Pubdate: Wed, 19 Mar 2014
Source: Chicago Tribune (IL)
Copyright: 2014 Chicago Tribune Company
Contact: http://drugsense.org/url/IuiAC7IZ
Website: http://www.chicagotribune.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/82
Author: John Culloton

MARIJUANA REVENUE

I am opposed to the legalization of marijuana. I am from the old 
school of thought that categorizes marijuana users as "dope fiends."

That said, I am sure that our state politicians will look at the tax 
money generated by the state of Colorado and follow suit.

The problem with that is it would be a new source of revenue for the 
state to squander with little regard to resolving any of the state's 
fiscal problems.

I am sure our politicians would claim the tax money would be for the 
children or the elderly; that is sure way to influence voters. Past 
examples include the lottery, which would forever enhance our 
educational systems, and the toll roads, which would have reverted to 
freeways, and countless other innovative taxing mechanisms such as 
the temporary tax increase.

I may be a bit too cynical, but that comes from being around a long 
time and an observer of government spending habits.

- - John Culloton, Chicago
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom