PROVIDENCE -- Rhode Island became the third state in the nation Tuesday to permit marijuana sales to chronically ill patients.
Lawmakers in the General Assembly voted Tuesday to override a veto from the Republican governor, who warned the measure will promote illegal drug use. The override vote was unanimous in the House. Senators voted 35-3 to override.
Rhode Island began allowing medical patients to possess marijuana in 2006, but it never created a sanctioned means of buying the drug. About 600 Rhode Islanders are enrolled in the state's Medical Marijuana Program.
"This gives a safe haven for those who have to go into seedy areas to try to get marijuana," said Rep. Thomas Slater, the bill's sponsor.
The law allows three licensed compassion centers to sell marijuana and equipment to registered patients. But before the dispensaries can open, the state Department of Health has to issue regulations and set up a licensing process.
Related Link: Rhode Island Medical Marijuana Program
Gov. Don Carcieri released a statement saying he was disappointed by the override and that the law will create a public perception that Rhode Island is complacent about illegal drugs.
President Barack Obama's administration has said it will not target stores that comply with state law.
Rhode Island becomes the third state, after California and New Mexico, to allow dispensaries for medical marijuana.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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