-- An

says it's time for this state to enact a law similar to those in place in 16 others that would allow physicians to prescribe marijuana as treatment for certain ailments and protect patients using medicinal marijuana from prosecution.

K.L. Brown, R-Jacksonville, has filed the bill for consideration in the legislative session beginning next month.

notes that recent UAB research has dispelled some longstanding objections.

Our commenters seem convinced. They say they would like to see the legislation passed, but have their doubts about the bill making it through. Read some of what people were saying about it:

• "You are right, this won't get through, but it is a step in the process. More and more people are begining to see the war on drugs is a failure. They are begining to see that a free man owns himself and can do to himself as he choses." --

Martin Kaine

• "The plant is used (legally) in 17 states and Washington DC now. Are cancer patients in Alabama not as worthy as patients in the "approved" states? Geographical location should never determine criminality." --

Menshevik1

• "It'll be interesting to see if all these anti-big-gubmint, anti-smoking-ban conservative and/or Libertarian politicians are consistent on this one. Heck, they can be consistent, snub the federal government, let people smoke, AND ease suffering! But will they do it? Probably not..." --

Think1stwrite2nd

• "If we could get a petition to pass Cannabis to be demoralized. I WOULD sign it in a heartbeat. 40 years of WAR against a PLANT is 40 years TO LONG!" --

Emporessoflaundry

• "Supported. By the time I'm 65, I better be able to use marijuana to get my mind off of my cancer." --

CO3X157

• "I never expect this to make it through, but thank you for trying Rep. Brown. If you have any objections to this proposal, go get some first-hand experience with someone undergoing chemotherapy. I would have blown the smoke in my daughter's face if I'd had legal access. Marijuana doesn't compare to those poisons." --

2086

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