That is the new limit under a new state law which takes effect January 1.

The increased possession limit is part of an effort to clear up ambiguities in the state's 1998 medical marijuana program.

One of the co-sponsors of the new medical marijuana law says it's aimed at putting the program "on more solid footing" by making it easier for police to interpret the law and harder for criminals to exploit it.

Current law allows cardholders and caregivers to grow three mature and four immature plants and to possess up to three ounces of dried marijuana.

Under the law, cardholders will be allowed to grow up to six mature plants and 18 seedlings. And they'll be able to possess 24 ounces of dried marijuana.

(Copyright 2005 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)