Pubdate: Fri, 10 Apr 2009 Source: Connecticut Post (Bridgeport, CT) Copyright: 2009sMediaNews Group, Inc Contact: http://www.connpost.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/574 Author: Karen L. Evans Referenced: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v09/n401/a02.html TIME HAS COME TO UPDATE DRUG LAWS I understand that the initial knee-jerk reaction is negative to legislation before the General Assembly regarding the reduction of penalties for the possession of small amounts of marijuana. It stems from the smokescreen of misinformation we have been inundated with by the government and other interested parties who profit from the continuing war on drugs. But we must see through this smokescreen to the truth. By now, most of us have either tried marijuana or know someone who has. We know from experience that it is not the evil, harmful drug that it is purported to be. In fact, it is significantly less harmful than many prescription drugs out there. Is it really worth the millions of state tax dollars spent each year prosecuting otherwise law-abiding, contributing members of our society? This isn't a war on drugs; it is a war against our families, friends and neighbors, the consequences of which reverberate throughout our society. I urge readers to educate themselves with the facts provided by objective sources and to then please contact our state lawmakers and help make a change that is long overdue in a rational, free democracy. It is time to see the smokescreen for what it really is. Karen L. Evans Beacon Falls - --- MAP posted-by: Larry Seguin