State Approves the Use of Medical Marijuana

The state became the 11th to legalize medical marijuana -- and the first since the Supreme Court ruled in June that patients who used the drug could still be prosecuted under federal law -- when the state House of Representatives overrode a veto by Republican Gov. Donald R. Carcieri.

The measure, approved by a vote of 59 to 13, allows people with illnesses such as cancer and AIDS to grow as many as 12 marijuana plants or to buy marijuana to relieve their symptoms. Those who do are required to register with the state and get an identification card.