In favor of local legalization of cannabis
After reading the article on the debate on cannabis legalization in Avalon in last week’s paper, I would like to propose a solution to the issue regarding the island being surrounded by federal waters.
Like brewing local beers or making local wine, legal cannabis could be restricted to only be grown and sold here on the island. Island grown cannabis could be considered unique, and tourists from the mainland could be drawn to the local strains and products only available in Avalon’s dispensaries.
Having both cannabis manufacturers and dispensaries here on the island would definitely boost the local economy by providing more jobs, and by heavily taxing recreational cannabis sales. Not to mention having legal dispensaries here in Avalon would essentially remove the black market cannabis sales currently happening without tax and without product testing.
Another point to consider is that locals must currently travel to the mainland in order to purchase cannabis, then return home illegally across federal waters with it. Locals shouldn’t have to break the law in order to enjoy cannabis in their state where it’s completely legal.
Lastly, I encourage anyone participating in the debate to evaluate the statistical data on the effects of legalization in other cities before casting a negative vote; for example, its positive effects on reducing opioid dependency, alcoholism, and crime.
Thank you for providing such an entertaining and informative newspaper. Keep up the great work!
Michael Hall
Editor’s note: Avalon currently has just one delivery-only, medical cannabis business that has not yet opened its doors. The City Council has discussed, but taken no action, on allowing adult recreational use in town.
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