Pubdate: Mon, 17 May 2010
Source: Aspen Times, The  (CO)
Copyright: 2010 Aspen Times
Contact: http://drugsense.org/url/zKpMPhQ7
Website: http://www.aspentimes.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/3784
Author: Stan White
Referenced: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v10/n361/a05.html?1070

END PROHIBITION ON POT

Kevin Stephenson is correct, "we have a serious substance abuse 
problem to solve;" however, telling lies, half-truths and propaganda 
is part of the problem. Reducing substance abuse problems requires 
telling the truth, especially to youth. Nearly every study, including 
government studies, historically discredit the "gateway" theory.

Although cannabis (marijuana) isn't "harmless," it is a relatively 
safe, God-given plant (see the first page of the Bible) that's less 
addictive than coffee, and safer than alcohol, which hasn't killed a 
person in more than 5,000 years of documented use, while cigarettes 
kill more than 1,000 Americans daily.

Truth is, unregulated sales of cannabis force buyers into contact 
with people who often sell hard drugs, which increases addiction 
rates. Perhaps that's the gateway effect Stephenson is speaking of.

A sane or moral reason to continue cannabis prohibition doesn't exist.

Stan White

Dillon
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MAP posted-by: Keith Brilhart