I am writing in response to Tom Givón’s letter (Herald, Jan. 16). I am not a fan of Gov. Hickenlooper, but I certainly understand his trepidation concerning marijuana.
First, the amendment as written should never have been on the ballot because it is in direct violation of federal law, which always supersedes state law. In addition, early data from Washington state shows a marked increase in DUIs and underage use.
Harmless? All, not some, studies in the area show marijuana is a gateway drug, (Dr. Benjamin Carson, or ask any drug counselor).
When adolescents become users, one in six becomes an addict, and tests show all regular teen users have reduced cognitive skills, their IQ levels decrease and as with adult use, motivation also decreases.
Concerning alcohol: Addiction and drunkenness are terrible – ask anyone directly or indirectly involved – though by far most use is done responsibly (e.g., a glass of wine with dinner, a beer watching a game, etc.). Whereas the general purpose of marijuana is to get stoned and leave reality. Also, as my mother taught me long ago, one does not justify bad behavior by citing other bad behavior.
Although the Herald does not, I do take great exception to the Democrat-controlled Legislature allowing Colorado SNAP cards (food stamps) to be used in pot shop ATMs (along with use in strip joints). This is a far cry from the original idea of food stamps: for food, period. I wonder what those people’s kids are having for dinner?
My tax dollars can be used in more productive ways.
In addition, with the lack of motivation and ambition caused by marijuana use, are those people going to be out looking for a job, so they can escape poverty or be laying on the couch eating Cheetos and watching TV?
To quote Benjamin Franklin, “If you make poverty comfortable, you will have more of it.”
Robert Goodrich
Bayfield
