Pubdate: Thu, 08 Aug 2013
Source: Herald, The (Everett, WA)
Copyright: 2013 The Daily Herald Co.
Contact:  http://www.heraldnet.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/190
Author: Doug Staab
Page: A9

STATE WRONG TO FLOUT FEDERAL LAW

I was unable to attend the public hearing in Everett on regulating
marijuana and so feel compelled to voice my opinions herein:

1. How does our state government justify acting to oversee the pot
business when it is a violation of federal law? To expend the effort
and taxpayer funds before this fact is resolved is ludicrous and
irresponsible in the extreme.

2. The mayor of Kent points out that she has taken an oath to uphold
federal law. How is it that other officials subject to the same oath
can proceed as they have? They are subject to legal removal from
office, though I doubt it will happen. The state attorney general
should have declared the law invalid and unenforceable. To remain a
nation of laws, enforcement of all law is necessary or we start down a
slippery path.

3. Many proponents of marijuana legalization, inside and outside the
government, are clearly motivated by the monetary returns (and/or by
their addiction). I seriously believe we will only be trading current
problems with marijuana for different and potentially greater ones.

4. Decriminalization of marijuana is probably necessary, considering
all the facts. However, I don't believe the state is currently
approaching it responsibly. What do you suppose reactions would be
should the state pass a law legalizing the possession of fully
functional war weapons, without any consideration of federal law?

I expect various reactions of all types to the above. However, they
are simply my opinions, to which I am fully entitled!

Doug Staab

Everett
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MAP posted-by: Matt