Pubdate: Thu, 17 Apr 2014
Source: Washington Times (DC)
Copyright: 2014 The Washington Times, LLC.
Contact:  http://www.washingtontimes.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/492
Author: Jennifer Harper
Column: Inside the Beltway
Page: A2

ALASKA FUMES OVER COLORADO WEED

Colorado has been a test case for marijuana legalization in recent
months. Yes, it could prove to be an economic boom. But voters already
have remorse over the legislation: New polling reveals that majorities
are not eager to mar Colorado's "wholesome" image. Alaska, where the
legalization issue will appear on a public ballot this fall, faces
similar concerns.

The interest group "Big Marijuana-Big Mistake-Vote No on 2" is
registered with the Alaska Public Offices Commission, and demand that
"Ballot Measure 2," which would legalize weed, be defeated. The
group's treasurer Deborah Williams, a youth counselor, calls the
measure "extreme" and is annoyed by cute marijuana ads in Colorado
that mask serious health concerns.

"She also questions whether Alaskans would be OK knowing that potent
marijuana products like hash oil, wax, crumble and shatter would be
legal under the proposed initiative," writes Alaska News reporter
Suzanna Caldwell, citing the street names of the stuff.

Ms. Williams has competition from the Campaign to Regulate Marijuana
Like Alcohol in Alaska, funded by the Marijuana Policy Project, a
national interest group which has drawn 45,000 signatures to a
pro-weed petition. While Colorado and Washington state sort out
legalization complexities, Ms. Williams hopes Alaska will hold off on
big decisions.

"What do we want our state to look like? Right now, the costs far
outweigh the benefits," she asks.
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MAP posted-by: Matt