I write to endorse the Great Neck News editorial that criticized North Hempstead for its restrictions on medical marijuana sales.

By relegating dispensaries to out-of-the-way locations, the new law effectively discriminates against persons with disabilities and serious medical illnesses — individuals who are least likely to easily drive to or have transportation to these locations. (Will the town provide transportation or allow its Project Independence-funded cab service, to go to those locations?)

I would argue that these people have a right to a quality life.

This discrimination does not affect “others.” It affects our grandparents, our parents, and our adult siblings who need alternative treatments for serious conditions with serious symptoms.

Medical marijuana may mitigate those symptoms and allow our family members and neighbors to live better lives. The law flies in the face of compassion.

And let’s use the word “pandering” for the officials who followed the will of non-caring, self-serving constituents who were happy to discriminate against those with medical challenges.

Dr. Mark Winiarski

Licensed Psychologist

Great Neck