Pubdate: Fri, 05 Sep 2014
Source: Tampa Bay Times (FL)
Copyright: 2014 Diana Gilbert
Contact: http://www.sptimes.com/letters/
Website: http://www.tampabay.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/419
Author: Diana Gilbert

HEED DANGERS OF MARIJUANA

Re: Medical pot not an easy victory, Sept. 4

Adding an amendment to the Constitution, especially one legalizing
medical marijuana, should not be done lightly.

According to the California Narcotics Officers Association, "Marijuana
is an unstable mixture of over 400 chemicals including toxic
psychoactive chemicals which are largely unstudied and appear in
uncontrolled strengths." No scientific studies demonstrate that
marijuana is safe.

Marijuana has a high potential for abuse, and there is currently
strong evidence that smoked marijuana is harmful. Mental illnesses
such as psychosis, depression, anxiety, schizophrenia and suicidal
thoughts have been associated with chronic marijuana use.

Marijuana acts on specific targets in the brain and causes difficulty
with thinking and problem-solving, impaired coordination and judgment,
and disrupted learning and memory. Its effects on developing brains
are concerning.

The Florida Medical Association and law enforcement organizations
strongly oppose Amendment 2. Amendment 2 is not good for public health
or public safety. Vote no.

Diana Gilbert, Niceville  
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MAP posted-by: Jo-D