MARIJUANA LAW A POSITIVE MOVE

Tuesday's move by the federal government to decriminalize possession of
small amounts of marijuana is a positive first step, but there is much work
yet to be done.

Under legislation introduced by Justice Minister Martin Cauchon, possession
of up to 15 grams of pot would be considered a minor offence that carries
no criminal record. The discretionary aspect of the law means, for all
practical purposes, those caught with up to 30 grams would be subject to
the same treatment.

Critics will argue that the move sends the message that it is OK to smoke
pot. But clearly that is not the case.

Decriminalization is far different from legalization. The fines -- ranging
from a maximum of $250 for youths to $400 for adults -- are a suitable
deterrent. The reality is that pot use remains illegal in this country.

The proposed law gives clear guidelines to police and the courts to deal
with those caught in possession of marijuana. It also frees up court time
to deal with matters far more serious than catching someone with a handful
of joints in his pocket.

The law will also remove the stigma of a criminal record for many people
who don't deserve one. Those who toke up behind closed doors really aren't
hurting anyone but themselves.

However, when they bring their pot-addled brains out from behind their
closed doors, it becomes an issue of greater significance.

And that is where the work remains to be done. The new law carries harsher
penalties for those caught driving while under the influence of marijuana
but, as of yet, there is no roadside breathalyzer technology for marijuana.

Before the law comes into effect, questions about enforcement need to be
answered. And, while the government has promised new money for educational
campaigns, it must also provide much-needed resources to help police go
after the real criminals -- the growers and dealers.

And finally, the courts must back up the intent of the legislation, that
is, to punish marijuana users who do harm to others. The courts must
consider marijuana an aggravating factor in the commission of crimes -- and
let the punishment reflect that.

Not hurting anyone? Fine. Puff away. But if someone gets hurt, face the
consequences.

That's essentially the intent of the law. If it actually works that way,
there should be little room for criticism.

Doug Hintz is the city editor for the Medicine Hat News.