Pubdate: Thu, 31 Jan 2008 Source: Boston Herald (MA) Copyright: 2008 The Boston Herald, Inc Contact: http://news.bostonherald.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/53 Referenced: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v08/n099/a02.html Author: Dixon George FOR REEFER SANITY As a parent and grandparent I take offense at the simplistic and damaging arguments of the opponents to the Massachusetts marijuana decriminalization initiative (Jan. 27). District Attorney Michael O'Keefe says that this measure will send the wrong message to children. Yet he supports the current law, which creates a criminal record, or CORI, for young people who are caught possessing a small amount of marijuana. CORI can render young people ineligible for student loans, employment, a professional license or housing. That is the wrong message to send to young people: One mistake and you'll be punished for the rest of your life. The initiative requires the police to notify parents, the young person to complete a drug awareness program plus community service, and that the fine is paid. Eleven states have passed similar laws and they have seen no increase in marijuana use. Dixon George, Littleton - --- MAP posted-by: Richard Lake