Marijuana.com

Lothar121

Pot Perspectives
Adam Smith | Globe and Mail | 08/08/06

Calgary -- Cracking down further on marijuana use, as Antonio Maria Costa suggests (Reefer Is Worth Getting Mad About -- Aug. 5) is not the answer. Marijuana is already illegal, but that doesn't stop people from using it, because most -- even those who don't use it -- don't think there is anything wrong with it. Our laws are out of step with the views of most of society.

Legalizing marijuana would have a number of benefits. For one, it would be easier to control its sale in the same way as alcohol and tobacco. The government would also be able to regulate its production, resulting in a safer supply of the drug. Perhaps most importantly, it would provide a new stream of revenue for the government in the form of sales and excise taxes. These funds could be used to help pay for any health problems caused by marijuana use, as well as anti-drug education programs and tougher enforcement of rules against harder drugs.

I'm sure that many readers will think I am a pothead, but nothing could be further from the truth. Although I cannot stand marijuana, I believe that Mr. Costa's dogmatic approach is unrealistic and that it's time for a more pragmatic solution.