Pubdate: Thu, 08 Nov 2012
Source: Daily Courier, The (CN BC)
Copyright: 2012 The Okanagan Valley Group of Newspapers
Contact: http://drugsense.org/url/5NyOACet
Website: http://www.kelownadailycourier.ca
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/531
Author: Bryan St. George

ARE WE READY FOR WHAT COMES AFTER LEGAL MARIJUANA?

Much is being said in the media about legalizing marijuana.

The focus seems always to be on reduction of revenue to gangs, thus 
reduction of gang violence.

But little if anything is being said about the probable result of 
making it easier to purchase without a large growth in usage.

Given that it is a "mind-altering" substance (if not so, why the big 
appetite for use of it?), this will result in a great increase of 
users driving cars, bikes and motorcycles with their minds in an 
altered condition.

What is that altered condition?

I understand, without ever having tried it, that it gives relaxation, 
maybe to the point of being lethargic. Is that the condition of 
drivers we want proliferating our highways and streets, or doing 
highly technical jobs, or for that manner any job? I thought we 
wanted people to be at the top of their game when performing these functions.

Given that it is difficult for enforcement of people being under the 
influence of this substance, will we not be looking for mayhem on the 
thoroughfares and in our workplaces? It will be a nightmare for law 
enforcement.

Surely, it is bad enough now when there is a law against it. Are we 
ready for what is next?

Bryan St. George, Kelowna
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom