It seems I'm one of the majority of British Columbians who would prefer
marijuana use decriminalized, "Cannabis: Should B.C. follow the U.S.
approach?" May 12, but we must be careful what we wish for.

For a start, we can forget the idea that existing methods of
cultivation and distribution would continue. Big tobacco would be into
the business faster than you can say "Mary Jane". Sure, the odd
home-grow operation might continue, but most of the people making
money from dope now could kiss their ash goodbye.

The government would want in on the act, too, There would be duty
and tax, and picture i.d. - because there would have to be an age
limit. Then there would be the "don't toke and drive" counterattack
campaigns, with random breath and blood testing.

In any case, the campaign to legalize cannabis has little to do with
the drug itself. It's mostly just adolescence manifesting itself the
way it always does - through rebellion, protest and defiance. If
marijuana was legalized it would fall from favour faster than a
Grizzlies head coach.

Robert Smith,
Vancouver