Once again our nanny state has shoved aside the legalization of gambling and recreational marijuana. Our politicians want to protect us from ourselves. It’s ridiculous that I am not allowed to spend $2 on a lottery ticket. It’s ridiculous that I can easily get a medical marijuana license but can’t walk into a store and buy pot like I can buy booze.

I think city Prosecutor Steve Alm may have his head up in the clouds when he selectively cites statistics from states that have legalized recreational marijuana. If it’s so terrible, why do more and more states legalize it?

As far as Alm’s statement that “all the medical professionals were totally against it,” our own Gov. Josh Green, M.D., is 100% in favor of it.

Our politicians’ excuse that funding the recovery of Maui is the priority is simply a red herring.

Dan Fox

Kuliouou

EXPRESS YOURSELF

The Honolulu Star-Advertiser welcomes all opinions. Want your voice to be heard? Submit a letter to the editor.

>> Write us: We welcome letters up to 150 words, and guest columns of 500-600 words. We reserve the right to edit for clarity and length. Include your name, address and daytime phone number.

>> Mail: Letters to the Editor, Honolulu Star-Advertiser 7 Waterfront Plaza, 500 Ala Moana, Suite #7-500 Honolulu, HI 96813

>> Contact: 529-4831 (phone), letters@staradvertiser.com, staradvertiser.com/editorial/submit-letter