The measure, known as Proposition 215, is being watched nationwide along with a similar ballot initiative in Arizona. Both would allow doctors to openly recommend medical use of marijuana and prohibit prosecution of primary caregivers who obtain or grow marijuana. Opponents argue that the initiative would pave the way for the legalization of other drugs, while proponents say the drug has therapeutic benefits for the seriously ill. Politicians, highly sensitive to drugs as an election-year issue, warily track it from the sidelines. The initiatives are considered major tests of using the ballot box to circumvent political footdragging.
Polls show that support for medicinal marijuana use is rising.
Two bills with similar language to Proposition 215 passed the California legislature in 1994 and 1995, only to be vetoed by Gov. Pete Wilson. While several California polls seem to indicate the measure will pass, Proposition 215 is also drawing interest for the signal it may send to other states and to Washington. The issue has become political dynamite in Election 1996 after recent statistics showed marijuana, LSD, and cocaine use had more than doubled since 1992 among children 12 to 17. In an election year, no top politician wants to appear soft on drugs. This gives them a signal that the people want an exemption for medical purposes.