Thank you for taking the time to contact me. I apologize for the delay in my response. I value the correspondence I get from people back home in Wisconsin, and I would like to take this opportunity to address your concerns. Many people believe that marijuana helps relieve suffering from cancer, AIDS, arthritis, and other painful medical conditions. Currently, the use of medicinal marijuana is legal in 11 states for patients under a doctor's care. However, the federal Controlled Substances Act prohibits the manufacture, distribution, and possession of marijuana, and other illegal drugs. The Supreme Court recently ruled that state laws permitting the use of medical marijuana do not protect individuals from prosecution under the Controlled Substances Act. On May 4, 2005, Representative Frank Barney (D-MA) introduced the H.R. 2087, the "States' Rights to Medical Marijuana Act." This bill would provide for the medical use of marijuana in accordance with each state's laws. In states that permit the use of medical marijuana, the "States' Rights to Medical Marijuana Act" would protect the rights of doctors, patients, and pharmacists with regard to the distribution and use of the drug. H.R. 2087 is currently before the House Committee on Energy and Commerce. Should similar legislation be introduced in the Senate, you can be assured I will keep your views in mind. Again, thank you for contacting me. I appreciate knowing your thoughts on this issue. Sincerely, Herb Kohl U.S. Senator