|
Jan. 7, 2008 Dear Mr. Linn, Thank you for contacting me about medical marijuana. I am honored to represent you, and I appreciate your active participation in our legislative process. Your involvement makes democracy work better by helping me more effectively represent you and Illinois' Eighth District. Marijuana is currently classified as a Schedule I controlled substance under the Controlled Substances Act. Inherent to that classification is the assumption that marijuana has no medicinal properties. However, in 2001, the American Medical Association recommended additional studies into the application of marijuana in the treatment of various diseases. Although some states have permitted the use of marijuana for exclusively medicinal purposes, current law allows the federal government to prosecute anyone found possessing the drug regardless of whether they have a prescription. In 2005, the Supreme Court's decision in the case Gonzales v. Raich reinforced that power by recognizing the effect that marijuana can have on interstate commerce. This June, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 3093, The Science, State, Justice, Commerce, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act of 2008. During consideration of H.R. 3093, I voted in support of the Supreme Court's decision by opposing an amendment offered by Representative Hinchey that would have prohibited the Justice Department from enforcing federal marijuana laws. The Hinchey amendment was defeated by a margin of 165 to 262. Please rest assured that should additional legislation related to medical marijuana come to the floor for a vote, I will be sure to keep your views in mind. Thank you again for contacting me about this important issue. I am proud to serve Illinois' Eighth District, and I am committed to working hard for you. Please do not hesitate to write, call, or email if I can ever help you in any way.
Sincerely, Melissa L. Bean Member of Congress P.S. To stay informed on this and other important topics, visit my website at www.house.gov/bean to subscribe to e-news updates.
|
