Pubdate: Mon, 28 Jan 2013
Source: Honolulu Star-Advertiser (HI)
Copyright: 2013 Star Advertiser
Contact: 
http://www.staradvertiser.com/info/Star-Advertiser_Letter_to_the_Editor.html
Website: http://www.staradvertiser.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/5154
Author: Edwin S. Uyehara
Page: A8

LEGALIZED POT WOULD BE TAX BONANZA

Several letters have been submitted urging for the legalization of 
marijuana - that it is a Godgiven natural plant, a gift to mankind 
and medicinally beneficial.

I believe that there is a greater motivation for legalization: to 
alleviate the financial woes facing the state. If we follow the lead 
of Colorado and Washington in legalization, we would be able to raise 
millions, perhaps even billions, of dollars through increased tax 
revenue and tourism.

According to The Wall Street Journal, the Washington state law calls 
for the imposition of a 25 percent excise tax on licensed growers 
when they sell to processors, another 25 percent excise tax when 
processors sell to retailers, and another 25 percent excise tax when 
customers buy from a store.

Customers will also pay a sales tax, retailers will follow a liquor 
store model and pay a standard Washington state business tax.

It can be predicted that other states will follow the lead of 
Washington and Colorado when they realize how much tax revenue can be produced.

Let us not be laggards in this matter. The time for legalization of 
marijuana is now, but legislative courage is required.

Edwin S. Uyehara, Kailua
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom