Pubdate: Sat, 24 Nov 2001
Source: Wichita Eagle (KS)
Copyright: 2001 The Wichita Eagle
Contact:  http://www.wichitaeagle.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/680
Author: Robert Sharpe

Reader Views

REGULATE POT

David Broder's column on the recent U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration 
raid on a California medical-marijuana club highlighted the absurdity of 
waging a $50 billion war on consensual vices at a time when the country 
faces the all too real threat of international terrorism ("DEA fighting 
wrong battle with marijuana raid," Nov. 11 Eagle opinion pages). Not only 
should medical marijuana be made available to cancer and AIDS patients in 
need, but adult recreational use also should be taxed and regulated.

As long as marijuana distribution remains in the hands of organized crime, 
consumers will continue to come into contact with hard drugs such as meth. 
Taxing and regulating marijuana is a cost-effective alternative to the 
failed drug war.

ROBERT SHARPE

The Lindesmith Center-Drug Policy Foundation

Washington, D.C.
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MAP posted-by: Beth