MARIJUANA SAFER THAN ALCOHOL

I found the article on laws and attitudes regarding marijuana and
dispensaries so very discouraging. I understand that this area is a
bastion of conservatism and is therefore, by definition, disposed to
resist change. But haven't we passed the point at which new
information should trump conservative tendencies?

The lies and misinformation about marijuana that started with the film
"Reefer Madness" have been thoroughly and utterly disproved, yet they
continue to be used by certain government officials to create fear and
apprehension in their constituents on this issue.

Assemblymember Strickland worries about the effect of legalizing
marijuana on our children. Well, maybe they won't be lured into gangs
that fund their activities via the illegal drug trade. Maybe they
won't be killed by a drunk driver since marijuana users are far more
cautious both while driving as well as making the decision to drive.
And maybe some of those children whose parents switch from alcohol to
marijuana might find themselves pleasantly surprised by a kinder,
gentler, safer, saner, less confrontational, less violent and less
reckless mom or dad.

And, with all due respect to Capt. Nelson, marijuana has actually been
proven to be not addictive and likely leads to the use of other drugs
primarily because purchasers have no other option than to transact
with criminal dealers of other truly dangerous drugs.

Let's all take a deep breath, open our minds, and try to do what's
best, especially for the children.

Juliet Hotchkiss

Oak Park