Letter: Legal changes based on logic

Monday, June 26, 2000 | 9:29 a.m.

The judicial commission, headed by Chief Justice Bob Rose, appears to have some excellent and logical ideas. It is good to see that they are thinking clearly on these issues and are taking the initiative to make some changes. I hope the Legislature can do the same.

An appellate court is long overdue in this state. To "recognize the rights of citizens to represent themselves in civil trial courts" certainly needs to be enforced so that all may have access to the court system when needed and be treated with respect.

To reduce penalties for possession of small amounts and use of marijuana seems fair and logical and a step in the right direction. Hemp, once widely used for the manufacturing of many products, became and remained illegal, while cigarettes and alcohol, two much more harmful man-made drugs, are legal. That makes no sense at all.

I wonder what the statistics are of violent crimes committed by those on alcohol vs. marijuana. This information might be valuable in deciding on the issue.

A legislature that meets annually might be another change to consider.

AL DICICCO

The Coalition For Family Court Reform

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