In a recent discussion with an attorney friend of mine regarding the legalization of marijuana, he stated, “it’s here anyway, might as well legalize it.” This is the same argument that the Democratic candidate for governor, Phil Murphy, is presenting.

I pointed out that marijuana is an entry-level drug. No one starts out shooting up heroin, cocaine or fentanyl.

Anybody standing by the argument that if something is here anyway we might as well legalize it and collect tax on its sale is very shortsighted. Are we going to legalize all of the other drugs that are here illegally to collect sales tax?

In 2016 there were 33,000 deaths attributed to opioid overdoses in the U.S. The argument that marijuana is less harmful than cigarette smoking may or may not be true, but can anyone tell me what the benefits are to use it for recreational purposes?

Great role models when mom and dad, and maybe grandma and grandpa, light up a joint to get high.

Larry Yaskulka

Manchester