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 - --- MAP posted-by: Matt