REPORT A GREAT STEP FORWARD

The Senate committee's recommendation to legalize responsible cannabis use
is well-researched and pragmatic. The Sept. 10 editorial, Legal Pot A Dopey
Idea, tries to refute the report by arguing that "marijuana is not a
benefit to society." I've got news for you: neither are cigarettes,
alcohol, twinkies or pornography, but should you be thrown in jail for
partaking of any of the aforementioned vices? No, and neither should
Canadians face jail for responsible pot smoking.

The criminalization of cannabis has filled jails with otherwise law-abiding
citizens, inspired disdain for the law among youth and made organized
criminals extremely rich. Increased enforcement has only exacerbated the
situation. The Senate committee's recommendation will be a great step
forward toward solving these and other problems caused by the prohibition
of cannabis.

Adam Wiggins, Pasadena, Calif.