Pubdate: Fri, 15 Feb 2002
Source: Herald, The (WA)
Copyright: 2002 The Daily Herald Co.
Contact:  http://www.heraldnet.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/190
Author: Michael Fischer
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/hemp.htm (Hemp)

DEA BAN

Removing Hemp Products Is Silly

Effective Feb. 6, the Drug Enforcement Administration has ordered 
that any food containing hemp be removed from store shelves. Is the 
DEA responding to a new scientific report linking hemp-related foods 
to drug abuse? No, Americans are not getting high on their breakfast 
granola, and their nightly ice cream isn't serving as a "gateway" to 
heroin addiction.

DEA officials claim the ban is required by law because hemp and 
marijuana are derived from the same plant. In fact, the DEA is 
reinterpreting existing law, and adding new language, to advance a 
misguided agenda. The DEA makes no distinction between the huge 
benefits of industrial hemp and the harm caused by marijuana use.

Hemp has been used safely for thousands of years. It has a long 
tradition in American history, having been used to make food, 
clothing, paper, even ropes and sails for our naval defense. The hemp 
industry is inventive and environmentally friendly. Hemp-based foods 
are nutritious, completely non-hallucinogenic and actually taste good.

The arguments of the DEA lack scientific credibility and contradict 
sound legal thinking. The DEA seems intent on destroying honest jobs, 
thereby creating a bizarre black market for hemp waffles, hemp salad 
dressing and hemp soap. Please write to your elected representatives 
to demand that the DEA abandon this asinine order.

MICHAEL FISCHER

Everett
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