A different approach

[amsterdamage]

It's obvious by now any direct attack on the prohibition will be met with fierce resistance from the DEA. The reason for this is the obligation placed on the DEA to not only enforce the prohibition laws but also to protect them. This obligation to protect the laws from repeal is the sole reason the DEA blocks studies which might find that marijuana is safe or has medicinal or other uses. Additionally, the obligation to oppose any attempt to legalize marijuana forces the ONDCP and the DEA to spread misinformation about it.

Because studies can't be conducted and because there are so many falsities spread regarding it, Congress and the general public have no possible way to make a reasoned decision regarding the correct approach society should be taking towards marijuana. There is no way for any of us to know if the current laws are sufficient, excessive, or even required at all.

I believe this obligation on the DEA provides a disservice to this country, for its citizens will never know the true dangers concerning marijuana and what, if any, uses and benefits we're denying ourselves by maintaining the complete illegality of medicinal and recreational marijuana and of the growing of Hemp.


I believe a non-confrontational approach containing the potential to result in the repeal of the prohibition will be to call on Congress to remove from the DEA the obligation to protect the prohibition laws. In addition, the DEA as the enforcement body of the prohibition should not also have the obligation of determining which Schedule to place each substance. I believe this task should go to an agency primarily consisting of representatives from the Health Care industry who have the skills necessary to determine the true risk each substance poses to individuals and to society as a whole.