Pubdate: Thu, 11 Dec 2003 Source: Winnipeg Sun (CN MB) Copyright: 2003 Canoe Limited Partnership Contact: http://www.fyiwinnipeg.com/winsun.shtml Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/503 Note: Parenthetical remark by the Sun editor. WASHINGTON SHOULD BE THRILLED The so-called "decrim" bill (C-38) is actually so draconian in its penalties for growing and trafficking, that Washington should be very pleased. If this bill passes, then growing 51 pot plants would be worse than armed robbery, assault, rape, or even manslaughter. C-38 will "raise the stakes" in the illegal grow-op business, making it more lucrative. The urban violence will likely increase. Canadians want sensible drug legislation aimed at harm reduction, cannabis regulation, and generating huge tax revenues. In The Netherlands, teen pot consumption is less than 8%, compared to the current Canadian teen average of almost 30%. This is thanks to prohibition, not "slack drug laws." Russell Barth Ottawa (The bill is completely at odds with itself.) - --- MAP posted-by: Richard Lake