Pubdate: Thu, 20 Jan 2005
Source: Vancouver Sun (CN BC)
Copyright: 2005 The Vancouver Sun
Contact:  http://www.canada.com/vancouver/vancouversun/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/477
Author: Mike Spindloe
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/mjcn.htm (Cannabis - Canada)
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/decrim.htm (Decrim/Legalization)

POT PROHIBITION IS A FAILED SOCIAL POLICY

Re: B.C. jails one in 7 pot growers; Vancouver jails only one in 13, Jan. 18

Excuse me, but why are we jailing any pot growers? We should be licensing 
them and forcing them to pay taxes, just like every other business.

Prohibition is a failed social policy that wastes resources and creates the 
dangerous conditions inherent in any black market. We have ample proof that 
it is counter-productive.

How much do we spend every year to bust 1,500 grow-ops and run their owners 
through the court system in a futile attempt to eradicate a beautiful and 
useful plant? Want to balance the Vancouver police budget? Stop encouraging 
them to waste their time and resources attempting to enforce unenforceable 
and frankly nonsensical laws.

The recent Senate committee report recommended legalization of marijuana. 
What are we waiting for? American approval?

Mike Spindloe

Vancouver 
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MAP posted-by: Beth