MISCONCEPTIONS CLOUD MARIJUANA PROPOSAL

Editor, the Tribune:

Because there are misconceptions and irrational fears of the proposed
marijuana initiative, I am compelled to set the record straight.

- - The misdemeanor marijuana possession level will remain exactly the same.

- - Smoking marijuana anywhere, including stadiums, will remain illegal.

- - Approximately half of the petition signers were not students.

- - The initiative is supported by senior citizens, educators, doctors,
lawyers and elected Columbia officials, not just so-called "potheads."

- - Driving while "stoned" or intoxicated will remain illegal. Our
hard-working police force will have more time available to get impaired
drivers off our streets.

- - Marijuana use will not increase - this has been proved by several
studies, including a government-funded study.

- - Marijuana will remain illegal.

- - Columbia will remain a tremendous place to live, and there will be
absolutely no reason to move away.

If Columbia citizens intelligently pass this initiative, life in this great
college town won't be much different. Columbians will simply demonstrate
that they are pro-education, pro-patients' rights, in favor of using law
enforcement time and resources more wisely, and willing to end a bad policy
that unfairly harms the poor and minorities.