Pubdate: Tue, 23 May 2000
Source: Honolulu Advertiser (HI)
Copyright: 2000 The Honolulu Advertiser, a division of Gannett Co. Inc.
Contact:  P.O. Box 3110 Honolulu, HI 96802
Fax: (808) 525-8037
Website: http://www.honoluluadvertiser.com/
Author: Wally Bachman

REP. MARUMOTO WRONG ON LEGISLATIVE SCORING

Rep. Barbara Marumoto's downgrading of the Legislature (Advertiser,
May 14) reveals her negative attitude - criticize, complain, but offer
nothing positive to correct the complex problems we face today.

After dismissing important incentives to spark our economy, she whines
on with illogical complaints about the major improvements to two
problem areas that have generated debate without action for decades:
fireworks and medical marijuana.

While I agree that an outright ban on all fireworks would create a
black market for them in Hawaii, the Legislature compromised for a
much more intelligent approach - increase their cost to decrease the
amount ignited. It also is a good way to increase state revenues for
education and other underfunded services.

Her argument that the approved marijuana legislation will lead to
disrespect for the law is 180 degrees from the truth. Actually, it is
this type of hypocrisy and insensitivity for people with serious
medical conditions that causes disrespect for the law.

Wally Bachman
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