I agree, Peter...but I don't think it's inevitable in this country.  In fact it is still very much illegal all over the world, with reasonable tolerance in Canada, Australia and parts of Europe.   I'm for all out legalization (personal use), but at the very least if that is never to occur, I can't say it loudly enough that people who genuinely (genuinely) benefit from cannabis for medical reasons, should have legal access to cannabis in a controlled fashion.  Physician's prescription should be honored without any obstacles.  It has been used as a medicinal agent for thousands of years, and without significant adverse effect.  Smoke inhalation is not a great thing for the lungs, but interestingly enough, there has never been a single proven case of lung or laryngeal carcinoma in a cannabis smoker where tobacco was not also used.  A vaporizer is a more healthful alternative where smoke is of concern, and I think their purchase should be subsidized for a patient on marijuana therapy, where such prescription is dispensed in a pharmacy (much the same way as oxygen tanks, CPAP units for Sleep Apnea,  BP cuffs for hypertension etc..).   Sure,  there is plenty of tar in pot smoke, but the character of the tar must be different than tobacco, because scientific evidence has never shown a link between mj smoke and lung cancer nor emphysema (unless the person is also a tobacco smoker).  One of the theories is the Polonium 121 in tobacco, but that's another discussion altogether.  Oddly enough (can't figure this one out), there have been a couple of papers showing actual anti-carcinogenicity of cannabinoids.

There is a distinct difference between recreational drug use (which I still believe should be a free choice in adults), and medicinal use (any agent).  

When are we going to see some compassion and reason in this country?   Ditto Euthanasia, ditto treatment for chronic pain....