Pubdate: Wed, 20 Jul 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: Bob Kritzberg

REVENUE, YES, BUT LEGALIZED POT WOULD GENERATE A LOT OF ILLS, TOO

Why must it always come down to money? It is obvious from much that 
has been printed regarding the legalization of marijuana in Arizona 
that the negative effects of pot far outweigh any benefits.

People can clamor that it will decrease crimes related to drug 
trafficking, etc. and perhaps that is so to a degree, but what about 
the effects its use will have on our teenagers and others? You can 
bet they will be using it in greater amounts than they do now with 
many untoward side effects.

If you have ever dealt with someone that has used pot, as I have, it 
is obvious that their behavior is altered and they lose any sense of 
responsibility. And yes, it can be a gateway to other drugs and 
greater dependency.

For sure, Arizona would probably make a lot of money, but to what 
end? Who really benefits? The people selling the pot, for one. There 
will definitely be all of the same problems Colorado and Washington 
face .. more traffic accidents, greater crime, and work-related 
problems to mention just a few. There are other ways to get high that 
don't require the use of marijuana. Vote no to the legalization of marijuana.

- - Bob Kritzberg, Glendale
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom