New Jersey moves closer to becoming the 14th state to allow patients to use marijuana for medical reasons.
The Senate Health Committee advanced a bill Monday on the compassionate use of the drug by people suffering from AIDS, cancer, multiple sclerosis and other chronic conditions.
A hearing two years ago brought celebrity Montel Williams to the New Jersey Statehouse. He is a multiple sclerosis sufferer who uses marijuana regularly.
New Jerseyans approved by state officials would be allowed to grow up to six marijuana plants or buy the drug at specially designated centers.
Most of the other states that began allowing medical marijuana have done so through ballot referendums. In New Jersey, the law must be changed by the Legislature.
Copyright AP - Associated Press
