The issue of legalizing recreational marijuana has surfaced again, and watching the debate play out publicly is disheartening. Abstinence has never — and will never — work. Despite the numerous efforts and programs that have evolved over the years, lawmakers are blind to the fact that those policies will always fail. Let’s take a more practical and pragmatic approach to the problem, given the history of this debate.

The prohibition of marijuana has led to a thriving black market of unregulated and dangerous products that have only benefited drug cartels or other nefarious organizations.

The argument should never be about revenue generated through regulation, it should be about saving lives. People can be taught and rehabilitated — but only if they are alive. It is time we face reality and enact common- sense laws to ensure we have a next generation to teach.

Kevin Murata

Waikiki

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