GTA split on opting in or out, Jan. 23

All levels of government seem to be doing their best to make a mess of the cannabis file.

They are undermining the original intentions of the federal government, which I believe was to wipe out the underground economy — a highly successful, well-established, multi-billion-dollar industry — by bringing it above ground and legalizing it, as well as encouraging competition.

Municipalities that choose to opt out of allowing pot shops are supporting the black market. That’s really what opting out means, since it’s business as usual for the foreseeable future.

Incredibly, the 80-year-old propaganda message of the film Reefer Madness is still alive and well in a large section of society, even though cannabis is arguably less detrimental for society than both alcohol and tobacco, which are free to be sold almost anywhere.

Premier Doug Ford has made many stupid mistakes in his new job, this one being giving municipalities the option to opt out when there was no pressure to do so, and which also runs contrary to the federal government’s primary goal of widespread legality.

Unfortunately for the residents of these municipalities, they will need to wait another four years before they can vote out their councillors and replace them with a new group of more responsible and enlightened representatives.