RI Legalizes Medical Marijuana

Legislature overrides governor's veto to back 'compassion centers'
By Rob Quinn,  Newser Staff
Posted Jun 18, 2009 1:45 AM CDT
RI Legalizes Medical Marijuana
Dale Rogers displays different types of marijuana available at the Compassion in Action Patient Network, an organization that distributes medical marijuana to eligible patients.   (AP Photo/Andrei Pungovschi)

Rhode Island has become the third state to legalize the sale of marijuana for medicinal use, the Providence Journal reports. The state House and Senate overrode the governor's veto of the bill, which will allow the opening of three "compassion centers" where critically ill patients can buy the drug.

"Sick people should not be forced to associate with drug dealers and the dark underbelly of society to get the help they need. I’m glad we’re finally recognizing their right to access marijuana safely, legally and without needless shame or fear,” said Rep. Thomas Slater, who sponsored the bill and is suffering from advanced cancer.
(More Rhode Island stories.)

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