The Washington Times reported May 5 that Frank's legislation would shield doctors in the 10 states that currently have medical-marijuana laws. Frank has proposed similar measures in the past, but the latest bill has attracted some bipartisan support.

"The federal government should butt out," said Rep. Dana Rohrabacher (R-Calif.). Added Rep. Ron Paul (R-Texas): "The only problem with this bill is it's so modest."

Paul said that the fact that he could survive primaries and elections in a conservative Texas district despite his position on the nation's drug laws should encourage others to support the bill. "I hope my example is such that maybe they'll reconsider that and vote the right way," he said.

Standing in the way, however, is Rep. Mark Souder (R-Ind.), chair of the House subcommittee with jurisdiction over criminal justice, drug policy, and human resources. Souder has repeatedly said that he does not consider marijuana a legitimate medicine. "Patients who are smoking marijuana are being denied legitimate care that could improve rather than worsen their medical conditions," Souder said.

To avoid Souder's committee, supporters of Frank's measure may try to add it to an appropriations bill.

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