WELL-INTENTIONED BUT MISGUIDED

The Oregonian was only partially correct in describing why the
Libertarian Party voted to recommend a "no" vote on Measure 33 ("No on
looser marijuana law," Oct. 4). Partly, yes, because we believe that
the debate should be over straight legalization, but that's certainly
not the main reason.

What Measure 33 does is get the state into regulating the usage,
possession and distribution of medical cannabis to an extent that it
doesn't today. The state would be auditing books, receiving regular
reports from dispensaries and generally compiling specific information
on cannabis-growing and medical marijuana usage in the state,
including names, in a format tailor-made for Attorney General John
Ashcroft.

It's true that we're philosophically opposed to having laws against
cannabis possession, use or distribution; you either own your own body
or you don't.

But our objection here is more pragmatic; there is no way to guarantee
that the state won't turn over this info to the feds, who have shown
no compunction about arresting, harassing and even killing medical
marijuana patients.

I was for this initiative before I took a close look at it; now I
think that this one is well-intentioned but misguided.

DAN FITZGERALD

Chairman

Multnomah County Libertarian Party

Northeast Portland