HILO — A state judge on the Big Island is considering dismissing drug charges against two medical marijuana patients trying to take their pot on interisland flights.

West Hawaii Today reports Public Defender Belinda Hill filed motions to dismiss the charges faced by Donna Goldsworthy and Alan Lee.

The two defendants signed stipulations admitting they were in possession of marijuana. Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Andrew Son stipulated the two had valid medical marijuana certificates when they were charged and their marijuana confiscated.

District Judge Barbara Takase said Thursday that she will issue written findings at a Dec. 15 hearing.

The state Department of Public Safety says transportation of medical marijuana is protected.