Dear Cathie,

Thank you for contacting me with your support for federal legislation designed to stop the arrest and prosecution of marijuana smokers. I appreciate hearing from you on this issue, but must disagree with you on its merits.

As you know, marijuana is the most commonly used illicit drug. According to the 2001 National Household Survey on Drug Abuse, marijuana was used by 76 percent
of current illicit drug users. What is even more surprising is that an estimated 37% of Americans aged 12 or older had used marijuana or hashish in their lifetime.

These numbers are very disturbing, as ins the general lack of understanding about the harsh effects of this drug. Marijuana abuse is associated with frequent
respiratory infections, impaired memory and learning, increased heart rate, anxiety, and panic attacks. What is worse is that the effects of marijuana smoking are
more devastating on younger users.

I have and will continue to do everything in my power to stop all forms of drug use - including marijuana. We must all begin to take responsibility for this epidemic and fight to save our children.

Again, thank you for contacting me with your thoughts on this matter.
Sincerely,

Mark Foley
Member of Congress

Did you even read my entire letter Mr. Foley? It appears to me that you didn't or you would know Mr. Foley, this man was not selling illegal drugs. That is what is
wrong about the entire situation. I have children and feel the same way you do about the drug epidemic in our country. Tommy Chong is not an epidemic. I am all for jailing drug dealers. Please tell me what drugs this man sold? Sorry to bother you Mr. Foley, but it bothers me that our tax dollars go to jail a man that did NOT sell drugs I believe it is at a cost of $24K a year. Yet I can drive in Riviera Beach and if I linger at a stop sign someone will try to sell me crack. I wish you congressmen could explain that to me instead of writing a standard letter that has nothing to do with the situation in hand. I will remember this when I vote which I do every election. I will also be sure to explain this to my fellow voters. I know many that would love to hear this reply.