New marijuana policy released

EAST PROVIDENCE, R.I.(WPRI) - President Barack Obama's administration has released its new medical marijuana policy.

The administration said it will not look to arrest those who use and supply medical marijuana as long as they follow specific state laws.

"For patients and caregivers it means they're protected. That way you don't have to worry about somebody coming in and raiding their supply, making sure they do have their medicine and they have safe access," said Stephen Hogan Jr.

The Justice Department's new policy is a significant departure from the Bush Administration's policy, which insisted it would continue to enforce federal anti-pot laws regardless of state codes.

Fourteen states, including Rhode Island - allows some use of marijuana for medical purposes.