It's another of an endless list of subjects that, if the government didn't view you as their property that needs to be managed, they would keep their nose out of it. The so-called general welfare clause has been used to expand willy-nilly the Feds defined but limited responsibilities. It's a way to manipulate people, keep 'em fearful, butt into their life, etc.

As with any of the continually controversial topics of our day, the government SHOULD NOT be interferring in matters of the conscience. Unless, someone else is unnecessarily harmed.

I am greatly perturbed by one of the anti-Kerry ads(keeping in mind I am anti- Kerry, & Bush), that points out he didn't vote for the Lacey Peterson law 'protecting pregnant woman from violence'. Way to go Kerry. Whomever proposed it or signs on promoting such an assine law should not be in office. We need some politicians who are interested in weeding out dumb ass laws like these, which is what is on the books mostly.

I had a pharmaceutical representitve tell me a couple of years ago that if pot alone was legalised, within 10 years, all of this countries debts could be payed off. Only problem is, as with the lotteries, is that they'd find other ways to waste our hard work while enjoying High Life themselves(at our expense of course).

The best reason to legalise drugs is for our children. Not that it has done any good, but I have had opportunity to recount this event to many human welfare types. Over a decade ago a friends son who was graduating from High School, came to me asking I buy him and a couple of his pals a couple of 6 packs of beer. Although I sympathized, I had to turn him down for a variety of reasons. What he said in reply changed my entire outlook on legalization. "This sucks, if I wanted drugs, I could get all I want AT SCHOOL". That's why drugs should be legalised, to make them harder to get in our schools, by eliminating much of the Black Market.

Frankly, I have only met one violent pot head in the last 35 years, can't say that with a straight face about drinkers. Legalize it, tax it and free the Dope Heads from prison instead of the pedophiles and violent felons.

Where are the 'it's their body' protesters for this one? Or anything applicable?

The answer is probably simpler than social/production/societal costs: the little head still says, 'liquor is quicker...'.

As the ol' saw goes: 'you can't legislate morality'.

Sorry, the libertarian is showing.

GMm