LAWMAKER GIVES OUT FREE PASSES TO 'TRAFFIC'

Here's a traffic ticket a lawmaker might welcome.

Rep. Joseph Thompson, an Albuquerque Republican, began on Wednesday
distributing free passes to his colleagues to see the drug-war drama
"Traffic."

"It's terrific," said Thompson, a friend and ally of Gov. Gary
Johnson, a critic of the nation's war on drugs.

Johnson is promoting a package of drug bills that includes some
decriminalization and reduced penalties.

The movie passes were paid for by the Lindesmith Center-Drug Policy
Foundation, a research institute and a key supporter of Johnson's drug
efforts.

"My understanding is (the movie) does an excellent job of highlighting
just how complicated the issue is, and how important it is to have a
public debate," said Katharine Huffman, director of the New Mexico
Drug Policy Project, an affiliate of the center.

Huffman said a Lindesmith donor had contributed money specifically to
send lawmakers to see "Traffic" in New Mexico and in other states.

The $20 passes - so lawmakers can take guests-were to be distributed
to all 112 legislators, she said.