Pubdate: Sun, 26 Mar 2006
Source: Hartford Courant (CT)
Copyright: 2006 The Hartford Courant
Contact:  http://www.courant.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/183
Author: Michael Evan
Referenced: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v06/n184/a03.html

LEGALIZE WEED

Like Clifford Thornton states, Connecticut should legalize marijuana
to a certain extent ["3rd-Party Candidate's 1st Class Issue," Feb.
12]. I feel that this is the solution to many, many economic issues.
Imagine this: a law passes, similar to the law that recently passed in
Denver but is statewide. I feel this is how it should work. I believe
marijuana should be made equal to alcohol in every aspect - [One] must
be over 21 to obtain [it], [the drug] cannot be used [nor can a driver
be] under the influence and [it] may not be used in open public places.

This would give the state such a large economic boost, taxpayers would
not believe it. Imagine all the money spent on combating marijuana
users and dealers becoming zero, making it easier for law enforcement
to concentrate on the "killer" drugs. Imagine the money saved by not
needing to put the 22-year-old construction worker in jail for smoking
some marijuana. Imagine the revenue from a tax on the drug.

I believe that having marijuana stores, or "smoke bars," would benefit
the state beyond belief, and it would be controlled, to make everyone
safer. Without religious and non-factual opposition, this would be the
best thing for everyone, especially the parents and kids.

Michael Evan, Redding
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MAP posted-by: Richard Lake