The Ledger
Published: Sunday, March 30, 2014 at 12:32 a.m.
Last Modified: Sunday, March 30, 2014 at 12:32 a.m.
As the November election nears we can expect the debate over legalizing marijuana for medical purposes to become more intense.
I have never used marijuana, nor any other illegal drugs, and do not expect to.
Opponents of the amendment claim that many major medical organizations feel that marijuana has not been proved to be a safe or effective form of medicine. However, the evidence that in many cases marijuana is beneficial is overwhelming.
Others argue that legalizing marijuana for medical purposes will lead to more traffic accidents. It is no secret that marijuana usage, although illegal, is widespread.
Yet, I have seen no statistics that indicate marijuana causes traffic accidents. On the other hand, no day goes by without the media reporting some fatalities caused by drunken drivers. Does anyone advocate that we bring back Prohibition?
Another concern is that legalizing marijuana for medical purposes will give people with no legitimate need easy access to the drug. This is probably true, but it seems that people who want marijuana have no difficulty obtaining it despite the best efforts of law enforcement to block it. Much better that they get the their marijuana from government-controlled sources than by enriching criminal drug dealers.
Sadly, it seems that people who want marijuana for recreational purposes have no trouble getting it while all too many who could benefit from its use are unable to obtain it.
There are many valid reasons for opposing the legalization of medical marijuana but on balance the arguments in favor of approving the amendment are much stronger. Therefore, I will vote in favor.
FRED PICUS
Lake Wales
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