Pubdate: Sat, 29 Aug 2015
Source: Long Beach Press-Telegram (CA)
Copyright: 2015 Los Angeles Newspaper Group
Contact:  http://www.presstelegram.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/244
Author: Diana Lejins

MARIJUANA MUCH SAFER THAN ALCOHOL IN EVERY WAY

Re "Marijuana harm ignored in push for legalization" (Commentary, Aug. 14):

It has become obvious that Thomas Elias has drunk the government's 
Kool-Aid of lies. When he asserts that medicinal cannabis is used by 
folks with no discernible medical problems, what medical degree does 
he hold to make that assessment?

It's the same myth extolled by law enforcement also practicing 
medicine without licenses - a crime in all 50 states. Elias stirs 
fears of parents by playing the "children card." However, numerous 
studies show that teen use and traffic fatalities actually decrease 
when marijuana is legalized/decriminalized.

And according to Arizona Health Services, no evidence even suggests 
that marijuana has caused any deaths. It is common knowledge that 
alcohol is far more dangerous, yet Thomas suggests it is safer for teens.

Elias needs to get his facts straight and stop fear-mongering. While 
it may serve as late-night entertainment for those who are 
enlightened, it sadly undermines his credibility as a writer.

- - Diana Lejins, Long Beach
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom