. We will be going into the statehouse to deliver a copy of the Ohio Compassionate Act to the offices of two committees.See you there!Tonya Davis - Director of medical cannabis
North Ohio NORML
__________________
PeaceTonya Davis
http://myspace.com/mmjactionnetwork
Or
http://www.youtube.com/ActivistTonyaDavis
plus many other great activists have videos there.
Http://FREERANDYBRUSH.com
http://mmjactionnetwork.comMay God Bless and Protect us All 
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Comment #18 posted by FoM on February 04, 2007 at 09:57:29 PT

Just a Comment
I can't find any news so far but I'll keep looking. Have a great day everyone!
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Comment #17 posted by mayan on February 04, 2007 at 05:05:48 PT

Insane
So, the authorities chose to arrest and prosecute this woman who has diabetes, heart disease, degenerating discs in her back, a hip deformity, and who has had a series of eight corrective surgeries for a ruptured colon and bowel conditions. Such wonderful people!THE WAY OUT IS THE WAY IN...9/11: The Case Isn't Closed:
http://www.alternet.org/story/45726/9/11 - Who Put Thermite In The World Trade Center?
http://www.rense.com/general75/thrm.htmThe 9/11 Chronicles: Just What We Needed! 9/11 Percipient Witnesses! 
http://www.politicalcortex.com/story/2007/2/2/184042/0479Who Will Be The Next 9/11 Truth Superhero?
http://www.prisonplanet.com/articles/february2007/020207truthsuperhero.htm
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Comment #16 posted by mai_bong_city on February 03, 2007 at 13:23:11 PT

i second that, goneposthole.
the coconut oil, i mean. got on to it about half a year ago and also my friend is using it on/in her animals with great result. wunderbar!
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Comment #15 posted by FoM on February 03, 2007 at 11:44:28 PT

goneposthole 
Thank you. That is interesting to know. 
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Comment #14 posted by goneposthole on February 03, 2007 at 11:38:07 PT

coconut oil
FoM, it is a beneficial oil. Organic, cold-pressed is what is desired. Nothing partially hydrogenated or fully hydrogenated.http://www.coconutresearchcenter.org/article10132.htmHere's why we need protection:"Our enemies are innovative and resourceful, and so are we. They never stop thinking about new ways to harm our country and our people, and neither do we."-- George W. Bush (August 5, 2004)
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Comment #13 posted by FoM on February 03, 2007 at 11:29:56 PT

laduncon 
Thank you for testing. I still am blocked from posting unless I'm behind security which I am.
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Comment #12 posted by FoM on February 03, 2007 at 11:28:27 PT

goneposthole
I think that the Dems are the better of the two main parties in the time we are living in. I don't put any faith in politicians but I do put faith in the people to decide. Shouldn't we at least try or shouldn't we vote at all?
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Comment #11 posted by goneposthole on February 03, 2007 at 11:22:00 PT

Protection
The entire world needs protection from the US government, not just America."Any day now, any day now, I shall be released."Nancy Pelosi is worth some 36 million dollars. She isn't there for the little guy with no protection.She's another empty suit. Don't vote for stupid Demoncrats. Don't vote for stupid Republicans.
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Comment #10 posted by laduncon on February 03, 2007 at 11:19:40 PT

check post
checking if comment posting is working
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Comment #9 posted by FoM on February 03, 2007 at 11:10:25 PT

One More Comment
I hope that no one is having trouble posting. I can't post unless I am behind security. Something must be wrong and I thought I should mention it.
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Comment #8 posted by FoM on February 03, 2007 at 10:22:42 PT

Just a Note
I can't find anymore news to post but I'll keep looking. Have a great weekend everyone.
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Comment #7 posted by FoM on February 03, 2007 at 09:29:51 PT

Toker00
Yes she did say that. I just can't imagine people voting for more of the Clintons though. She too much like a Republican. We need new blood to help bring change. Maybe it will be Obama and time will tell. Maybe it's Dennis Kucinich's time. And then there is Al Gore maybe. One thing for sure is the Dems have so many good people running that it won't matter who wins to me really. My opinion of Senator Clinton is personal.
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Comment #6 posted by Toker00 on February 03, 2007 at 09:24:25 PT

FoM
Clinton claims she'll end the war. If she doesn't, it will end her. And many others. You're right, John Lennon. It's your face. They hate me face, too, John, and all who dare to drag the war machine to the scrap heap.Dank, take care bro. Some sunshine will help. We have some down here today, after a week of gloom and cold and rain. I don't really mind the winter weather, but being under the weather, in winter, sux.FoM, I hope you continue to feel better and better.War is over if you want it. I want it.Toke.
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Comment #5 posted by FoM on February 03, 2007 at 08:46:04 PT

One More Comment
Bush is speaking on C-Span now and I couldn't listen any longer. I muted the sound and put on Neil Young's song Let's Impeach The President. It's doing wonders for my mood! LOL!
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Comment #4 posted by FoM on February 03, 2007 at 08:39:22 PT

Dankhank
It really is a great video. It did my heart good to hear it played at the Democratic National Committee Winter Meeting.Take good care because pneumonia can set in easily. Rest and chicken noodle soup helps. I am slowly getting better. I have good days and bad days but even the bad days aren't as bad as they were when I first got sick. Get better real soon and rest.
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Comment #3 posted by Dankhank on February 03, 2007 at 08:24:39 PT

right on FoM
beautiful video ...---------------I am currently suffering the mother of colds ...Head hurts nose stuffed throat sore coughing been like this for days ...peace to all who fight ...
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Comment #2 posted by FoM on February 03, 2007 at 07:55:04 PT

Power To The People
Yoko Ono must be allowing the Dems. to use the song and all I can say is wow!http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gedqNpd_90g
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Comment #1 posted by FoM on February 03, 2007 at 07:16:14 PT

Democratic National Committee Winter Meeting
It is live on C-Span now. 
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