RI Governor vetos MMJ bill

Not surprising but still disappointing that Rhode Island Gov. Don Carcieri vetoed the medical marijuana bill that passed by an overwhelming margin in both the House and the Senate.

In his veto message, Carcieri said the bill is flawed and could encourage marijuana abuse. "This bill will increase the availability of marijuana on the streets of our state," he said.

The Republican also noted medical marijuana use would remain illegal under federal statues.

Interestingly, Carcieri formed his opinion shortly after receiving a visit from representatives from the Office of National Drug Control Policy. ONDCP claims they didn't ask the governor to veto, they simply pointed out that federal law prohibits medical marijuana use, and reminded him that marijuana has not been proved to be a safe and effective medication. (That is unless it's the pharma profiting Sativex that their former czarina Andrea Barthwell is pushing from K Street).

The legislature has the 3/5ths vote needed to override the veto. One hopes they will continue to show the courage to stand up to the governor and the feds. Meanwhile, why don't you email the Governor and let him know what you think of gutless wonders who cave into the ONDCP propaganda.

[hat tip to Tim Meehan]