NATION SHOULD CONSIDER RELAXING MARIJUANA LAWS

As Americans, the concepts of freedom and justice should always be on
our minds. This country has come a long way in guaranteeing certain
inalienable rights, but any responsible citizen must realize that
there is plenty of room for progress.

The decriminalization of marijuana is no doubt a controversial issue,
but it is the next logical step in our path towards freedom. There
are numerous shocking statistics on the subject of cannabis, such as
the U.S. prison population, the lost revenue due to the prohibition
of hemp production, and the health effects of smoking marijuana. I
encourage everyone to read about the subject from a variety of
sources to become educated on the matter, as there is more than I can
include here. After extensive research, I have come to believe that
this country would be a safer and more pleasant place by lifting the
prohibition on marijuana. There is no proof that marijuana has caused
a single death. Meanwhile, money is spent towards the war on drugs,
and the incarceration of peaceful users that could otherwise be spent
improving our nation's schools.

Like every aspect of public policy, this is an issue that affects us
all and it should be treated seriously. Many people in our local
community have become victims of this human rights violation.
Although such a problem is best dealt with on the national level, you
can start by reading up on all the facts and sharing information with
friends. Talk to health-care professionals, politicians, and even
those who are against legalization in order to form an educated opinion.

Richard Leahy

Senior, College of Science