MARIJUANA SHOULD BE OK'D FOR MEDICINAL USE

Regarding J.D. "Whitey" Hardin's thoughtful Nov. 29 op-ed, if health
outcomes determined drug laws instead of cultural norms marijuana
would be legal. Unlike alcohol, marijuana has never been shown to
cause an overdose death, nor does it share the addictive properties of
tobacco.

Marijuana can be harmful if abused, but jail cells are inappropriate
as health interventions and ineffective as deterrents.

The first marijuana laws were enacted in response to Mexican migration
during the early 1900s, despite opposition from the American Medical
Association.

Dire warnings that marijuana inspires homicidal rages have been
counterproductive at best.

By raiding voter approved medical marijuana providers in California,
the very same U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration that claims illicit
drug use funds terrorism is forcing cancer and AIDS patients into the
hands of street dealers.

Apparently marijuana prohibition is more important than protecting the
country from terrorism.

There is no excuse for the lack of political will among Virginia's
elected officials with regards to compassionate-use marijuana for
seriously ill patients.

Robert Sharpe, MPA

Policy Analyst Common Sense for Drug Policy

Arlington