I-502 too narrow

I appreciate former Seattle police Chief Norm Stamper’s fine stands against the drug war, and for police accountability. Too bad his audience had no chance for questions. I would have challenged his endorsement of Initiative 502, which would too narrowly legalize marijuana in Washington.

Stamper rightly condemned the oppression that has victimized millions of citizens for the victimless crime of marijuana use. He emphasized the medicinal value of the herb for many who suffer from illness. However, he neglected to address I-502’s unfairness to Washington’s medical marijuana community.

The Seattle Weekly recently critiqued the initiative’s blood limit of 5 nanograms of THC for adult drivers. This inaccurate and unnecessary rule would basically prevent any licensed user of medical marijuana from driving.

Most of these patients, although normally competent to drive, would never get their THC levels that low. The article quotes doctors and law enforcement personnel who say the focus should be on impaired driving, rather than a blood test.

The initiative would also prohibit personal cultivation of the plant in any amount. Yes, there is welcome revenue to be gained from taxing commercial sales, but a state that allows home brew should also tolerate homegrown.

Morton Alexander

Spokane