Pubdate: Thu, 22 Apr 2010
Source: New Times (San Luis Obispo, CA)
Copyright: 2010 New Times
Contact:  http://www.newtimesslo.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1277
Author: Jim Nelson

WORK ON THE DETAILS FOR LEGALIZING POT

The marijuana plant may be legalized in California by the November
ballot. Many controversies will ensue if it becomes legal. The
government claims it would gain billions of dollars if the herb is
legal, which would good for our state. Even though I am for
legalization, the law will be a conundrum for the Feds, the state, the
police, and the people. Regulatory issues are not being addressed. How
can the government compete with the black market or even individual
home growers who would avoid taxation? Why would an individual
purchase low-grade government herb if they could grow or obtain a
better product? Where is the enforcement going to come from, and will
those costs offset the supposed profit? Are we going to ask cops to
start peeking into citizens' backyards? The ambiguity is overwhelming
and not being properly addressed.

The California lottery proposition passed because it was sold as "good
for education." We know now the positive expectations of that
referendum are questionable. The claims that legalization will aid/fix
this state's insolvency problems are illogical at this time. State
legislators need to identify potential conflicts if marijuana is
legalized, but given their track record for solving state budget
problems, I am not optimistic.

Jim Nelson

Cayucos
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MAP posted-by: Richard Lake