Pubdate: Tue, 23 Oct 2007
Source: West Hawaii Today (HI)
Copyright: 2007 West Hawaii Today
Contact:  http://westhawaiitoday.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/644
Author: Mare Grace
Referenced: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v07/n1191/a10.html

A RIDICULOUS ASSERTION

Mr. Olson's letter opposing the legalization of marijuana is almost
too silly to need response.

There are certainly reasons to be cautious about this subject and to
think it through thoroughly, but none of his objections makes sense.

Obviously rules are in place governing the behavior of persons responsible
for public safety and testing for any type of drug use (including alcohol)
would be in place.

His assertion that it shouldn't be taxed because the government abuses
sales tax is just silly as is his assumption that it would be legal
for juveniles.

If it were treated similarly to alcohol and tobacco, it's difficult it
imagine it would be easier for them to obtain than it is now where
it's paired with real life-destroying substances.

You don't find dealers pushing beer or cigarettes on our high school
campuses.

However, these are points that have all been made previously.

What really spurred me to respond was his inference that 'users' are
the only people calling for a change in our current destructive and
costly drug policy.

I'm sure I'm not the only reader who felt insulted by this ridiculous
assertion.

Mare Grace

Waimea
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MAP posted-by: Larry Seguin