Dear Washington and Colorado Tokers: the Whole World is Watching

[phantom power]

Now that marijuana has been officially legalized for adults both in Colorado and Washington State, I want everyone who plans partake to understand that the whole world is watching.

...

All I’m ask is that if you are an adult planning to smoke pot in Washington or Colorado f0r you to be conscientious, be safe and use common sense.

Be Conscientious – Even though most people don’t use marijuana your neighbors and fellow citizens voted to allow you to without fear of prosecution. The best way to thank them is to be conscientious of the fact that most of your fellow citizens don’t smoke. Some people don’t like the smell, have health problems that can be irritated by any type of smoke or don’t want their children to see marijuana being used. Just try to be respectful. Try to keep smoking private and away from people it might bother. Not only is it polite but smoking in public is technically illegal.

Be safe – Don’t get high then drive or operate heavy machinery. It is not safe and it can result in a DUI. Importantly, fears about a plague of “stoned drivers” is one of the most over-hyped arguments prohibitionists use to try to stop legalization efforts. If Colorado and Washington can prove that this concern is unfounded it would be incredibly helpful for advancing the broader legalization movement.

Use common sense – Marijuana is still technically illegal under federal law. Before taking part make sure you are not risking your job because of federal rules about drug testing are still in place. While the federal government doesn’t have the resources to go after regular users please don’t do something like bring an ounce into a secure federal courthouse. Remember also that in neighboring states marijuana possession is still considered a serious offense.

I’m convinced that legalizing marijuana is the best policy option for our society, but you have a chance to help prove it. The world is watching so show everyone that your fellow citizens made the right decision. Have fun but also be safe, smart and conscientious.

http://justsaynow.firedoglake.com/2012/12/17/dear-washington-and-colorado-tokers-the-whole-world-is-watching/

[Bluenorthwest]

1. I wonder if the author of this piece is aware that in both states, public use is prohibited

under their new laws? I wonder why the author thinks the people who voted for this law will not know the law they voted for?
The whole 'keep it private' lecture is a matter of law. No one expects to be smoking in public settings, it is not 'technically illegal' to do so, it is specifically illegal to do so.
So I feel compelled to instruct the author that while drinking might be 'legal' where he or she lives, that does not mean the author can swill back some Scotch while strolling the parks and shops. I sincerly hope the author will show constraint and not drink openly in public places, because while alcohol is legal, there are many laws about when and where one may consume it. Please, dear author, do not run around drinking from open containers in public. Please. It would make all drinkers look bad. The world is watching.