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

(Newser) – 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.

[Images (3)]

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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)

Marijuana plants being grown are seen in a house in Tijuana, Mexico, Thursday, Jan. 15, 2009. Special forces soldiers found some 170 marijuana plants, in a room used as a greenhouse, and detained a suspect. (AP Photo/Guillermo Arias)

Rhode Island has joined California and New Mexico in legalizing the sale of marijuana for medicinal uses. (AP Photo/Rich Pedroncelli)

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For the more than 600 Rhode Islanders who rely on marijuana to help relieve unimaginable suffering, or to relieve their nausea to take food, this will provide not only relief and safety, but
also dignity. - Rep. Thomas Slater

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RI Legalizes Medical Marijuana