Editorial: Easing their pain

The Obama administration's new policy on medical marijuana should make it easier for New Jersey and Pennsylvania to legalize its use for seriously ill patients.

The Justice Department has removed a major legal hurdle by issuing a memo directing federal prosecutors in states that allow medical marijuana not to target patients or their sanctioned suppliers when the drug is purchased for legitimate purposes.

The new policy is a significant departure from the Bush administration's mixed signals, and makes more sense.

Federal agents are still empowered to go after people whose marijuana distribution and nonmedical use is not permitted under state law, and those who use the sale of medical marijuana as a cover for other crimes.

With that cleared up, New Jersey and Pennsylvania should join the 14 other states that allow some use of marijuana for medical purposes.

A bill pending in Trenton would authorize state-registered marijuana users and their primary caregivers to have up to six marijuana plants and one ounce of marijuana. Those eligible would get ID cards issued by the state Department of Health and Senior Services. Marijuana could also be purchased at licensed centers.

The state Senate approved the bill in February, marking the first time such legislation has emerged from a committee in New Jersey. A full vote is needed by the Assembly.

Lawmakers may need to fine-tune the New Jersey bill to limit access to only those with legitimate illnesses. Clear guidelines are needed for doctors to write prescriptions.

In Pennsylvania, State Rep. Mark Cohen (D., Phila.) has introduced a similar bill that would require prescriptions for medical marijuana and set regulations for its distribution and sales. But that measure has languished in committee.

Studies show that allowing seriously ill or dying patients to use marijuana could have a tremendous health benefit. Researchers generally agree that it can ease pain and suffering from debilitating medical conditions, such as cancer or AIDS.

This isn't about making marijuana legal for recreational use. It's about improving the quality of life for the sick and dying.