WHEREAS:
Marijuana has proven effective at treating the illness of or side-effects associated with:  glaucoma, cancer, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, HIV/AIDS, Cohn’s disease, hepatitis C, wasting syndrome, severe/chronic pain, nausea, seizure disorders, muscle spasticity, arthritis, migraines and agitation of Alzheimer’s disease; and

WHEREAS:
The National Academy of Sciences Institute of Medicine has determined, in a 1999 report, that “the accumulated data indicate a potential therapeutic value for cannabinoid drugs, particularly for symptoms such as pain relief, control of nausea and vomiting, and appetite stimulation;” and

WHEREAS:
The New England Journal of Medicine has stated that “prohibiting physicians from alleviating suffering by prescribing marijuana for seriously ill patients is misguided, heavy-handed, and inhumane;” and

WHEREAS:
Diverse non-medical entities such as the National Black Police Association, Law Enforcement Against Prohibition, the New York Times Editorial Board, the National Association of Attorneys General, Americans for Democratic Action, Public Citizen, and Women of Reform Judaism have come out in favor of legalized prescription access of medical marijuana.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED:
That AFSCME endorses and supports legalization of medical marijuana for appropriate medically indicated ailments including but not limited to HIV/AIDS, cancer, glaucoma, epilepsy, arthritis, and the other medical conditions listed herein.
 
 
SUBMITTED BY:  Claude Fort, President and Delegate
AFSCME Local 375, Council 37
New York