(USA) No marijuana taxation without legalization California
| Assemblyman Tom Ammiano (D-San Francisco) has proposed a measure that would legalize and regulate marijuana sales in California. | |
 | In light of state's economic woes, the proposal is attracting considerable interest -- particularly in the wake of a report released Wednesday that indicates a marijuana tax could increase state revenue by as much as $1.4 billion. The Drug Policy Alliance was one of the first groups to publicly support the report, saying that it “amplifies the escalating national discussion of marijuana policy.” |
| Law enforcement groups were less ecstatic about the measure, however, fearing that decriminalization would lead to widespread marijuana use. L.A. Times readers have generally come out in support for marijuana decriminalization and regulation: "Seems like we are beginning to get a more practical picture about marijuana and its potential benefits for the state and it's residents. It's about time," said steveC. "This is inevitably going to happen, why delay it when everyone benefits. Increased tax revenue, prison population relief, as well as a reduction in revenue for organized crime groups are all positive benefits that taxed, legal marijuana can bring," wrote Louie. Student CSUFwas quick to point out the other ways marijuana legalization could help the economy, including an "increase in sales for Visine / Clear Eyes and late night snacks." A few readers did disagree with Ammiano's measure, however: "You can't balance the budget on the backs of drug addicts. It's unethical and immoral, not to say the poor message something like this sends to children and teens. Additionally, if anyone actually believes something like this will cut down on teen drug use, they must be dumber than they look or just don't know drug addiction very well. California cannot become the leader in drug use," said MICHAEL WHITE. What do you think? Is it time for California legalize and tax marijuana? --Brendan Bigelow Source: http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/comments_blog/2009/07/marijuana-pot-weed-tax-dispensary-.html |
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