Pubdate: Fri, 13 Sep 2002 Source: Airdrie Echo (CN AB) Copyright: 2002 Airdrie Echo Contact: http://www.airdrieecho.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1558 Author: Joe Hueglin POT PROPOSAL SHOULD GO UP IN SMOKE Dear Editor: The Canadian Senate's proposal to legalize marijuana and regulate its usage in the same manner as alcohol, though with a lowered age of legal access, raises as yet unanswered questions. Will those cannabis products such as hashish and hash oil containing higher concentrations of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) be legalized as well? Will driving after use be subject to legal sanction? If so, is there a test which can be performed on the spot by law enforcement officers? What specific methodology will be employed in distinguishing between those 16 years old and younger? In that alcohol is produced and distributed under controlled conditions, will the production, distribution and content of the active ingredient for cannabis products be similarly regulated and inspected and will non-authorized production and sale be illegal? What is the level of taxation which will be attached to the sale of cannabis products? Answers to these questions are necessary before the public can make an informed decision on the practical effects of implementing the Report of the Senate Committee on Illegal Drugs. Joe Hueglin - --- MAP posted-by: Beth