Pubdate: Thu, 15 May 2003
Source: Chicago Tribune (IL)
Copyright: 2003 Chicago Tribune Company
Contact:  http://www.chicagotribune.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/82
Author: Bruce Mirken

DECRIMINALIZING POT

Washington -- Steve Chapman, in his eminently sensible May 8 column on 
marijuana laws, may have actually underestimated the number of Americans 
who have tried marijuana ("For sensible marijuana policy, try heading 
north," Commentary).

The 80 million figure he cites comes from a government-sponsored survey 
that most likely underestimates the true figure.

A November 2002 CNN/Time poll found that 47 percent of U.S. adults--an 
astounding 98 million people--have used marijuana. That same poll found 
that 72 percent don't believe that marijuana users should go to 
jail--precisely the sort of reform that Canada is now considering, despite 
heavy-handed pressure, threats and bullying from U.S. government officials.

On this issue, at least, the Canadian government is more in tune with U.S. 
public opinion than our own administration.

How sad.

Bruce Mirken, Director of Communications Marijuana Policy Project
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