Vermont: Write a letter to the editor of your local newspaper
Writing a letter to the editor of your local newspaper can be a great way to foster discussion about marijuana policy reform. While we have provided this list of talking points, we encourage you to write your own letter, as a personally-crafted message is often the most powerful.
You can visit this page to view a listing of newspapers in Vermont. We also have a few tips for writing an effective letter.
- Our current marijuana laws are causing more harm than good: It's time for a new, more sensible approach.
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- A civil penalty system with a $100 fine for personal possession of small amounts of marijuana creates a socially smart and fiscally sound marijuana policy.
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- Passing this bill would be a simple change in the law but would make a world of difference to many upstanding citizens throughout the state. A criminal record can have lifelong, disproportionate consequences, including preventing people from getting a job, student loans, and housing.
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- Thirteen other states have implemented similar marijuana decriminalization laws with no increase in marijuana use, according to the National Research Council. These 13 other states are California, Colorado, Maine, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Mississippi, Nebraska, Nevada, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, and Oregon, and Alaska.
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- Decriminalizing marijuana possession will save Vermonters millions of dollars each year. It makes no sense, in this time of economic hardship, to waste our hard-earned taxes on arresting and prosecuting people for possessing small amounts of marijuana.
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- The bill is overwhelmingly supported by the public. A January 2009 Mason-Dixon poll found that 63% of Vermont voters support this change in the law, while only 27% oppose it. In addition, 65% Massachusetts voters enacted a very similar proposal in November.
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- By citing people caught with small amounts of marijuana, rather than arresting them, we will better utilize our law enforcement resources. Our law enforcement officials should focus their time and our tax dollars on violent crime.
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- Our state should use tax money to prosecute violent crime, not arresting and prosecuting non-violent marijuana users.
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- This legislation does not change any laws related to selling, growing, or trafficking marijuana, nor will it change laws against driving under the influence.
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- It is time that we end the current policy of making otherwise law-abiding people criminals for using a substance that is safer than alcohol.
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Tips for writing an effective letter
1) Keep it short and simple
Papers generally won't print anything longer than 150-200 words. It's best to make one point well, rather than trying to make every point possible. By only making one point at a time, you save your other arguments for future letters.
2) Check your spelling and grammar
Not only are newspapers more likely to print a letter containing no errors, having a spelling or grammar mistake plays into the stereotypes embraced by the opposition. We'd be glad to look over your letter if you'd like.
3) Say only what you know is factually true
Science, math, and reason are on our side; there's no need to make false claims or exaggerations. If you are unsure, check our library or ask us.
4) If possible, respond to a recent story in a timely manner
Papers are generally more likely to publish letters that are in response to recent stories, especially letters than are submitted shortly after the stories were published.
Feel free to contact us if you'd like help with your letter.
