Pubdate: Tue, 16 May 2000 Date: 05/16/2000 Source: Vancouver Sun (CN BC) Author: Robert Smith It seems I'm one of the majority of British Columbians who would prefer marijuana use decriminalized, "Cannabis: Should B.C. follow the U.S. approach?" May 12, but we must be careful what we wish for. For a start, we can forget the idea that existing methods of cultivation and distribution would continue. Big tobacco would be into the business faster than you can say "Mary Jane". Sure, the odd home-grow operation might continue, but most of the people making money from dope now could kiss their ash goodbye. The government would want in on the act, too, There would be duty and tax, and picture i.d. - because there would have to be an age limit. Then there would be the "don't toke and drive" counterattack campaigns, with random breath and blood testing. In any case, the campaign to legalize cannabis has little to do with the drug itself. It's mostly just adolescence manifesting itself the way it always does - through rebellion, protest and defiance. If marijuana was legalized it would fall from favour faster than a Grizzlies head coach. Robert Smith, Vancouver