Pubdate: Wed, 19 Apr 2017
Source: Globe and Mail (Canada)
Copyright: 2017 The Globe and Mail Company
Contact:  http://www.theglobeandmail.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/168
Author: William O'Meara
Page: A10

WEED WORRIES

Most of the critics of the new marijuana legislation complain that it
will affect people's health and, thus, legalization will contribute to
poor health outcomes. What are these people smoking? People already
smoke marijuana - Canada has one of the highest rates of marijuana
usage in the world. Do these naysayers seriously expect that, upon
legalization, the population is going to run out, en masse, and begin
smoking marijuana?

Teens smoking marijuana will be a problem. The evidence is becoming
clear that smoking at an early age can lead to mental health problems.
But teens smoke marijuana now, and their supply is likely contaminated
with mould, pesticides and who knows what else. At least under
legalization, the quality can be controlled, people working in the
industry will pay taxes (as opposed to criminals who do not), and
police will be free to pursue more important things. Legalization is
not a panacea, but it's a lot better than the status quo.

William O'Meara, Toronto
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MAP posted-by: Matt