"On November 5, 1996, voters changed the complexion of the debate forever. Proposals were passed in California and Arizona that made "medical marijuana" available in California and all Schedule I drugs available by prescription in Arizona. In the months following the vote, concerned citizens in Arizona were able to overturn significant portions of this referendum with support from law enforcement and prosecuting attorneys. They convinced legislators to enact legislation insuring that proper scientific and medical criteria are used before any substance can be used as medicine. Leadership from the law enforcement community provided the needed direction to provide a truthful assessment of the proposition and to educate leaders about the terrible precedent that was being set. California law does not allow for such corrective action and presents a serious problem for those concerned with the damage that can occur from ill-conceived proposals that potentially legitimize "medical use" for a dangerous drug without the proper medical and scientific standards being adhered to. "
exerpt from
http://www.usdoj.gov/dea/demand/policechief.htm