Pubdate: Fri, 08 Feb 2002 Source: Albuquerque Journal (NM) Copyright: 2002 Albuquerque Journal Contact: http://www.abqjournal.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/10 Author: Donald L. Adams Note: Ellipsis indicating editing as published. Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/johnson.htm (Johnson, Gary) Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/mmj.htm (Cannabis - Medicinal) Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/decrim.htm (Decrim/Legalization) DANGER LURKS IN LAW THIS STATE is facing a serious attempt to legalize marijuana by a governor who is the national poster boy for the drug culture. The Legislature seems to be 7/8 heedless of not only the dangers of the drug itself but the message it will send our economic and business community and those contemplating a move to New Mexico. This charade is being perpetuated as a medical treatment for the sick. Once that piece of legislation is signed, it will be very difficult to distinguish the "sick" among us. ... Proponents liken its use to occasional social drinking. Marijuana causes damage at the rate of something in the neighborhood of 20 times as rapidly as alcohol. Do we need this type of psychological escapism for our youth? Don't be deceived. The medical label is a ruse and the pushers of this law know the difference between decriminalizing and legalizing. It is only a step from one to another. DONALD L. ADAMS, Rio Rancho - --- MAP posted-by: Jackl