Pubdate: Thu, 13 Nov 2014
Source: Boston Herald (MA)
Copyright: 2014 The Boston Herald, Inc
Contact:  http://news.bostonherald.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/53
Note: Prints only very short LTEs.
Author: Robert Sharpe
Referenced: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v14/n865/a06.html

DON'T CRITICIZE, LEGALIZE

That Massachusetts has proven inept at opening medical marijuana 
dispensaries speaks to the need for full legalization ("Pot pushers 
say legalize," Nov. 7). The state continues to treat marijuana like 
Kryptonite. The plant is not nearly as dangerous (or exciting) as 
drug warriors would have us believe.

There is a difference between condoning marijuana and protecting 
children from drugs. As passed by Massachusetts voters in 2008, pot 
decriminalization acknowledges the social reality of marijuana and 
spares users criminal records. What's really needed is a legally 
regulated market with age controls.

Separating the hard and soft drug markets is critical. As long as 
illegal drug cartels control marijuana distribution, consumers will 
come into contact with hard drugs like heroin, cocaine and meth. 
Marijuana prohibition provides a "gateway" to these drugs.

- - Robert Sharpe, policy analyst, Common Sense for Drug Policy,

Washington, D.C. 
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom