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Oppose It

Should we, or should we not, permit the establishment of pot shops in Guilford? In some respects, it doesn’t really matter, since if we don’t, some nearby towns will.

But beyond the purely practical, some will see their existence as an endorsement of drug use, and this will be seen by children and others who may then be encouraged to seek a supply. It is pointless saying only adults will be served; there is always a way, and easy access will inevitably increase usage.

It seems to me that it is a bit of a dichotomy for the state to encourage the smoking of marijuana while doing everything possible to prevent the smoking of tobacco, or am I missing something? Of course, the state wants the tax revenue regardless of the consequences.

I have heard it claimed that smoking marijuana is the equivalent of consuming alcoholic drinks. In my experience, most alcohol consumers enjoy the flavor of their favorite beverage; their purpose is not to get high.

And has anyone noticed the recent increase in wrong-way driving accidents on our highways since legalization? Is it just a coincidence? Maybe not, and anyway, the state is now having to spend more on preventive measures to combat this new problem.

Personally, despite being somewhat libertarian-minded, I do see this proposal as another example of societal decay and encourage our leaders to oppose it.

David Roberts

Guilford