A medical marijuana group is recommending that Hawai'i enact laws making it easier for patients to get the drug and to increase the number of marijuana plants they can grow.

The Medical Cannabis Working Group outlined its suggestions at the state Capitol yesterday.

The group's report says patients need a way to get marijuana so they don't have to resort to the black market. It also proposes that caregivers be designated to provide marijuana to patients.

The Medical Cannabis Working Group was formed by medical marijuana advocates in October after Gov. Linda Lingle said the state couldn't afford to fund a task force passed into law over her objections.

The group is made up of medical professionals, patients and caregivers.