Former surgeon general calls for marijuana legalization

[asdjrocky]

(CNN) -- Former U.S. Surgeon General Joycelyn Elders told CNN Sunday she supports legalizing marijuana.

The trend-setting state of California is voting next month on a ballot initiative to legalize pot, also known as Proposition 19. The measure would legalize recreational use in the state, though federal officials have said they would continue to enforce drug laws in California if the initiative is approved.

"What I think is horrible about all of this, is that we criminalize young people. And we use so many of our excellent resources ... for things that aren't really causing any problems," said Elders. "It's not a toxic substance."

Supporters of California's Prop. 19 say it would raise revenue and cut the cost of enforcement, while opponents point to drug's harmful side-effects.

Video and more at link-
http://www.cnn.com/2010/HEALTH/10/18/former.surgeon.general.marijuana/index.html?hpt=T1

[Subdivisions]

1. Yea? Where the fuck were you on the issue when you held the USSG seat? n/t

[marmar]

2. Did she even hold the seat long enough to take a position?

As I remember, being pro-masturbation got her the boot rather quickly.

[bemildred]

3. Ms Elders has a long history of supporting rational pot laws.

She was USSG for a bit over a year.

[Subdivisions]

6. Thanks for the info, bemildred. I admit I did not know that. I also admit

that, not knowing much at all about Ms. Elders, I should have refrained from commenting, much less with the tone I used.

Though she probably will never see this, I humbly apologize to Ms. Elders for my ignorance.

[bluestateguy]

4. She in fact did speak out in favor, and it cost her her job

After one too many gaffes.

[deaniac21]

5. After the quote below, she was quickly back in Arkansas.

"With regard to masturbation, I think that is something that is part of human sexuality and a part of something that perhaps should be taught."