The letter below is from Sen. Patty Murray (D-WA) to a Vote Hemp supporter in reply to a letter asking her to introduce a Senate version of H.R. 1866, the Industrial Hemp Farming Act of 2009.

Sen. Patty Murray (D-WA)

If you receive a reply from one of your elected representatives please email a copy of it to us at hempinfo@votehemp.com. It will help with our lobbying efforts to know the contents of these letters. We will not publish your name or address and hold them in confidence.

February 22, 2010

Dear Constituent,

Thank you for contacting me to express your thoughts on our nation's drug policies and legalizing the use of marijuana. It was good to hear from you.

Like many Americans, I am concerned about the high use of drugs, including marijuana, among our citizens, especially for young people. I believe we must continue to work to reduce drug use. One important aspect of our efforts is to send a consistent message to young people about the use of drugs and alcohol. Therefore, I do not support legalizing or decriminalizing currently illegal drugs, including marijuana.

I understand and share some of the concerns expressed about our nation's drug policy, and its effects on civil liberties, privacy, limited budgets, and courts and prisons. These issues certainly should remain a part of the nation's ongoing drug policy debate, and I always consider these views when the Senate addresses drug issues.

While supply reduction efforts will continue to play a prominent role in efforts to reduce drug use, I strongly support drug prevention and treatment efforts that target the demand for drugs, especially for young people.

Again, thank you for contacting me. If I can be of service in the future, please be in touch.

I hope all is well in [town name removed for privacy].

Sincerely,

Patty Murray
United States Senator