Pubdate: Sun, 21 Oct 2012
Source: Island Gazette (NC)
Copyright: 2005 Island Gazette
Contact:   http://islandgazette.net
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/3887
Author: Norm Stamper

VOTE TO LEGALIZE MARIJUANA

Washington voters have an opportunity to end decades of harm caused by
marijuana prohibition.

Study after study has confirmed that marijuana is safer than alcohol,
healthier than tobacco. Yet we have arrested tens of thousands of
Washingtonians for nonviolent, small-quantity marijuana offenses.
Initiative 502 would legalize, tax, and regulate marijuana for adults
21 and over.

I-502 does not promote marijuana use. Its aim is a different, far more
promising approach to its control. The initiative preserves tough
penalties for furnishing to minors, and for driving under the influence.

Passage of I-502 would yield roughly half a billion dollars annually
in excise taxes, most of it for drug education, prevention, and
treatment. Currently, violent drug cartels and street traffickers
control illicit commerce in marijuana. They do not "card"
14-year-olds.

Regulated legalization would make our communities safer and healthier,
especially for our children and teens. I hope you'll join me in voting
YES on Initiative-502.

Norm Stamper
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