Editor:
I feel that a moratorium on cannabis dispensaries would be a step backwards for Santa Monica ("Council to consider moratorium on pot shops," Sept. 24). City Hall can develop necessary regulations without depriving its residents of a legal outlet from which to procure their medication in the meantime.
I believe it is difficult for anyone to say that there are negative consequences from medical marijuana. However, when citizens are forced to turn to black or gray market sources for a drug, the negative consequences are quite obvious. Black markets foster crime where there would be none.
I hope the City Council decides to set a good example rather than just following the example of other cities, particularly the ones which have taken medicine from people who need and want it while the city leaders scratch their heads.
Maitland Vaughan-Turner
Malibu, Calif.
