Pubdate: Sun, 29 Jun 2014
Source: Palm Beach Post, The (FL)
Copyright: 2014 The Palm Beach Post
Contact:  http://www.palmbeachpost.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/333
Author: Roger King
Page: A16

WILL LEGALIZED POT BE TOO MUCH TROUBLE?

There have been a few articles in The Palm Beach Post recently
regarding legalization of marijuana. New York Times columnist Maureen
Dowd's original (personal experiment) was first-rate. The state of
Washington is heading to kick-off day and beginning to realize the
number of guidelines required. Colorado and others are in full swing
without necessary protections in place.

It appears that some states were looking to reap a windfall in tax
revenue. Reality suggests that, with all the rules required at state
and federal level, we may be in for huge new government departments to
draw up laws and monitor same. The tax windfall dreams could quickly
turn into further deficits to cover all the costs involved. On a
positive note, this might reduce unemployment in the United States.

With pot available in cookies, how are kids to be kept from consuming
same? (No, honey, these are cookies for mom and dad!)

We can expect a huge increase in business for trial attorneys in
lawsuits against manufacturers, distributors and others concerning
long-term effects users were not aware of (tobacco ring a bell?). We
will probably have billboards on Interstate 95 telling us how much XYZ
law firm got for various clients; more banners in the jetways at Miami
International and other major airports will have similar messages just
in case a visitor has a "problem" after using marijuana in Florida.
The number of vehicle accidents could skyrocket with impaired drivers
being incapable of driving safely.

Many employers require prospective employees to pass a drug test prior
to hiring and, in some cases, random checks as well. This they are
forced to do to maintain a safe workplace. Will this now be voided due
to employees using a "legal drug"? How is the safe workplace to be
protected for all employees, including those who use the drug?

Unfortunately, the concept of having marijuana "available" is popular.
We need to hear more from our elected leaders on the benefits and
negatives. Trouble is, few, if any, are keen to take a stand against
such an issue.

ROGER KING, PALM BEACH GARDENS
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MAP posted-by: Matt