Hey Rudy,

I would say people really do know marijuana is safer, there really isn't anything to sell. There isn't any evidence to say marijuana is addictive, at least not in the sense of physical dependence. Along with no recorded overdoses in its ancient history marijuana is definitely a safer alternative to alcohol. Anyone who claims medical marijuana programs are being abused and therefore need to be shut down clearly have an agenda to push. Pain clinics are far more abused then medical marijuana dispensaries and cause far greater damage, to the health of the individual and the community around them. How many representatives do you hear or see pushing to shut down pain clinics? I haven't seen one. Watch Oxycontin Express. Also watch Ken Burns Prohibition, a PBS documentary. The quality of marijuana isn't the only advantage to regulation. It also puts the distribution of marijuana into the hands of businesses, legally and morally obligated to follow regulations. A street dealer has no regulations to follow. They also have no legal obligation to financially contribute back to our society through taxes and fees. Of course inhaling any smoke is damaging to your lungs but correct me if I am wrong anyone, the evidence shows that marijuana doesn't have nearly an impact on your lungs, as let's say tobacco. I believe I have even seen some studies indicating an improvement in an individuals lung capacity. Vaporizers are also an alternative to traditional smoking. And as you mentioned there is the method of ingesting cannabis, which of course is much healthier for your body then smoking. However the doctor would have to determine the most effective method of administering cannabis. But as far as I know edibles are a very effective alternative.

Zach