Source:   SpokesmanReview 
Contact:    Sun, 17 Aug 1997
Page B9

Think about changing lawmakers

Rep. Mark Sterk has boldly proclaimed, "I would never legalize drugs." How
noble. How full of deep thought.

I suggest that Sterk and others like him should boldly start thinking. Let
us start thinking about those seriously ill people who could benefit
greatly from the availability to them of certain illegal drugs. Let us
think about our current drug laws and ask what they are really doing for us
and what they are not doing.

Let's think of the wisdom of filling our prisons with people convicted of
simple drug possession, and let's quit letting violent drug offenders out
on parole.

Let's pass Initiative 685 in November, and let's start electing
representatives who are capable of and willing to really think about these
difficult issues.

Richard E. McInerney
Spokane, WA