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 - --- MAP posted-by: Matt