Surely you jest! Your April 24 editorial, “Our View: Lawmakers are right to go slow on pot regulation” (Page A4), makes the astonishing argument that state lawmakers did something worth celebrating by not only sabotaging the people’s referendum vote to support legalization of marijuana, but also taking regressive action to reduce the allowable number of home-grown plants from six to three.

The editorial goes on to quote state Sen. Roger Katz, who said, “We don’t want to be out in front of the other states.” Heaven forbid that Maine should take the lead on any progressive legislation, despite the fact that the state motto is “Dirigo” (“I lead”).

Lawmakers' caution on pot rules, such as cutting the allowed number of home-grown plants from six to three, has left a reader upset. Staff file photo by Gregory Rec

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Perhaps a more appropriate motto might be “Sequor” (“I follow”), as our politicians apparently wish to emulate Congress’ penchant for ignoring the will of the voters, either through inaction or passing legislation exactly opposite of what the majority wishes on so many issues. In Maine we have multiple instances of this (e.g., marijuana, ranked-choice voting, gun control, enacting approved bonds).

The fundamental issue is not whether or not one endorses legalization of marijuana; rather, it is whether or not we adhere to the principle and practice of a true democracy. In this regard, I am reminded of Mahatma Ghandi’s insightful observation: “Democracy is a great institution and, therefore, it is liable to be greatly abused.”

Michael Beaudoin

Portland

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