Under a measure approved Monday by the New Jersey Legislature, patients with chronic illnesses would be allowed to use marijuana to cope with their conditions.
If it becomes law, New Jersey would become the 14th state in the nation to allow patients with severe illnesses, such as AIDS, cancer and multiple sclerosis, access to marijuana grown and distributed through state-monitored dispensaries, The New York Times reported.
The measure was passed by the General Assembly and State Senate on the final day of the legislative session. Gov. Jon S. Corzine has pledged to sign the measure into law before he leaves office next Tuesday.
Within nine months, patients with a prescription for marijuana should be able to obtain the drug at one of six locations, according to supporters, The Times reported.