Pubdate: Wed, 07 May 2003
Source: Atlanta Journal-Constitution (GA)
Section: Sports
Copyright: 2003 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Contact:  http://www.accessatlanta.com/ajc/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/28
Cited: Texas NORML http://www.normltexas.org
NORML http://www.norml.org
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/people/Stepnoski (Mark Stepnoski)

STEPNOSKI: JUST SAY NO... TO TOUGH POT LAWS

New York - Former Dallas Cowboys lineman Mark Stepnoski has taken his share 
of hits - on the field and off.

As president of the Texas chapter of the National Organization for the 
Reform of Marijuana Laws, the former Pro Bowler now actively works with 
NORML in an effort to change public perception about marijuana use, its 
effects and those using the drug.

"You can't have amotivational syndrome if you're going to play in the NFL," 
Stepnoski says. "Since I was a kid, I wanted to play in the NFL. Even 
though I occasionally used marijuana, it never prevented me from attaining 
my goals."

Stepnoski, who won two Super Bowl rings while with Dallas, also contends 
more athletes would publicly support NORML's cause if not for fear of 
reprisals.

"If there is one thing that is stopping people from speaking out, it's the 
fear of greater scrutiny," he says. "It's not just the police. It's the 
IRS. People don't want to give up everything they've worked for just 
because they believe marijuana laws should be changed.

"We're trying to get marijuana reclassified so people can pay a ticket 
instead of going to jail," says Stepnoski. "The punishment doesn't fit the 
crime." 
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MAP posted-by: Richard Lake