Pubdate: Thu, 14 Jan 2016
Source: Tennessean, The (Nashville, TN)
Copyright: 2016 The Tennessean
Contact: http://www.tennessean.com/SITES/OPINION/submit-editor.shtml
Website: http://www.tennessean.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/447
Author: Randy Smith

POT CAN PAY FOR ROADS

Are we sure, Tennessee? Are we absolutely sure that marijuana 
legalization isn't in our best interest?

While not a native of this state, I am rapidly learning that highway 
maintenance isn't a priority here.

Now, I don't know about you, but if a citizen wants to blaze in his 
own home, it should be his right. Let that consumer go to his local 
dispensary, make his purchase and contribute (above the outrageous 
nearly 10 percent sales taxes) to the general fund.

Now, may we use the monies in that fund to repair what feels like 
some of the worst highways in the United States?

Everyone knows that Interstate 40 is the busiest east-west interstate 
in the country, that is, except the Tennessee Department of Transportation.

Potholes large enough to cause accidents. Pitiful hot-mix repairs. No 
shoulders on U.S. highways?

And then there is the 440. TDOT, since you obviously have neither the 
money nor the good sense to make that road safe, may we request that 
you just cover the thing with gravel?

Maybe it will somehow fill the myriad holes in the road.

Drop the speed limit to 30; that's what everyone is having to drive 
now because of the pitiful road conditions.

Perhaps our politicians should focus on infrastructure just a little. 
No money? Legalize marijuana - it's here and it isn't going anywhere.

Randy Smith, Dickson 37055
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom