I think there's an implied belief that there's a market driven agenda when legislators consider Cannabis. If profiteers in the war on people ingesting an herb would do the math, they may realize that not only will they
not lose a lot of their market, they may
add to and find a shared market in legal Cannabis users. Many people will still do the legal harmful things they do to their bodies, exclusive of or in addition to the newly legal beneficial things that Cannabis can do to their bodies, if realistic, just and compassionate laws are adopted. We are not a threat. We come in peace.
If the new administration would turn our government resources toward positive solutions for the use of hemp as an industrial commodity and Cannabis and it's extracts as medicine and social grease, the number of harmless individuals (aka prison statistics) that would be out in the workforce providing for their families and their futures would equal almost ten percent of the total number of unemployed (reported 12/08).
However, this should be countered by the excitement in the fields where family and corporate farms specializing in various strains or niche markets of medical or recreational Cannabis ramp up production, relieving the foreign nationals known to prowl our emerald hills from having to take the effort. Money previously spirited north or south of our borders would remain and enrich our local economies.
Brighter thinking resulting from satisfied Cannabinoid receptors, and the subsequent compassionate responses to individual needs as well as consideration for community benefits, will allow consumers to thrive in almost any environment. Local CSA agreements will help enlightened individuals to ensure that a steady supply of necessary herbs are available.
Cannabis is a perfect creation with the capacity in it's natural form to help many and harm none. Simple in its complexity; beautiful in all forms. Jah's sweet candy and powerful hammer. Blessed bread of the land.