NO REGULATION IN SECRET INDUSTRY

Thank you for your editorial denunciation of the federal policies which
support the arrest and prosecution of medical marijuana patients.

If our Supreme Court does not have the courage to do something about the
federal assault on states' medical marijuana laws, then it's up to the
U.S. Congress. Patients and doctors have been trying to get Washington to
listen. Their cries are falling on deaf ears clogged by ardent
drug-warrior propaganda. Patients in 11 states have succeeded in obtaining
the legal right to possess their preferred medicine.

At least three other states (NY, RI, CT) are actively moving forward with legislation to join
this list. But now patients in these states must again live in fear of the
DEA knock on the door. Or actually, given their traditional method of
enforcement, the DEA kick-in of their front door and the entry in
paramilitary SWAT gear is more likely.

The federal government told the Supreme Court that their prevailing interest in maintaining criminal prohibition of medical marijuana is their desire to regulate
interstate commerce. Yet, after the ruling, there is absolutely no
regulation taking place. Medical marijuana will remain a multi-million
dollar industry. The distributors and consumers will remain secret, and
for the most part, unknown to federal agents.

How is it possible to regulate an industry that is conducted almost
completely in secret and behind closed doors?

STEPHEN HEATH,

Public Relations Director

Drug Policy Forum of Florida

Clearwater, Fla.