CANNABIS IS PREFERABLE TO ALTERNATIVES

Sir, I'm writing about: "Random tests force increased use of hard
drugs" (Courier 12.10.07). As the parent of a 16-year-old, ideally my
son will never use any illegal drugs. However, if he does use an
illegal drug, I would hope it's cannabis and only cannabis.

Drug testing discourages this because cannabis is fat soluble. As a
result, marijuana stays in a person's system for up to several weeks.

On the other hand, drugs like meth, cocaine and heroin exit the body
within a few days because they are water-soluble.

Drug testing discourages cannabis use and encourages use of much more
dangerous drugs like meth, cocaine and heroin.

Would you want your children experimenting with meth or heroin
instead of cannabis? Meth and heroin can and do kill. Cannabis does
not. Meth, cocaine and heroin are highly addictive. Cannabis is not.

Kirk Muse,

Mesa, Arizona, USA