SAN DIEGO -- On Monday, for the first time, San Diego County began issuing medical marijuana cards.

Many sick and dying San Diegans are one step closer to using medical marijuana without the fear of arrest.

"I'm very excited and happy. We've worked for a half a decade to see this day," said Dion Markgraaff.

Markgraaff said he needs marijuana for his diabetes and neuropathic pain and is glad San Diego is finally issuing ID cards.

Fifty-six percent of California voters supported Proposition 215 in 1996 that made medical marijuana legal.

However, the county sued over state laws, asking for clarity since federal law bans marijuana.

The U.S. Supreme Court rejected the case in May.

"We had to wait until all the legal matters were settled before implementing the program," said Adrienne Collins Yancey of the San Diego County Health Department.

But now the wait is over, and those with a recommendation from their physician can apply for a card.

A card costs $166, and those with Medi-Cal will pay only $83.

"It's ridiculous. It's very expensive and costly," said Markgraaff.

The county said their fees are in line with other counties and explained the money is necessary.

Yancey said, "$66 is sent to the state of California; that's the administration fee. The other $100 that is kept here in San Diego is to cover our expenses for implementation of the program."

State law leaves it up to counties to regulate the use and distribution of medical marijuana, and so far the rules in San Diego are vague.

For those like Markgraaff, even with the card there is still debate over whether drug agents in San Diego County will stop raiding storefronts and dispensaries in the county.

"Unless our local government makes specific rules and guidelines for these places, I feel that they're very vulnerable for law enforcement attacks," said Markgraaff.

County health officials said 26 appointments have been made this week to apply for a card, though they said they take walk-ins as well.