COPs on the Hill: Stories from the week of June 4, 2010

 Stories from the week of June 4, 2010

One at a time:    This week an aide to a House Member told me that due to my educational efforts over the past three years with his office, the Congressman is now actively seeking more information on the policy.    Note that it is rare that a staffer would share such a dramatic change in position.   This openness tells me the Tipping Point* is in sight.   Small steps. 

Stamp of Approval:    Check the new section below on the sheet I give to every Congressional staffer.  Yes, I am being a bit more aggressive.    I had two aides I have known for years review it and both said they thought it was effective to point out who supports current policy.

 Supporters of Marijuana Prohibition and Why:

1.  Law Enforcement: reason – smaller paychecks if legal (per FOP)
2. Mexican Drug Cartels: reason – 50% reduction in profits if legal
3. Pharmaceutical Industry: – 1-2% reduction in gross sales ($6-12 billion loss )
4. Illegal USA growers: 90% reduction in gross profits if legal
5. Teens who sell marijuana for status and profit
6. Outlaw Biker Gangs (especially in Canada) – make money w/o breaking a sweat

 Staying Positive:   This recess week of Memorial Day I held a steady pace, averaging 6 presentations each day for a total of 24.   I felt very good entering and leaving the House Buildings and kept a positive attitude all day long.   Glad I figured out not to try and do too much in one day or week.

 *Tipping Point = der Punkt wo die Bevölkerung wird 50% oder mehr, um eine Politik zu ändern

 COP stats since August 2009:

 372 presentations to Congressional Staffers

7 presentations to VIPs (elected officials)

33 published Letters to the Editor (that we know of)

Numerous conferences, hearings & briefings attended.  C-Span broadcast my question at a Senate briefing

11 radio shows

6  TV interviews (Colombian TV, Fox and Univision)

Consider being a member of COPs at $30.00 or more per year.  It is tax-deductible.  Add your voice to those who agree that Modern Prohibition/War on Drugs is the most destructive, dysfunctional and immoral policy since slavery & Jim Crow.  Go to: www.CitizensOpposingProhibition.org and click on Donate/Join – by credit card or check.