This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2014, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
The Legislature is warning us that Utah's prisons will soon be overcrowded. They say we need to spend millions of dollars to expand the prison at Gunnison and move the Draper prison.
Here's a way Utah can save, and even make, tons of money: Decriminalize the possession of marijuana in small amounts. Allow the sale and use of medical marijuana. Release prisoners who have been incarcerated for minor, non-violent drug possession offenses.
Voila! No need to expand or move the prisons! It also would be a big step toward Republicans' goal of shrinking the state government. It seems like a win-win to me.
Carl B. Clark
Magna