Medical marijuana law hazy for those on probation

[bluedigger]

DENVER – A new Colorado law that allows people on probation to use medical marijuana has proven difficult to implement. Since the law took effect May 8, probation departments have reported “growing pains.” The new statute states that for most probation sentences, the possession or use of medical marijuana no longer is a violation.

Rep. Joe Salazar, D-Thornton, who sponsored the legislation that passed the Legislature this year, said he has been receiving reports that despite the new law, some on probation still are being threatened with violations. “People have been blowing up my phone, both here and at my law office, about the fact that they are card-carrying medical marijuana users, they’re on probation, they started to use their medical marijuana, and probation officers are saying that they are in violation of the law,” said Salazar, a civil-rights attorney.

For its part, the Colorado Division of Probation Services acknowledged that direction has been needed. The division recently issued protocols to judicial districts across the state. “It might be some growing pains,” said Jon Sarché, spokesman for the Colorado Judicial Branch. “It’s still brand new, and our probation officers out in the field are getting used to it. If any problems do crop up, we will work to rectify them.”

http://www.cortezjournal.com/article/20150622/NEWS01/150629992/-1/News01/Medical-marijuana-law-hazy-for-those-on-probation-