LEGALIZE MARIJUANA

The United States is reeling from a recession that shows no signs of
letting up anytime soon. Nebraska should use its most plentiful
natural resource to get ahead: our vast tracts of farm land.

The citizens of Nebraska already have the knowledge and equipment to
begin. Our state government also already is set up for the regulation
and oversight. We can easily morph some of our wheat and corn
production to marijuana. As a cash crop, it could breathe a lot of
life in to our state. It also would bring in tourism and possibly
other industries as well.

American citizens are fleeing overregulated, high-taxed areas like
New York and California for more sensible states. Why not Nebraska?

It's just a matter of time until other states begin to legalize it
anyway. If we as a state lead the way, we would be in prime position
to capitalize and supply these other states.

Obviously I'm not arguing that pot be completely unregulated. We
shouldn't repeal laws against operating heavy machinery or driving
while on MJ. And the same goes for any other common-sense laws
regarding things like alcohol or prescription drugs. There is no
denying the fact that pot impairs the brain. That's why people use it.

The year 2011 is a watershed moment in American history. Nebraskans
should take advantage of this. Instead of following the pack, we have
a chance to race ahead.

Jeremy Meister, Waverly