Pubdate: Thu, 25 Feb 2016
Source: Arizona Republic (Phoenix, AZ)
Copyright: 2016 The Arizona Republic
Contact: http://www.azcentral.com/arizonarepublic/opinions/sendaletter.html
Website: http://www.azcentral.com/arizonarepublic/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/24
Author: Tony Ryan

DON'T JEER MARIJUANA REGULATION; IT HAS BEEN WORKING IN COLORADO

A rise in suspensions and expulsions caused by students' marijuana 
use is truly an issue, and we should be (I certainly am) working on solutions.

But, prohibition hasn't worked - kids can still buy marijuana! 
Fifty-eight million dollars in tax revenue isn't a "mere drop in the 
bucket" for taxpayers who want the best for our kids or for the 
countless students who benefit from better-funded schools.

Last year, our state's school system ranked 48th out of 51. We 
shouldn't pretend like we have the luxury of turning down millions of dollars.

Being a retired Denver police officer of 36 years (supervising and 
commanding street officers for 26 of those), I am proud to have 
assisted in marijuana regulation efforts in 2012 because it reduces 
crime and the costs associated with a prohibited substance, and gives 
police more time to deal with real crimes.

Homicides and other violent crimes are down and vehicle fatalities 
are near historic lows in Colorado. The fact remains: Marijuana is 
still illegal for persons under the age of 21. We want the kids to be 
safe just as much as you do; we just happen to have an actual solution.

Lt. Tony Ryan (Ret.)

- - Sahuarita
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom