Anne Davis speaks at the NORML 4-20 Freedom Forum in Philadelphia

11/6/2009 – Anne Davis

NORML-NJ Board of Directors, Executive Committee

The tide is changing politically and more conservatives are recognizing that the failed policy of marijuana prohibition must end. As a Republican and a mother of two I have joined those compassionate supporters of common sense cannabis policy. Republican Senator Baroni supports the NJ Compassionate Use Medical Marijuana Act. For Senator Baroni the personal stories of patients caused him to champion this issue from within his traditional Republican role of conservatism.  He was a strong voice in favor of the bill on the Senate Floor as it was considered this February. One could hear from his passionate speech that he clearly felt sympathy for these patients that have found marijuana eases their pain and daily suffering.

There are more and more Republicans standing up nationally, recognizing that the marijuana laws must change. The scientific evidence is clear that it is less harmful to the body than the numerous pharmaceutical drugs that are prescribed. Every day as the media increasingly covers cannabis and its related issues, it is becoming more apparent that society is not opposed to the medical use of marijuana. Sen. Baroni and other Republicans do what they know is right.

Right now we have an urgent case involving medical marijuana. NJ resident John Ray Wilson, a 36-year-old MS patient, is facing 20 years in prison for growing cannabis plants to treat his MS. Though he grew 17 plants at his home for his own medical use, he is charged with operating a manufacturing facility. Recently the judge assigned to his case ruled that John was not permitted to mention during his trial that he had MS. New Jersey Senators Scutari and Lesniack have requested a pardon from the Governor recognizing that his criminal prosecution is wrong.

Many of the legislators in this state already recognize that it is vital to stop wasting taxpayers dollars on needless prosecutions like that of John Wilson. We are in an economic crisis and there is no bigger waste of government spending than on criminal prosecution of medical marijuana patients. No politician can justify this spending of our tax dollars on police resources, prosecutors, judiciary resources, jails, prisons, intervention programs, and probation programs. These patients harm no one and the Compassionate Use Act does not change the existing law for recreational possession, driving or anything else. The bill removes burdens for law enforcement, provides scientifically proven therapeutic relief and allows state regulated alternative treatment centers to provide safe, restricted cannabis distribution to authorized patients.

My faith is with fellow Republican, Governor Elect Christopher Christie, to do what is right. I hope that he will remain true to his campaign promise to support The New Jersey Compassionate Use Medical Marijuana Act, protecting these patients while putting an end to wasteful government spending.

Anne M. Davis Esq,

Brick, NJ

NORML-NJ Board of Directors