Pubdate: Thu, 29 May 2003
Source: Medicine Hat News (CN AB)
Copyright: 2003 Alberta Newspaper Group, Inc.
Contact:  http://www.medicinehatnews.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1833
Author: Doug Hintz
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/decrim.htm (Decrim/Legalization)
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/mjcn.htm (Cannabis - Canada)

MARIJUANA LAW A POSITIVE MOVE

Tuesday's move by the federal government to decriminalize possession of 
small amounts of marijuana is a positive first step, but there is much work 
yet to be done.

Under legislation introduced by Justice Minister Martin Cauchon, possession 
of up to 15 grams of pot would be considered a minor offence that carries 
no criminal record. The discretionary aspect of the law means, for all 
practical purposes, those caught with up to 30 grams would be subject to 
the same treatment.

Critics will argue that the move sends the message that it is OK to smoke 
pot. But clearly that is not the case.

Decriminalization is far different from legalization. The fines -- ranging 
from a maximum of $250 for youths to $400 for adults -- are a suitable 
deterrent. The reality is that pot use remains illegal in this country.

The proposed law gives clear guidelines to police and the courts to deal 
with those caught in possession of marijuana. It also frees up court time 
to deal with matters far more serious than catching someone with a handful 
of joints in his pocket.

The law will also remove the stigma of a criminal record for many people 
who don't deserve one. Those who toke up behind closed doors really aren't 
hurting anyone but themselves.

However, when they bring their pot-addled brains out from behind their 
closed doors, it becomes an issue of greater significance.

And that is where the work remains to be done. The new law carries harsher 
penalties for those caught driving while under the influence of marijuana 
but, as of yet, there is no roadside breathalyzer technology for marijuana.

Before the law comes into effect, questions about enforcement need to be 
answered. And, while the government has promised new money for educational 
campaigns, it must also provide much-needed resources to help police go 
after the real criminals -- the growers and dealers.

And finally, the courts must back up the intent of the legislation, that 
is, to punish marijuana users who do harm to others. The courts must 
consider marijuana an aggravating factor in the commission of crimes -- and 
let the punishment reflect that.

Not hurting anyone? Fine. Puff away. But if someone gets hurt, face the 
consequences.

That's essentially the intent of the law. If it actually works that way, 
there should be little room for criticism.

Doug Hintz is the city editor for the Medicine Hat News.
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom