The case for pot tax

Columnist Kerry Dougherty calls House Resolution No. 140, which seeks to study the potential revenue impact from the regulated sale and use of marijuana for adults, "crazy" ("Lawmaker not likely to rally buds to back pot resolution," Jan. 25). It is not, and here's why.

Surveys show that young people today have easier access to illegal marijuana than they have to alcohol or cigarettes. Why? Because the production and sale of alcohol and cigarettes are regulated and legally limited to adults.

It's legalization, regulation and public education - coupled with the enforcement of age restrictions - that most effectively keep mind-altering substances out of the hands of children. Despite more than 70 years of federal prohibition, marijuana is here to stay. It's time to acknowledge this reality, cease ceding control of the marijuana market to untaxed criminal enterprises, and put it in the hands of licensed businesses.

"Crazy" is continuing to do the same things over and over again and expecting different results. It's time for Virginia lawmakers to have a serious discussion regarding market alternatives to marijuana prohibition.

Paul Armentano

Deputy Director

National Organization for

the Reform of Marijuana Laws

Washington, D.C.