WAR ON DRUGS BREEDS VIOLENCE

Re "Governor stirs debate on new revenue source" (Page A1, May 9):
Although I agree with the overall content of this article, as well as
with Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger's stance on opening up discussion, I
could not help but notice the need to shift focus toward the cost of
the "war on drugs" and how it is ultimately a major failure. We ought
to shift focus to the briefly mentioned violence plaguing our
neighbor to the south, Mexico. The cartels are not only known to be
involved in major drug business with dealers in the United States but
also with violent street gangs on both sides of the border.
Legalization is not only a step toward resolving the old medicinal
debate, but a resolution to the financial, social and civil
distortion that has taken place since the substance was outlawed many
decades ago.

It is not only the responsibility of our chosen representatives, but
our own as citizens. As users and non-users, supporters and those
against the legalization of marijuana, we all need to contribute to
the ongoing research regarding this substance, drug, plant or
whatever it is you call it. Anyone concerned with the outcome of this
debate should be directly involved in becoming a well-informed citizen.

- - Rube Young, Sacramento