Pubdate: Mon, 27 May 2002
Source: Columbus Dispatch (OH)
Copyright: 2002 The Columbus Dispatch
Contact:  http://www.dispatch.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/93
Author: Scott Kerschner
Referenced: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v02/n923/a10.html?1355
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/find?115 (Cannabis - California)
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/find?420 (Cannabis - Popular)

HUTCHINSON'S APPROACH SHOWS NO COMPASSION

I read Drug Enforcement Administration chief Asa Hutchinson's May 14 Forum 
column, "Drug treatment needs accountability." Hutchinson said Americans 
are compassionate people; unfortunately, this does not carry over to the DEA.

As head of the DEA and with the help of the U.S. Justice Department, 
Hutchinson oversaw federal raids on California's voter- approved 
medical-marijuana dispensaries. As a congressman, he opposed research into 
marijuana's medical value and lobbied for federal legislation overturning 
state medical-marijuana laws.

Without the dispensaries, thousands of cancer and AIDS patients are 
otherwise forced to obtain their medication on the black market.

The American people in growing numbers no longer support wasting resources 
and tax dollars chasing marijuana users, whether for medical or 
recreational use.

SCOTT KERSCHNER Grove City
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom