PASS THE TRUTH IN TRIALS ACT

SAMPLE LETTER to your representative urging support for the Truth in Trials Act, which allows a medical defense in federal marijuana trials

April 20, 2003

The Honorable Nancy Pelosi
U.S. House of Representatives
2371 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, DC 20515

Dear Representative Pelosi:

I'm writing to ask you to support HR 1717, a new bill in Congress that would provide an affirmative defense for medical marijuana defendants in federal court.

HR 1717 would recognize state laws that allow marijuana's medical uses and provide an affirmative defense to federal charges if a defendant was in compliance with state law.

On January 31, a federal jury convicted Ed Rosenthal of marijuana cultivation charges carrying a five-year mandatory minimum sentence. He currently awaits sentencing.

Throughout the trial, the judge prevented the jury from considering - or even learning - that Mr. Rosenthal grew marijuana for use by the seriously ill, while acting as an officer of the City of Oakland to implement California's Compassionate Use Act. Since learning the whole truth, the majority of the panel has recanted their verdict and asked for both a new trial for Mr. Rosenthal and a change in the law.

Please work with Representatives Sam Farr, Lynn Woolsey and Dana Rohrabacher to support HR 1717, the "Truth in Trials Act". I urge you to become a co-sponsor of the Truth in Trials Act, by contacting Rochelle Dornatt in the office of Representative Farr at (202) 225-2861.

I look forward to learning how you plan to support HR 1717.

Sincerely,

Your Name Here