Pubdate: Sat, 08 Feb 2014
Source: Miami Herald (FL)
Copyright: 2014 Robert Sharpe
Contact:  http://www.miamiherald.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/262
Author: Robert Sharpe
Referenced: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v14/n132/a03.html

BAN ON POT THE GREATEST HARM

Carl Hiaasen's Feb. 2 column, Dr. Cheech called -- your prescription
is ready!, was a refreshing change of pace. It's certainly true that
anyone in California who wants a medical-marijuana recommendation can
get one. The medical recommendation allows consumers to purchase
locally grown marijuana of known quality and safety from dispensaries
that generate tax revenue.

Does Gov. Rick Scott prefer that Florida consumers purchase untaxed,
unregulated and potentially unsafe marijuana from criminals? Marijuana
prohibition keeps violent drug cartels in business. When cartels
control marijuana distribution, consumers are exposed to illegal
cocaine, meth and heroin. This gateway is a direct result of
marijuana's illegal status. Marijuana may be relatively harmless, but
marijuana prohibition is deadly.

Robert Sharpe, policy analyst, Common Sense for Drug Policy,
Washington, D.C
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MAP posted-by: Jo-D