by The Associated Press
Thursday December 04, 2008, 5:02 PM
DETROIT -- Medical marijuana became legal in Michigan on Thursday, a month after being overwhelmingly approved by voters. But patients looking to relieve pain, nausea and loss of appetite don't have the go-ahead to light up just yet.
The new law allows patients with cancer, HIV, AIDS, glaucoma and other diseases to use marijuana to relieve their symptoms on a doctor's recommendation.
Qualifying patients can register with the state and receive ID cards allowing them to legally acquire, possess, grow, transport and use a limited amount -- no more than 2.5 ounces and 12 plants -- of marijuana. They also can designate a primary caregiver to receive similar protection.
But those cards won't be issued until sometime next year, after the Department of Community Health introduces guidelines addressing how applications will be handled, what fees will be charged and other issues. The rules must be finalized by April 4.
More:
http://www.mlive.com/news/index.ssf/2008/12/mich_medical_pot_law_now_in_ef.html