Pubdate: Mon, 11 Mar 2013
Source: Honolulu Star-Advertiser (HI)
Copyright: 2013 Star Advertiser
Contact: 
http://www.staradvertiser.com/info/Star-Advertiser_Letter_to_the_Editor.html
Website: http://www.staradvertiser.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/5154
Author: Bill Schroeder
Page: A16

POT USERS DESERVE DIGNITY AND RESPECT

Why does Hawaii have to propose the highest penalty in the country 
among (marijuana) decriminalized states?

The main issue involving Senate Bill 472 is whether someone has to go 
to jail or get a ticket. A ticket would save the cost of jailing and 
trial costs for more than 2,000 Hawaii citizens unfortunate enough to 
get arrested. Without the jailing requirement, there may be more 
enforcement of the law and this would generate more revenues via a 
simple ticket.

There are an estimated 100,000 regular marijuana smokers in Hawaii 
who deserve the dignity and respect of not being forced into jail if 
caught. Hawaii is behind the times in its marijuana laws and even 
some Bible Belt states have more liberal policies.

Medical marijuana patients have long been denied research and 
acceptance by the federal government and our state should reform its 
law to allow for some form of dispensaries to patients.

The marijuana market is potentially a $300 billion worldwide market. 
It should be governed and not left to anarchy. tell them what "we the 
people" want for our country.

There is a saying that with great freedom comes great responsibility. 
It is time for us citizens to become more responsible.

Bill Schroeder

Kailua
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom