Libous does not think medicinal marijuana will pass in Senate

6/14/2012 (Updated 11:03:36 PM)

Legalization of medical marijuana in New York will not get the support of the State Senate, according to Tom Libous.

The bill, which passed the assembly this week, would allow certified patients to possess small amounts of marijuana, under the supervision of a doctor or other health professional.

The bill is now on its way to the Senate, but Thursday night State Senator Tom Libous said he didn't think it will pass in his chamber.

"If you have a terminal disease and you're in pain and it can relieve that pain, if it's helpful like taking morphine or other strong painkillers, I can be compassionate and understand that," said Libous.  "However, I think dispensing it in New York State is the issue, they have done a miserable job in California.  Every account that I've read and that I've seen is that it's out of control.  Therefore I am not prepared to move forward at this time."

Libous pointed out that the state just passed the I-Stop Law that prevents doctor shopping and prescription drug abuse.

He said legalizing medical marijuana would add another one for people to abuse.