In its editorial, The Post said, "Colorado and the nation need to have realistic debate about decriminalizing marijuana, but ballot initiative I-100 in Denver doesn't contribute much to that discussion." In fact, the Safer Alternatives for Enjoyable Recreation (SAFER) campaign is the first major addition to the national marijuana debate in years.

There are two substances in this country widely used for recreational purposes - marijuana and alcohol. Despite the fact that every government study ever done has concluded that marijuana is safer - both for the user and society - it remains the illegal drug. This creates a tremendous incentive for people to use alcohol instead of marijuana. Making marijuana legal for adults would undoubtedly result in some people using marijuana instead of alcohol.

With alcohol causing about 85,000 deaths (source: American Medical Association) and factoring in more than 3 million violent incidents each year (source: U.S. Department of Justice), it is a "preposterous assertion" - to use The Post's words - to say this should not be part of the debate over marijuana policy.

Steve Fox, Potomac, Md.
The writer is former director of government affairs for the Marijuana Policy Project.

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I-100 on the Denver ballot is not about legalizing an ounce of marijuana or reducing crime. It is about changing our attitude towards illegal drugs. Those behind Safer Alternatives for Enjoyable Recreation (SAFER) are betting on the ignorance of Denver voters. SAFER has not promoted I-100 as a step towards drug legalization. Instead, it is attempting to send the message that if I-100 passes, Denver will see reductions in domestic violence and alcohol-related injuries, death and societal problems.

SAFER's propaganda does not mention the word "marijuana." This is not a mistake, it is a strategy - a strategy designed to confuse enough voters to get I-100 passed. Denver voters should be insulted. Be an educated voter and make your choice based on the facts. Nothing will change regarding the enforcement of federal and state marijuana laws. The only thing that will change is what we are telling our kids.

Jeffrey D. Sweetin, Special Agent in Charge, Drug Enforcement Administration, Rocky Mountain Field Division