Another sound judgment from the US Supreme Court...

The US Supreme Court let stand the 9th Circuit ruling in Walters v. Conant. By refusing to review the case, the high court affirmed that the federal government cannot revoke licenses for doctors who recommend medical marijauana to patients.

(yet another reason why I love the 9th Circuit!)

this is great news for all those doctors out there, and for patients. Not that I am advocating marijuana use, but it is imperative that patients feel safe about discussing the matter with their doctors, and that doctors are protected from criminal liability or revocation of their licenses for discussing the matter with their patients.

Utimately, to use or not to use is the choice of the patient. Under the present requirements for receiving a medical marijuana patient card, the doctors must certify that they have discussed the effects of marijuana use with their patients. Also, it is a requirement that the doctor certify that the patient has expressed that they feel pain relief from marijuana use.

doctors must also warn patients that they are not to operate heavy machinery, drive cars, etc. while taking their 'medication' -- just like the warning labels on Rush Limbaugh's prescription drugs.

My liberatarian leanings come apparent on this issue particularly. As with abortion rights, patients must stand firm and say, "Government, get your laws off my body."