comment: >
  
  The difference between fetal alcohol syndrome and this case is that the mother was prescribed cannabis by her doctor who knew her condition. Doctors rarely prescribe alcohol for anything.
context: Headline is misleading. It implies that marijuana use during pregnancy is not illegal in AZ. That is incorrect.
  A patient was prescribed medical marijuana for chronic nausea, the doctor was notified that she was pregnant, and still allowed use.
  While there is no definitive link between marijuana use and poor infant outcomes, it is a risk factor. >
  
  The court ruled that doctor prescribed medical marijuana to a patient the dr knows is pregnant absolves the patient from any claims of child abuse from the use.  
  So what about the usage is NOT legal?   Or what crime did the patient still commit despite the court ruling if you believe it is incorrect to say the usage was not illegal? >
  
  I’m…saying the same thing you are. For this patient, it was not illegal. But, in general, marijuana usage while pregnant can lead to criminal charges. >
  
  It's almost like weed in moderation has practical applications. >
  
  Kind of a strange ruling for judges to find that there is no neglect where a substance is taken legally.  Children born with fetal alcohol syndrome are subject to neglect even though alcohol consumption is legal (in fact Arizona has a specific provision for that diagnosis constituting neglect).  I'm not familiar with research regarding pregnancy and marijuana use, but it seems like the test shouldn't be whether it is legal but whether it harms the child.  I suspect the science is not resolved on that question.