Arguments to conclude in medical pot hearing

HELENA — A judge is expected to finish hearing arguments on whether to block Montana's new medical marijuana law from taking effect July 1.

AP Photo/The Independent Record, Eliza Wile

Dr. Jack Hensold, a Bozeman oncologist, testifies via teleconference Monday in Judge Jim Reynolds' district courtroom in Helena. Hensold is concerned about the ability of patients to obtain medical marijuana after a new law takes effect July 1.

The two-day hearing continued Tuesday before Helena District Judge James Reynolds. The Montana Cannabis Industry Association says the law is unconstitutional and is asking Reynolds to issue an injunction to prevent it from taking effect.

The new law eliminates commercial pot operations by banning profits on marijuana sales. It also asks for additional proof from patients seeking a medical marijuana card for a serious illness and adds checks to doctors who recommend medical pot for their patients.

State attorneys say the law will eliminate medical marijuana abuses. On Monday, several doctors and patients testified that the new law would make it difficult for people to obtain medical marijuana.