SEPARATE DIFFERENT DRUGS

I would like to comment on The Record's thoughtful Dec. 13 editorial,
Decriminalize Marijuana Now.

Marijuana decriminalization acknowledges the social reality of
marijuana and frees users from the stigma of life-shattering criminal
records. What's really needed is a regulated market with age controls.
Separating the hard and soft drug markets is critical. As long as
marijuana distribution remains in the hands of organized crime,
consumers will continue to come into contact with addictive drugs like
cocaine.

Robert Sharpe

Program Officer, Drug Policy Alliance

Arlington, Va.