Pubdate: Tue, 11 Apr 2017
Source: Toronto Star (CN ON)
Copyright: 2017 The Toronto Star
Contact:  http://www.thestar.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/456
Author: Robert Kent
Page: A10

POT LEGALIZATION LACKS PROPER FRAMEWORK

As a child of the notorious '60s, I am not unaware of marijuana and
its effects. As a resident of the new century I have doubts about
marijuana consumption, most particularly as to road safety. Society
has built deterrents to alcohol abuse - road blocks (RIDE),
breathalyzers, roadside testing etc. We have developed formidable
deterrents including suspension, fine, jail and criminal records. Yet
drunk driving and death continues unabated.

Not so marijuana. As yet there are zero roadside testing machines
available to detect its presence, and limited co-ordination-based
testing in the police station is marginal at best. No one has ever
established the legal level of impairment. The consequences of the law
upon conviction have yet to be established. If the person has been
smoking marijuana, the odour is easily detected. If the person has
used a consumable form it is virtually undetectable. There is no way
of telling the strength of the product on distribution. I have yet to
hear if such product screening will occur. A person may gain the right
to consume marijuana but that person does not gain the right to
endanger my family due to the lack of personal responsibility. There
are many more issues to be considered in the legalization of this drug
than the ability to "toke up" at will. We need concerted scientific
input. In his rush to office the prime minister over-promised in
exchange for a few votes. I wonder how! many lives that promise will
cost?

Robert Kent, Mississauga
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MAP posted-by: Matt