Pubdate: Fri, 02 Nov 2012
Source: Denver Post (CO)
Copyright: 2012 The Denver Post Corp
Contact:  http://www.denverpost.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/122
Authors: Shannon Baumer, David MacLaurin

AMENDMENT 64: LEGALIZING MARIJUANA IN COLORADO

This Nov. 6, you have a responsibility to vote for the future of 
Colorado. Amendment 64 will legalize marijuana for the general 
public. As pediatricians, we are concerned that increased marijuana 
access will lead to increased use by children and teens.

Medical marijuana from a dispensary in Colorado is pictured in this 
February 2012 file photo. Amendment 64 would legalize marijuana for 
the general public if passed. (AAron Ontiveroz, The Denver Post)

Since medical marijuana was legalized in Colorado, we have seen 
growing numbers of children and teens gaining access to marijuana 
from medical marijuana users both in the emergency room and substance 
abuse centers. Marijuana is addicting. Early usage of marijuana prior 
to 18 years has been proven to increase the risk of other illicit 
drug usage later in life. In addition, research shows that marijuana 
usage before the age of 15 has deleterious effects on teens' ability 
to think, to reason, and to work.

Don't forget to flip your ballot over and vote to keep Colorado kids 
healthy. Vote "no" to Amendment 64.

Shannon Baumer, M.D., Denver

David MacLaurin, M.D., Aurora
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom