Monday, March 26, 2007 

Dear Dan:

Thank you for contacting me regarding the legalization of marijuana. I appreciate hearing your thoughts on this matter.

I am aware of the arguments that legalizing marijuana would make the drug more "controlled" or safer, and that it may curb the violence associated with the sale of an illegal substance.  I also appreciate that many physicians believe that medicinal marijuana can be helpful to some patients.  Currently, Illinois state law prohibits the use of marijuana for medical purposes unless the user has applied for permission and proven their need for use.

As you may know, the Supreme Court last year issued a ruling on medical marijuana, deciding on a 6-3 vote that the Federal government has authority to override state laws that allow for the use of marijuana for medicinal purposes.  Federal law prohibits the possession or cultivation of marijuana for any purpose, including medicinal uses, and no exceptions have been made on the national level. 

Again, thank you for writing.  Please make sure to keep in touch.
Sincerely,

Barack Obama
United States Senator


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