Public weighs in on medical pot

DIMONDALE, Mich. (WOOD) - With Michigan's medical marijuana law set to take effect in April, a hearing is underway to give the public a chance to weigh in on the proposed rules.

About 100 people are in attendance at a Michigan Department of Community Health hearing room near Lansing. While voters approved the measure, which allows limited use of marijuana for certain medical conditions, in November, the state has until April to set the rules.

Greg Francisco of the Michigan Medical Marijuana Association said many of the rules are too restrictive, and some violate privacy.

"Rules that are unenforceable, that extend the reach of government beyond the very clear limits that are established in the act, or that are overly burdensome or technical are rules that can invite violations," Francisco said.

"I know we're going to get some criticism and that's understandable," countered James McCurtis of the Michigan Department of Community Health. "But again, we've held the public hearing so we can hear what people have to say so we can take everything they say into consideration."

One provision with the law requires medical marijuana to be locked up while not in use. But supporters say there are no requirements to lock up other prescription drugs in a user's home.

Supporters say they're worried users may end up violating the law, even though Michigan voters approved the measure.

Thirteen states, including Michigan, allow the use of medical marijuana.