As Frank prepares marijuana bill, states make own efforts

By Matthew Huisman
Standard-Times correspondents
April 06, 2008 6:00 AM
and Jason Millman

WASHINGTON — Proponents of U.S. Rep. Barney Frank's proposal to legalize small amounts of marijuana are pointing to efforts in some states — including Massachusetts — to decriminalize the drug as evidence of public support for Rep. Frank's plan.

Rep. Frank, D-Mass., said recently that he will introduce two bills, one that would decriminalize possession of less than 100 grams — or 3.5 ounces — of marijuana and another that would grant protection to states that decide to allow medicinal use of marijuana.

"The public is now ready for this," Rep. Frank said in a telephone interview. "I have long thought it was foolish to have these laws on the books, but now as I look at the public opinion, it's clear that this is wanted."(more)