Pubdate: Sat, 21 Sep 2002
Source: Los Angeles Times (CA)
Copyright: 2002 Los Angeles Times
Contact:  http://www.latimes.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/248
Author: Kelli Reed
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/pot.htm (Cannabis)
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/decrim.htm (Decrim/Legalization)

KEEP STRIVING TOWARD A RATIONAL DRUG POLICY

I am a strong believer that no matter what is legal or illegal,
teenagers do what they want to do. Those in this age group are easily
influenced by the older age group, which they are surrounded by daily.
If a teenager wants to smoke cigarettes illegally or drink under age,
he or she will. Rules are made to be broken.

Marijuana is illegal for any person; however, teenagers and adults
both have their hands on it. If this drug becomes legal it will only
make it easier to consume. The usage won't increase or decrease, it
will only be legal to buy. Legalizing marijuana will not lead to the
abuse of any other illicit drugs, it will only be as common as the use
of alcohol.

Kelli Reed, Valencia
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MAP posted-by: Terry Liittschwager