Canada's Marijuana Bill Criticized June 2, 2003
News Summary
The marijuana-decriminalization bill introduced in the Canadian Parliament was criticized both by supporters and opponents of drug-policy liberalization, the Ottawa Sun reported May 28.Lawmakers heard concerns about drug-impaired drivers and law-enforcement and government policies during a public hearing on the measure.
David Griffin, executive officer with the Canadian Police Association, expressed concerns about impaired driving, grow operations, prevention campaigns and relations with the United States over drug trafficking.
MADD Canada said the legislation should include a provision that gives police the authority to apprehend drug-impaired drivers. "Drug use is rampant among youth," said Andrew Murie, MADD Canada's executive director. "This is the worst government policy decision I've ever seen."
Even decriminalization supporters were unhappy. "I'm grateful for the recognition that marijuana ought not to be treated as such a problem, that decriminalization denotes a change in that philosophy," said activist Rick Reimer. "But the way they're going about it is completely backwards. How can you increase demand by reducing penalties and then at the same time restrict the supply routes? It's so stupid."
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