Medical marijuana a step backward

On April 17, the Illinois House passed HB 1, often referred to as “medical marijuana” legislation, 61-57. On Friday, the state Senate followed suit with a 35-21 vote, and the bill now goes to Gov. Pat Quinn.

The legislation includes the following provisions: allows 18-year-old children (high school seniors) to get medical marijuana cards without a parent’s permission, allows qualifying medical marijuana patients to get 2.5 ounces of marijuana every 14-day period or 13 “joints” per day (with this much marijuana, diversion of the extra will become problematic), allows a qualified medical marijuana patient to drive under the influence of marijuana unless found to be “impaired,” and does not allow local government to prohibit the cultivation, dispensing and use of medical cannabis as authorized.

Our communities have long been advocates of programs designed to teach and educate students and parents about drug use and the potential pitfalls and addictions that can result. Passage of such legislation is contrary to what those in the area have strived to achieve for years concerning the use of illicit drugs. We strongly urge all members of the community to contact the governor to voice opposition to this legislation.

Frank Kaminski

Park Ridge police chief

William Kushner

Des Plaines police chief

Dean Strzelecki

Niles police chief