Pubdate: Tue, 16 Oct 2012
Source: Issaquah Press (WA)
Copyright: 2012 Issaquah Press
Contact:  http://www.issaquahpress.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/5255

VOTE TO APPROVE MARIJUANA LEGALIZATION

Despite decades of enforcement and untold millions of dollars,
marijuana prohibition does not work.

Initiative 502 possesses the potential to clear the air and allow
Washington to legalize small amounts of marijuana for recreational use
among adults 21 and older. The ballot measure outlines a sensible plan
for the state to legalize, regulate and tax marijuana.

I-502 is not a perfect plan, but the potential benefits outweigh the
potential pitfalls.

I-502 earmarks the funds for health insurance, state and local
governments, and, most importantly, drug research, prevention and treatment.

Critics claim the initiative could make marijuana more accessible to
teenagers. In reality, marijuana, like alcohol, is widely available to
minors. The onus is on parents to teach teenagers to make responsible
choices.

Legalization could carry another benefit. The cash-strapped state
desperately needs the estimated $1.9 billion in tax revenue from
marijuana sales.

Passage could also squeeze Congress to consider overhauling antiquated
marijuana laws at the federal level. The current law claims marijuana
is as dangerous as heroin.

I-502 is backed by law enforcement and legal professionals. The
fragmented opposition to the initiative seems more concerned about
maintaining the status quo than engaging in a debate about real reform.

In August 2011, as Issaquah leaders worked to craft a sensible medical
marijuana ordinance, we called for the legalization of marijuana. The
time to update archaic marijuana laws is overdue.

The choice for Washington voters is clear. Vote yes on I-502.
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MAP posted-by: Matt