MEG DIRECTOR FOCUSES ON FEAR, MISINFORMATION, NOT FACTS

"Pot bill concerns police," Wednesday appears to focus on fear and
misinformation rather than the benefits to the sick that would occur.
Chris Endress of MEG states that "the bill will open the door to
organized crime". That's quite odd to say as prohibited materials
(booze in the early 20th century and pot

today) created, and still create, strong organized crime
factions.

Where do they think pot comes from if not from cartels, gangs and the
like? Medical marijuana will be a first step to weaken the hold of
criminal elements and drug smugglers, not make them stronger."We just
need to wait for a safe alternative"? Wait for how long? There are no
alternatives being developed that you can expect to be affordable,
when the natural product is an effective medicine for glaucoma, cancer
and other maladies. When I listen to the side effects of
pharmaceutical drugs on TV, I wonder if they cause more harm than
good. Pot should be legalized for people who will benefit by its use.
That's why it is prescription only.

Stop causing others to suffer because you have an irrational
perspective. I do not need, nor smoke pot but have been dismayed by
the ignorance that exists about legalization. Let sick people legally
obtain what they need along with bringing in tax dollars that
otherwise will go uncollected. Otherwise, they'll keep buying it on
the street corner and the state will keep losing tax dollars.

Mr. Endress has a personal agenda. As Metropolitan Enforcement Group
director he needs to work to keep his job, and to keep it easy.

It is disappointing that Rep. Pat Verschoore appears to easily believe
misinformation and does not put his constituents first nor determine
how many disagree with his new position. A representative should not
be so easily swayed by a good sales job.

Bob Sireno,

Port Byron