Pubdate: Mon, 06 Jan 2014
Source: Palm Beach Post, The (FL)
Copyright: 2014 Bob Roth
Contact:  http://www.palmbeachpost.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/333
Author: Bob Roth

COLORADO ON RIGHT TRACK WITH POT SALES

What would happen if a similar program was in effect in Florida
("Colorado stores begin nonmedical pot sales," Thursday)? First, it
could be taxed. Second, the illegal sales would greatly diminish.
Those pushing the pot would have to find another way to make a living,
possibly their sales experience might help them in a legitimate job.
Those in the business of supplying the pushers could use their
business experience in an honest manner. Some ex-bootleggers shifted
into legitimate businesses after Prohibition; one even had a son who
became president.

Without the pushers, there would be nobody trying to get new users.
There would be less need for enforcement personnel: police,
prosecutors, judges, prisons. Those involved with enforcement would
have a job problem as well as those involved in legal defense. Fewer
prisoners means fewer campaign contributions from prison corporations.
It might also affect Mexican crime among the marijuana supply industry.

Overall, the main opposition would be from those mentioned above who
would feel the loss of income. The fringe benefit would be that those
in need of marijuana for medical reasons would have the easy
availability.

BOB ROTH Juno Beach 
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