Pubdate: Mon, 27 Jul 2009 Source: Times Union (Albany, NY) Copyright: 2009 Capital Newspapers Division of The Hearst Corporation Contact: http://www.timesunion.com/forms/emaileditor.asp Website: http://www.timesunion.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/452 Author: Kelly Moak HELP ECONOMY, LEGALIZE POT One of the most challenging problems in America today is our failing economy. We are in debt and in a recession that is causing problems for many people. It is of the utmost importance that we start finding solutions, and fast. Although the concept is quite controversial, the legalization of marijuana might be a giant step out of this economic crisis. In February, a California assemblyman introduced a bill that would legalize possession, cultivation, transportation, sale, purchase and use of marijuana for people 21 and older. Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger said he would veto such a bill, and marijuana is still only being sold in California for medicinal purposes. But Schwarzenegger and other officials should consider the positive effects of legalizing cannabis. If taxed, it could bring in billions of dollars that America desperately needs. I am not advocating smoking marijuana, and I'm not saying it doesn't have negative health effects. But smoking cigarettes and drinking alcohol also have negative effects, and both are legal in the United States. Potentially, this could be discussed on a federal level, and then it could really make a difference. Desperate times call for desperate measures, and I believe that the legalization of cannabis could help the country greatly. The ends would justify the means. Kelly Moak Nassau - --- MAP posted-by: Richard Lake