As the millennium draws nearer, we can't help but think about the
upcoming election and the many propositions that come before the
voters every year.

Since 1996, Proposition 215, the proposition that permits marijuana
use for medicinal purposes, has continued to benefit AIDS and cancer
patients with no negative side effects reported. Unlike drugs and
substances that are already legal, marijuana has never been the cause
of death.

The benefits of marijuana should be acknowledged. For example, it
could save millions of dollars that are used each year to keep
marijuana offenders incarcerated. It could be sold at prices similar
to tobacco and taxed by the government.

If a responsible person wants to purchase a firearm all they have to
do is go to a store and do so. A responsible marijuana user deserves
the same rights. I hope to see a new proposition in the 2000 election
that gives the American people back their right to freely enjoy a safe
ancient herb.

Bryan Benavidez,
Fresno