PUT DRUG DEALERS OUT OF BUSINESS BY LEGALIZING MARIJUANA

Marijuana is always compared to alcohol, which is reasonable since
alcohol was illegal for many years until the dismal failure of
Prohibition with its attendant crime, violence and inefficacy in
eliminating consumption finally resulted in its repeal. The fear that
legalization of marijuana would send a "wrong message" to our youth
is as reasonable as saying the government is encouraging underage
drinking because alcohol is a legal drug.

We have had many years to review the outcome of a policy of illegal
marijuana. Our already-overcrowded jails are too full to hold
dangerous offenders, but apparently there's ample room for pot
smokers. The drug dealers who are the biggest winners from the
illegal status of marijuana pay no taxes on their profits, and
certainly many are guilty of more serious crimes.

When a drug becomes legal, it does not mean it is freely available;
legal guidelines could then be in force regarding driving under the
influence, the growing and distribution of this substance and the
purity of the product -- hopefully, dangerous additives would be
eliminated and hygienic practices would be in place.

Claire Fine Rancho Mirage