Pubdate: Mon, 28 Jan 2013
Source: Wall Street Journal (US)
Copyright: 2013 Tony Newman
Contact:  http://www.wsj.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/487
Author: Tony Newman
Referenced: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v13/n037/a04.html
Note: First of 4 LTEs on this subject

POT PROHIBITION, REGULATION, AND DANGER TO THE YOUNG

The defenders of the status quo say that we can't end marijuana
prohibition because it "sends the wrong message to the kids" and will
increase teen drug use ("Legalizing Pot Won't Make it Any Safer" by
Mitchell S. Rosenthal, op-ed, Jan. 17).

Ironically, prohibition is a complete failure when it comes to keeping
young people from using drugs. Despite decades of DARE programs with
the simplistic "Just Say No" message, 50% of teenagers will try
marijuana before they graduate. Young people also feel the brunt of
marijuana enforcement and make up the majority of arrests. Arresting
young people will often cause more damage than drug use itself.
Teenagers need honest drug education to help them make responsible
decisions. We have cut down on teen smoking without tobacco
prohibition and without one arrest.

Tony Newman

Drug Policy Alliance

New York
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MAP posted-by: Jo-D