Many folks in Alaska are worried about marijuana, and for good reason. Alaska is set to be the next state, after Washington and Colorado, to legalize cannabis for recreational use.
This year Alaskans are slated to address the issue of possibly legalizing marijuana. What I haven't seen from the other states that have voted on this issue is any type of educational requirements prior to getting the "right" to use this drug. Why do you think that is? Is it because we already get the privilege to use alcohol in this country just because we reach the age of 21? Is it because we are used to being reactive rather than proactive? As reported in www.adn.com.
The cynic in me believes it is a revenue generator for the legal system and its representatives?
We have to pass a written test and a vision test as well as a driving test in order to get our driver's licenses. Most people attend some kind of schooling and have someone teach them how to operate a motor vehicle prior to actually taking the tests. We are taught the rights, responsibilities and penalties associated with getting a license. Why not do the same for psychoactive substances?
My suggestion would be to require drug educational classes (even online ones) and passing a test as any part of legalization of marijuana. In addition, I would have the applicant sign a type of waiver stating that he or she is aware of the dangers associated with using marijuana and will take full responsibility if any of these dangers are realized and not put the burden on society.
As the educational director for both in-class and online marijuana classes I find it difficult to believe that many people do not realize the many negative side effects associated with marijuana use, especially chronic use. I would hope that even proponents of legalization would agree that an individual should be aware of all potential aspects of use prior to engaging in any use.
What do you think about this topic? I look forward to hearing from you.