Pubdate: Fri, 10 Jan 2014
Source: Pittsburgh Post-Gazette (PA)
Copyright: 2014 PG Publishing Co., Inc.
Contact: http://drugsense.org/url/pm4R4dI4
Website: http://www.post-gazette.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/341
Author: Greg Parks

MARIJUANA LEGALIZATION WOULD BE GOOD FOR STATE COFFERS

I have been following the events in Colorado and around the nation 
with great interest. The legalization of pot would provide a new 
revenue stream for state governments and, if done correctly, reduce 
the tax burden on working families, freeing up the ever popular 
"disposable income" to spur the economy. Marijuana use, just like 
tobacco and alcohol, is voluntary, so the taxes are voluntary. You 
want to use the product, pay the tax.

One problem, of course, is the overreaching federal government. The 
possession, distribution and use of pot are illegal.

One could argue that the legalization of pot would cut into the 
government's profits and harm the so-called "war on drugs," which is 
nothing more than a front to confiscate property, take our rights 
away and spend billions of dollars of our money.

It will be interesting to see if the feds keep their "hands-off" approach.

The naysayers will argue that pot legalization will lead to the end 
of the United States as we know it. Others will argue that marijuana 
usage is a health issue, hurting the user and adding to health care 
costs. The reality is this: The United States is in trouble because 
parents don't want to parent; they want to be friends with their 
kids. Parents are not involved in their children's education and 
would rather have video games, television, movies and various 
community programs babysit and raise their kids.

As for the health issue, if the government and health advocacy groups 
were serious about the health of the nation, alcoholic beverages and 
tobacco would be illegal. We know that both are bad for the body, but 
government is addicted to the tax revenue.

I say smoke 'em if you got 'em, have a drink on me and don't bogart 
that joint, my friend. In the end personal freedom and responsibility 
should always trump government control of our lives and choices.

GREG PARKS

Bethel Park
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