MARIJUANA USERS ARE CITIZENS, TOO

No matter where you stand in the marijuana legalization debate, the
matter of equal rights is critical to the discussion. Why should
people who choose to use alcohol responsibly enjoy all the benefits of
society without shame or fear of arrest, prosecution and
incarceration, while adults who use cannabis responsibly are subjected
to those kind of harsh consequences plus loss of employment, custody
of children and benefits?

We responsible adult cannabis consumers do not deserve to be treated
like criminals. We are good, productive citizens who are entitled to
the same rights as everyone else. Hold us to the same societal
standards and obligations. Educate the public about personal
responsibility, safety practices and avoiding problems with every
substance they consume.

Legal regulations will bring much-needed tax revenue to the state from
our No. 1 cash crop and give the public quality and distribution
controls that other commercial products require - but are nonexistent
under prohibition. Further, they will be more just and fair for everyone.

Mikki Norris

El Cerrito