Don't buy the hype on pot (cannabis) legalization

[asdjrocky]

This was a good article, well thought out and it goes a long way toward pointing out the hype on both sides. I support prop 19, but in no way do I see it as a panacea for the problems of California, it's just a step in the right direction.

Boston, Massachusetts (CNN) -- On November 2, California will vote on Proposition 19, a measure to legalize marijuana. Advocates believe Prop 19 will generate a major budgetary windfall and unleash an economic boom in marijuana-related industries while reducing crime, corruption and Mexican drug violence.

Prop 19 opponents fear it will increase marijuana and other drug use via the gateway effect and spur the alleged negatives of use, such as crime or diminished health.

Most claims on both sides are exaggerated or misleading. Legalizing marijuana is the right policy for California and the nation. But in considering Prop 19, everyone should start with a balanced assessment of its likely impact.

California has long been at the forefront of the push-back against marijuana prohibition. The state decriminalized marijuana in 1975, meaning it eliminated criminal penalties for possession of small amounts. California then legalized medical marijuana in 1996. Plus, in 2009, U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder said the federal government would not interfere with medical marijuana in states where it is legal under state law.

the rest-
http://www.cnn.com/2010/OPINION/10/19/miron.prop.19/index.html?hpt=T2

[lob1]

1. Grass isn't a gateway drug. I thought that had been

disproved a long time ago.

[walldude]

2. It has... but can't let that get in the way of a good

20 Billion dollar a year drug war...

[asdjrocky]

5. I think he points that out as being misleading. nt

[slackmaster]

3. The predictions of vast tax revenues and reduced crime are pie in the sky

I'll be voting Yes on libertarian grounds. The law is poorly written - It allows cities and counties to impose regulations, licensing for dealers, etc. but does not compel them to do anything. So some will regulate and try to make money, some will do nothing, and there will be no way to enforce any ordinances.

The resulting chaos will stifle any attempt by government to control commerce and will make enforcement of federal law even more difficult than it already is, which to me are very good things.

[Ian David]

4. Masturbation is a gateway drug. Nearly every drug addict has masturbated. n/t

[asdjrocky]

6. Where's Swamp Rat when you need him?

We need a shot of Christine O'Donnell smoking a joint.