KEEP MARIJUANA ILLEGAL

I do not believe that legalizing the possession of small amounts of
marijuana will improve society. The government supports legalization
because the courts are "filled" with people charged with simple
possession. This evidently costs taxpayers too much money. So
following this logic, should the government also justify legalizing
shoplifting of "small amounts" of merchandise?

The effects of marijuana use have been downplayed in the media. A few
members of federal government have disclosed using this drug when they
were younger. The suggestion being made is that these members are now
"successful," contributing members of society. Of course, that's
debatable. While comparing former forms of marijuana with those
currently available, it's important to realize that the active
ingredient that gives marijuana its effect is more concentrated than
it was 20 to 30 years ago, thanks to the processes involved in
hydroponic growth operations.

Are we, as a society, managing to effectively control people who
choose to irresponsibly use alcohol and then drive? I do not believe
we have capably controlled drunk driving issues very well yet. So does
it make sense to introduce another "legally possessed" substance for
people to consume with the government's consent? I do not wish to
compete for busy road space with mellowed-out, sleepy drivers, whose
reactions will certainly be impaired.

As for the busy courts argument, I submit that we would have busier
courts due to "impairment from marijuana" charges. Someone would need
to create a machine (similar to a breathalyser) to determine the
impairment. Where are the cost savings?

Finally, it is interesting to note that when our society feels
terrorized by suspicious actions of people, our government suggests
leniency with a substance that allows us to retreat into ourselves. I
am uncomfortable with a government that would promote use of a drug to
make people "feel better."

Cindy Matthews