Open Letter to Wisconsin Legislators by NORML Elizabeth

I am writing this letter as a concerned voting constituent. In light of the new legislation in Massachusetts, Colorado, and Washington I am asking for new legislation to be introduced here in Wisconsin. I am aware of Jacki Rickert Medical Marijuana Act, brought forth in committee in 2009 by Rep. Mark Pocan and Sen. Jon Erpenbach. I am asking for a different approach to be taken, the full decriminalization of possession and use.  

According to L.E.A.P., Law Enforcement Against Prohibition, the war on drugs over the past 40 years had actually increased, rather than decreased, distribution and availability of currently illegal substances. In a controlled and regulated market many positive things would come about. First off access would be controlled, in a similar way tobacco and alcohol currently are. Second we would create much needed revenue, through taxation, to allow for a stronger economy. Third we would cut down on criminal activity and dramatically reduce the incarceration population of non-violent persons.

I know what I am asking you to speak out against is a controversial matter. I ask that my voice be heard, alongside my fellow American’s and citizen’s of Wisconsin who cannot speak out for many reasons, including fear of persecution. I will be watching this issue very closely over the next year and hope to see this legislation introduced in this time.

Thank you

Elizabeth Perry-Rydz aka “NORML Elizabeth with Northern Wisconsin NORML“