As the New Mexico Department of Health struggles to create a medical-marijuana distribution system mandated by state lawmakers, some advocates say that interim rules are not adequate for the needs of patients, the Santa Fe New Mexican reported Sept. 8.

"It's a very complicated program," said health department spokesperson Deborah Busemeyer. "We consider this a medicine that will provide relief to people. But it comes down to balancing access for patient needs with public safety."

Currently, interim rules under the state's medical-marijuana law allow patients to grow up to four mature plans and possess up to six ounces of marijuana. "This definition of adequate supply will not be enough for many patients," said Reena Szczepanski, director of Drug Policy Alliance New Mexico, who said that some patients use a quarter-ounce of marijuana a day.

Szczepanski said that doctors should be allowed to authorize patients to keep a larger supply as long as they get clearance from the state.

Nonprofit groups can currently operate as medical-marijuana producers, but attendees at a recent public hearing noted that establishing a nonprofit organization requires notification of the federal government, which considers all marijuana possession illegal. The Drug Policy Alliance wants caregivers as well as nonprofits and patients to be authorized to grow the drug for medical use.

"Until these nonprofit agencies are formed, patients need other access," Szczepanski said.

Advocates also objected to a proposed rule that would allow state health officials to enter and inspect the homes of medical-marijuana patients.