Pubdate: Tue, 23 Mar 2004
Source: Tullahoma News (TN)
Copyright: The Tullahoma News 2004
Contact: 
http://www.zwire.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=49033&BRD=1614&PAG=461&dept_id=161070&
Website: http://www.tullahomanews.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/2031
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/find?224 (Cannabis and Driving)

BLACKMAIL AHEAD?

Some people in Congress are pushing a "zero-tolerance" bill to eliminate 
driving under the influence of illegal drugs. State officials are nervous 
about the idea, and with good reason.

Unlike alcohol, there is no standard for drugs that defines impairment; in 
the eight states that have "drugged driving" laws, standards have been 
vague. Nor is there a portable device that would enable police to test 
drivers suspected of driving while on drugs.

Rep. Jon Porter, R-Nev., who introduced the bill, wants to offer 
cooperating states incentives - money to train police and prosecutors and 
to counsel drivers. Other members of Congress who - true to form - want to 
punish states that balk are ignoring sensible appeals from the Governors 
Highway Safety Association to postpone action.

We believe current laws, which can charge a person with "driving under the 
influence" whatever the substance, are adequate. But don't be surprised if 
Congress gives in to its perennial impulse to blackmail states into 
complying with its will.

- - Reprinted from The Canton (Ohio) Repository
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MAP posted-by: Terry Liittschwager