Pubdate: Fri, 30 Dec 2016
Source: Observer, The (CN ON)
Copyright: 2016, Sarnia Observer
Contact: http://www.theobserver.ca/letters
Website: http://www.theobserver.ca
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1676
Author: Herb Couch
Page: A4

CANNABIS USE IS NOT LIKE 'GETTING SHOT IN THE LEG'

Re: "Time to treat addiction as a mental health issue" by Chris Nelson
(Sarnia Observer, Dec. 27).

I would certainly agree with Chris Nelson that cannabis should be
legalized. Cannabis prohibition has been a complete failure. He is correct
when he says that drug prohibition is "among the deadliest and costliest
exercises society has tried." Regulating cannabis is a much better
approach to take.

We must, also, recognize that accurate, scientific, reality-based
information is necessary, in order for people to make informed decisions
about cannabis use.

It is very important to not spread misinformation about cannabis to the
public.

Unfortunately, there are three areas where Chris Nelson is terribly
misinformed about cannabis.

1. The plant should be called cannabis. Chris should not be using slang
terms like dope, weed, stuff, pot or marijuana. The Final Report of the
Task Force on Cannabis Legalization and Regulation states, "We believe it
is more appropriate to use the term cannabis when engaging in a serious
discussion of the goals and features of a new regulatory system for legal
access."

2. When it comes to safety, all drugs are not the same. Cannabis is a much
safer choice than alcohol, commercial tobacco, or fentanyl. In fact, no
one has ever died from a cannabis overdose. Compare that fact with the
many thousands and thousands of deaths from alcohol, tobacco, and fentanyl
use.

Chris makes the absurd statement that "Arguing that smoking dope is safer
than drinking booze is akin to stating that getting shot in the leg is
preferable to taking one in the head."

Cannabis use is not "getting shot in the leg." That is just a silly,
exaggerated reefer madness scare tactic.

3. There is a big difference between drug use and misuse. All drug use is
not an addiction or a mental health issue.

Of course, any substance use involves risk. But it is important to talk
about alcohol, cannabis, tobacco, fentanyl and other drugs in a
sophisticated manner and distinguish between use and abuse.

The vast majority of people who use cannabis, use it in a responsible
manner. For many people it is a valuable medicine.

Cannabis use is really a health issue and civil rights issue.

Let's legalize and regulate cannabis, right now, and encourage honest,
scientific, compassionate, health and evidence-based information and
education. That will help people make wise choices.

Herb Couch

Nelson, B.C.
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