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. - --- MAP posted-by: Beth