Pubdate: Thu, 12 Jun 2008
Source: San Jose Mercury News (CA)
Copyright: 2008 San Jose Mercury News
Contact:  http://www.mercurynews.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/390
Author: Matt Polentz

UPSIDE TO MAKING MARIJUANA LEGAL

In response to Joe Freeman's comments (Letters, June 10) about other
ways to boost the California economy, one of his suggestions is a
great idea even though he suggested it in sarcasm. The legalization
and taxation of marijuana could generate large tax revenues. Place a
huge tax on it and regulate it like alcohol and tobacco, legally sold
only to people over the age of 18 or 21. Most users will not grow it
if they can legally buy it. Furthermore, release all non-violent
prisoners arrested for marijuana offenses excluding those who sold or
gave it to minors. Divert funds given to police agencies to combat
marijuana to other areas of need.

Matt Polentz

Campbell
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MAP posted-by: Richard Lake