Political News: Marijuana vote draws fire

MANCHESTER – Mayor Frank Guinta has asked state Rep. David Scannell to resign as spokesman for the Manchester school district after Scannell voted Tuesday to decriminalize possession of small amounts of marijuana.

Scannell insisted he will not resign, saying his vote is a form of political speech protected by the U.S. Constitution. He also raised the possibility he would take legal action against the mayor or anyone who tries to strip away his job.

In a letter signed yesterday, Guinta said Scannell's vote on the bill, which passed the House but is unlikely to become law, "permanently and irrevocably harms" Scannell's ability to serve Manchester's schools. The mayor argued Scannell's resignation is necessary to "help restore the integrity" of district anti-drug policies.

"He's the face of the district," Guinta said yesterday. "He interacts with kids on a daily basis, and he is taking a position to decriminalize marijuana. That is counter to logic, in my view."

►House roll call on marijuana possession (11)
►Lynch threatens veto after House votes to decriminalize pot (92)
►House backs pot decriminalization (69)

Scannell, 41, has been the district spokesman since March 2004. He also heads the district's safe schools program, an anti-violence initiative. A Democrat, he won the Ward 2 House seat in a special election last May.

In interviews, Acting Superintendent Henry Aliberti and several city school board members said they consider Scannell an upstanding employee. Guinta, too, said he had no qualms with Scannell's performance as the district's coordinator of community relations. The city charter does not authorize the mayor to fire school district employees. Only the school district holds that power, Aliberti said.

SCANNELL

Scannell stood by his vote yesterday, saying he believes the bill would allow young people to "get into a rehabilitative system that enables them to become functioning adults."

"We're not condoning drug use in any way, shape or form," he said.

The bill would make possession of up to one-quarter ounce of marijuana a violation punishable by a $200 fine. Under current law, a person could face a $2,000 fine and jail time and may not be eligible for some forms of college aid.

The bill passed the House by a vote of 193 to 141. It has yet to go before the Senate, and Gov. John Lynch has said he would veto the bill if it reached his desk.

Three Manchester Fire Department employees who double as state representatives also voted in favor of the bill: Jeff Goley, Patrick Garrity and Daniel Sullivan. All three are Democrats.

Guinta has not asked for their resignation and declined to say whether he would.

"I'm focusing on the school district," said Guinta, a Republican considering a run for governor. "We have drug policies that the district is responsible for adhering to, and the person who is responsible for public relations is taking a completely counter view. I think that is going to impact (his) credibility with parents and students."

Guinta said he left a voice mail for Scannell but did not speak with him before he sent the letter asking for his resignation. The mayor sent a copy of the letter to Aliberti.

Aliberti declined to say whether he thinks Scannell should keep his job. He called Scannell a "fine employee" and said he has, in the past, kept his legislative responsibilities separate from his duties as a district employee.

Some members of the Manchester school board rose to Scannell's defense yesterday. Joyce Craig, the committeeman representing the North End, said Scannell's politics should not have any bearing on his job.

Chris Herbert, a Republican representing Ward 4, said he disagrees with Scannell's position on the bill but would not want him to lose his job because of it.

"I don't know what the mayor's deal is. A majority of the House voted for it," Herbert said.

Scannell is a Central High School graduate and has a law degree from the University Maine. Before taking the school district job, he spent several years working as an aide to Mayor Robert Baines.

He currently sits on the board of directors for Makin' It Happen, an organization that discourages children from using drugs, tobacco or alcohol. The group's executive director, Tym Rourke, said Scannell asked to be taken off the board at least a month ago because he took a position with the Bean Foundation, which provides funding for groups like Makin' It Happen. No action been taken yet.

The organization has not taken a position on the bill, but Rourke said he thinks it sends a "dangerous" message that marijuana use is "not a big deal."

YOUR COMMENTS

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" Well, I guess we've discovered which newspaper the state's potheads read each day... "

Well, I guess we've discovered which newspaper the last surviving producers of 'Reefer Madness' read each day.

" I just don't get why people insist on putting junk like that in their bodies. Get a hobby instead. "

I know, I don't know why people put alcohol, tobacco, and basically anything approved by the FDA in their bodies instead, either.

" So, basically the message is: Don't smoke pot (because there is a zero tolerance policy in Manchester) but if you do, it's ok. "

Well, right now the message is don't smoke pot, but if you're a drunken, violent alcoholic, you're truly all-American.

The message also is that if you smoke pot, you'll lose your financial aid, but if you sexually assault someone, you don't need to worry about financial aid, because it will be there, according to the Dept. of Education.

"You idiots are missing the point. He has every right to vote how he wants, the problem is that his job is to get kids not to smoke pot. So how does he tell kids in the schools not to smoke but if you do, don't worry you wont be punished. "

Did he vote to legalize pot? No? Then what exactly are you rambling on about?

Why don't you all just Wikipedia "Alcohol", or "Tobacco", or just listen to a commercial for every FDA wonder drug when it gets to everyone's four favorite words: "Side effects may include..."

" Fact: tobacco and alcohol kill over 500,000 a year
all illegal drugs combined kill 50,000 [ONDPC] "

Wow. Thanks for bringing us those statistics. Guess how many of those deaths are from Marijuana? *ZERO*. The only thing THC has been known to occasionally kill is cancer cells.

" Why would anyone want to encourage another social drug? "

So, according to you, we should keep the drugs that kill 500,000 people a year, but keep marijuana, a drug that kills no one, illegal, because two wrongs don't make a right? Darned libertarians and their godless moral relativism!

"Especially when some aspects of marijuana are worse than tobacco and alcohol combined"

LOL! ...Oh, wait, you were actually being serious.

"Finally, why in the world do we need a school district spokesman? What a waste of tax payer money!"

Ok, the Reefer Madness crowd is free to express their views, but they have no right to use the term "waste of taxpayers' money", when millions upon millions is used to prosecute hundreds of thousands of people with marijuana possession instead of, you know, actual criminals.

" backlash from self-centered, $elf-$erving, and/or uneducated. "

Who are you talking about? The DEA? The Pharmaceutical Industry? The Alcohol lobby? The Timber Industry? Private Rehab Clinics? People who still use 'Reefer Madness' talking points? The Federal Government? Or all of the above?

" It is not that they really love pot all that much it is that they relate it to some leftist ideology"

Leftist ideology? The Drug War is the ultimate leftist wet dream. It's pretty much the exact same as universal healthcare, and universal education: Having the government, with well-intentions, spend endless amounts of money upon a perceived social / societal ill, but end up failing miserably. I see marijuana prohibition as nothing better than gun control as well, except, instead of "guns don't kill people, people kill people," it's "marijuana doesn't kill people... in fact, marijuana doesn't kill anything."

"leftist ideology of the sixties that they just cannot let go of."

Don't forget prohibition, the great social experiment of the leftist ideologies from the 1920s that apparently you forgot about after you were supposed to have learned about it in *Elementary School*

" inferior hemp "

Yeah, ask the countries that are agriculturally producing hemp if they think it's inferior. I forgot which countries grow it, but I think it's somewhere along the lines of every other industrialized nation in western civilization.
- Mark, Concord

Well, I guess we've discovered which newspaper the state's potheads read each day...

If you really think you need easy access to pot that badly, you don't really have a clue do you. I just don't get why people insist on putting junk like that in their bodies. Get a hobby instead.
- Mike, Manchester, NH

So, basically the message is: Don't smoke pot (because there is a zero tolerance policy in Manchester) but if you do, it's ok.

You idiots are missing the point. He has every right to vote how he wants, the problem is that his job is to get kids not to smoke pot. So how does he tell kids in the schools not to smoke but if you do, don't worry you wont be punished. That's the whole point of this.

Thank you Mr. Mayor for leadership!
- Domenic, Manchester

What a hypocrite Mr. Scannell is. First he screams "Free Speech" and then he condemns Guinta for exercising his free speech. Guinta simply expressed his opinion that Scannell should resign. Scannell then reverts to typical Municipal/Union employee attitude and implies that his current job is his for life, as if municipal employees have some divine right to keep their current job until they retire or die.

It amazing that with all of the important problems in today's world, there exists this group of bizarre people whose main goal in life is the legalization of pot. It is not that they really love pot all that much it is that they relate it to some leftist ideology of the sixties that they just cannot let go of.

Finally, why in the world do we need a school district spokesman? What a waste of tax payer money!
- Barry, Manchester, NH

Fact: tobacco and alcohol kill over 500,000 a year
all illegal drugs combined kill 50,000 [ONDPC]

Why would anyone want to encourage another social drug? Especially when some aspects of marijuana are worse than tobacco and alcohol combined, some are not. What increases abuse? According to Dr. Johnston, MI U. two of the main reasons are perceived risk and acceptance. What is being done to undermine these protective factors? Decrim, bogus weed medicine, inferior hemp, and avoid or confuse the consensus of documented harm from the 17,000+ published research to name a few.

Thank you Mayor Guinta for having the wisdom and courage to put the health of your students ahead of the sure to come backlash from self-centered, $elf-$erving, and/or uneducated.

Ed Warrenton, MO
- Ed Moses, Warrenton, MO

Statistically NH consumes more alcohol than any other state thanks to the State liquor stores where you can pull off 93, buy a bottle and continue on your way as you sip and drive.

Ask any HS kid (middle schoolers for that matter) how many teachers they know who smoke pot and/or drink? It's nice that schools have anti-drug policies, but in our district pot smoking (and underage drinking) is widespread already. Don't kid yourself, your district is the same. Anti-drug policy is nice but it's about as affective as the "Just say No" policy.
- judy paris, bradford

Bravo David Scannell! I have watched the drug war ruin lives and soak up money that could be much better applied elsewhere for years now, wondering if the people responsible for this travesty are incompetent or just plain stupid. Pot should never have been made illegal in the first place. It is a harmless drug. Yes, I said it - harmless. It is only some twisted notion of morality that convinces people that pot should be illegal. No credible study has ever found any real harm from pot use, other than the legal issues. It is well about time, folks, that we put aside this anti-American notion that we can collectively tell people what they can and can't do in their personal lifes. This country was founded upon freedom, not repression and we should start living up to that ideal.
- Jack F, Manchester

Good! I am happy that Mr Scannell is not stepping down. Guinta's got some nerve!! Mr. Scannell is representing the PEOPLE when he votes. This is not just his own personal vote. The PEOPLE in New Hampshire would like to see this law pass. Thus the majority vote in the house of representatives. How about Guinta stepping down from his position as mayor?? Guinta's abusing his position of power with this absurd request.
- Diane, NH

I do not see why lessening the penalties imposed on casual users is grounds for asking for a person's resignation. This is not condoning the use of marijuana, but allowing people who deserve another chance just that! The majority of those that responded to this Digg feel that Scannell is right and Guinta is wrong. Some of the nay sayers(I question this word) use unsubstantiated statistics (80% got to cocaine?) People, this is not proposing drug use! It is to allow our kids who make a little mistake to retain a future. read the post by joe kelly, manchester.
- Rich, Warner

And now we allwonder why our city is going to be faced with a massive increase in taxes. Mayor Guinta did not and does not have the ability to lead. I see the dark days of Manchester rapidly approaching. It took years to get Manchester back on the map and it will take Guinta less than 4 years to get us back in the dark days again. The voters only have themselves to blame. People vote for the party instead of the person. Yes, Manchester had non-partisan elections but it is no secret Guinta is a Republican. He wants to cut cut cut til it hurts and at the same time, increase our taxes. He has successfullykept business out of Manchester and is successfully putting the onus yet again on the taxpayers to foot the bill.

This isn't simply about Guinta though. Look at the people elected to the Aldermanic board. Mike Lopez and company are no better. They are more interested in getting their names in the paper for little things than they are coming up with solutions. Politics in this city needs to change otherwise we will be stuck with people like Guinta, Lopez and company.
- Mike, Manchester

Shame on Mayor Guinta and shame on anyone who is uneducated enough to buy into the misconceptions about this issue. Drinking and cigarettes have been proven to be more damaging- yet they are legal.

Beyond that- if you believe a state lawmaker should be punished for something like this- please move- your free-speech hating and intolerant stances are NOT welcome here in NH.

Guinta should be the one to step down for making such blatantly ignorant and politically motivated statements like this.
- Joseph, Hillsborough

Legalise marijuana. It is no worse in fact probably better a drug form than alcohol. I am in my fifties and have seen marijuana and have never seen the effects which even mirror the effects of alcohol. I don't want drinkers or stoners driving cars or working, but as far as I can tell marijuana doesn't leave a hang-over, lead to abusive relationships and may infact if legalised send less people to a doctor for valium. they drive, too. If this 'drug' was legal, it could be monitored for quality and taxed. I am with a person should be over 18 to be able to buy it as like cigarettes, but we need as a society to realise this is not the land of our fathers. Something else political in causing a 'war on drugs' which should rightly be more of a war on alcohol.
- Marci Topolski, Jacksonville, Fl 32210

"You've succeeded! Baby steps, people. Baby steps. Soon, headshops and pot cafes (Amsterdam style) will open up across the state and you'll be living in heaven, right?"

You sound a little paranoid. Marijuana is still illegal. Except now, the penalties for having marijuana are proportional to the harm marijuana does... which is nothing.

But since you mentioned Amsterdam, I bet they have a lot of money free'd up now, since they don't have 1 in 100 of their adults in prison, and that now they're actually able to go after the hard drugs that actually do harm (well, except for alcohol, the worst one of all. That one's still legal.)
- Paul, Manchester

Mayor Guinta has not only lost my respect for his ignorant actions and statements, he has now lost any future votes from me. I think it is wonderful to allow future students the chance to attain federal funding after a possible bad choice made as a child or young adult. So Guinta, go fix a pot hole or something eh? It seems you should have many more larger and pressing issues to attend to.
- Casey, Manchester, NH

Live free or die, indeed.
- Sridhar Ayengar, Poughkeepsie, NY

I think the Mayor missed the boat on this one. The law was not to change small marijuana possession from criminal to non-criminal, but to change the available sentences for possession. This is no different that any other diversion program or drug court. Give the citizens treatment and educational options is stead of labeling them.
- Chris, Washington, DC

From the article "Guinta, a Republican considering a run for governor." this says it all. This is a political stunt schemed by a hack of a Mayor. He cares about nothing but is naked aspirations to power. As far as "lienency" the only people this law will help is the New Hampshire taxpayer. By fining posession we hold costs of incarceration and court expenses and free up capacity for more important crimes. It was a thoughtfull move by the legislature that will improve lives of it's citizenry, no wonder broken government Republicans oppose it.
- Libertine, Asheville NC

Can Anyone tell me what Guinta has done for this city exept put black marks on our record. Its time we get a manchester resident in the hot seat to make some changes for the better. I have lived here all my life and this is by far the worst mayor we ever had. and now he is infringing on peoples amendments. Good luck to our great city.
- Jeff, Manchester NH

"Its amazing how many pot heads are out there, stoned and driving around in a stupor."

When was the last time anyone heard of one of these "pot heads" killing someone on the road, or anywhere else for that matter?

What is really amazing (actually sad) is how many people are ignorant to facts.

What exactly is angel crack dust? Is it new? Is it worse than alcohol?

Alcohol will kill more people today than pot ever will. Why is there no outrage over the State of NH pushing drugs right on your doorstep? We have all seen the flyers in the newspapers for the State liquor stores advertising the upcoming sales available to consumers. Can someone help me out with this one? I would love an intelligent response from any of the “pot is bad” people, but I don’t foresee that happening.

You would have a problem with any other drug trafficker offering "great savings" at your door, wouldn't you?

Even your precious children see the hypocrisy of society here. Scare tactics will be ignored by them and will have the opposite effect you are reaching for when they hear “do as I say, not as I do”.

Lead by example??
- Zizzy, Manchester

I'm amazed the people overreacting to this act of free speach and usage of our rights. Some of you are acting like he tried to sell a bag to your 14 year old kid. Although I can see where you are coming from when you make all these statements. From a completely uninformed and biased hole in the ground where you feel safe. I understand everyone is entitled to an opinion, but when you're opinion is condemning the right to have one? I guess pot heads can be unintelligent but theres no drug needed to be completely oblivious and ignorant.
- Sam, manchester, manchester

Let's roundup everyone in the education system that supports this bill and ask them to resign also! How many do you think we'd lose?
- D.E., Kingston,NH

When circumstances arise such as this one, it makes me really wonder what rights we have. Maybe we should be teaching our children that if someone in a higher rank has an opinion that you don't like, just keep your mouth shut. It's not like we're free thinkers in this country or even have an amendment that allows us to express our thoughts. No please, keep all such opinions to yourself, or I may have to ask you to resign.

Dear Mr. Guinta, is that really the message you want to send?

And,
Maybe it is just me, but perhaps everyone should take the time to really understand the policy that sits before us.

It is not condoning marijuana use, but simply giving people a chance to learn from their mistakes. Is it better that we punish people so highly that they can't turn their lives around? I mean, I believe that we are all human and we all make mistakes, and perhaps, I could be going out on a limb here, people can change their ways?

I stand in favor of this bill because it is not going to turn everyone into a junkie (as similar policies in 11 other states have yet to have done to their citizens) but rather help our young people, our future generation, to pick themselves up without a small error in judgment determining the rest of their lives.

Really, do we want our country to take a step forward or back? Because if you deny people the ability to get an education, a good job and become responsible citizens our future is looking poorer and poorer every day.
- Nichole, Middleton

I don't like force-funded schools or appreciate the leeching of taxpayer dollars to pay their "spokespersons..." But this state rep / school bureaucrat did one thing right...he voted to stop locking kids up so much over a harmless offense. And for THAT he is being punished?

Seems society so often wants to hurt people for the one thing they do right, and reward them for the many things they do wrong.
- Dave Ridley, Manchester

The Free Staters in the New Hampshire legislature and their useful idiot Republican allies have tried to legalize pot outright for years, and have been crushed. This seemingly harmless effort to decriminalize pot use, like last year's so-called harmless hemp legalization, is the "fall back" position they're using to get the camel's nose under the tent. Brilliant strategy, potheads! You've succeeded! Baby steps, people. Baby steps. Soon, headshops and pot cafes (Amsterdam style) will open up across the state and you'll be living in heaven, right?
- Michael, Manchester

"One other problem I have with Rep Scannell's position on this matter is his assertion that decriminalizing pot will help young people "get into a rehabilitative system that enables them to become functioning adults.""

Uh, yes. Usually being able to get financial aid for college tends to help out. I bet you'd be full of self-righteous indignation if a teenager was denied financial aid for underage drinking.

"Let me guess, decriminalizing pot will lower the amount of young people that need rehab? That is ridiculous! Come on people, pot is illegal, it's illegal for a very good reason..."

Uh, it's still illegal. Decriminalization. Not legalization.

"you don't need pot, and it is NOT in our best interests collectively to do anything that will result in more pot use. This is a no-brainer to me."

You don't need alcohol, and it is NOT in our best interests collectively to do anything that will result in more alcohol use. This is a no-brainer to me.
- Paul, Manchester

I think Mayor Guinta's decision to hold Mr. Scannell accountable for his position that Marijuana should not be a criminal defense is the correct action. Although Mr. Scannell has the right to vote the way he'd like, his involvement with the students of the Manchester School District does not allow for him to spout pro-drug arguments. Decriminalizing marijuana sends people the message that marijuana is not a significant problem. Mr. Scannell needs to know that his personal opinions effect the wellbeing of students in the MANSD because of his position, and the position that marijuana is not a threat to young people and their quality of life is a serious problem. Thank you Mayor Guinta for stepping to the plate and calling out Mr. Scannell for his pro-drug vote helps the children of Manchester.
- Leon P, Manchester

No matter what you feel about Mayor Guinta's actions, Mr. Scannell's actions, or the actions of any of the NH reps that voted for this bill, PLEASE READ IT!! Do not buy the posturing by medias that it is a bill to "legalize pot" or even "decriminalize" pot. There is still a fine to pay. Please realize that it is for small amount holding first time offenders - this does not apply to dealers, or "big time" users of drugs or hard drugs such as cocaine or heroin. It does not condone the use of marijuana, it merely lowers the first, SMALL offense reprimands.
I feel for those posters who have family members who are addicts - I have several who have themselves succumbed to addiction, pulling not only their but their families lives into hell. Of course, none of them smoke pot. They all head down to the local, LEGAL, liquor store. Addiction is a problem that's not properly dealt with by jail time, but by counseling and possibly prescriptions under the supervision of a doctor. Despite the sad predicament that our families struggling with addiction are in, this bill is NOT DIRECTED TO OUR FAMILIES. This bill is directed towards the young people that make stupid mistakes - just like speeding tickets and reckless driving tickets are. Yes, it stays with us, but it doesn't encumber our development as competent adults and members of the community. Hopefully, we learn from the mistake, and our parents, who are informed of our "misdemeanor" are now more involved in our lives to help lead us to a good path.
- Leah, Manchester, NH

Rep Scannell looked into the bill and saw that it would give a kid a second chance instead allowing a pot conviction to severely hurt him for years to come.
I admire him for standing up for his right to express himself without being afraid of Big Brother.
- Bill, Manchester

There were several mentions to the fact that some police and law enforcement are against this type of bill, so I thought I would point out that there are also many law enforcement officers that say it doesn't make sense to continue to enforce the 69 billion dollar per year totally ineffective drug laws. Check out the group law enforcement against prohibition.
- Rosie, Manchester

Hmmm, let's see. Does Mayor Guinta have a squeaky clean past? Never inhaled? Not once? Maybe if he had, and been busted for a jay or two, he wouldn't be mayor. He would've been thrown in jail, fined some outrageous amount, and had an otherwise bright future turned upside down ... all for youthful indiscretions. That happens to too many bright kids and that's why Scannell and a majority of the N.H. House supported the decriminalization bill.

Mayor Guinta, stick to filling Manchester's potholes and continuing the reinvigoration of a fine city. Your misguided morality tirade against an elected official is not your finest hour and reflects poorly upon your judgement as a possible governor.
- Eric, Hancock

Good for Guinta. Give him credit for putting his neck out agaisnt this jerk. Its amazing how many pot heads are out there, stoned and driving around in a stupor. And lets not forget that the Free state movement is behind this. They are gaining more and more control over our state goverment.
- dave, Manchester

Guinta is a blowhard. Once he realizes that his shameless political posturing has backfired. he will most likely retract his request and hopefully apologize.
- Matt, Concord, NH

Yep, Here we go again... people not reading before posting. No where did it say Scannell wanted to legalize marijuana. He voted to bring the punishment more in line with the crime.... and that is what punishment and fines are supposed to be. For guinta to be asking for a resignation because he doesn't like the way someone voted, then we should ask for the resignation of everyone. Since, at some point in the careers, everyone voted in a way someone else did not like. We are going to be one sorry state if Guinta runs for governor and wins. Just look how he is running this city.
- Greg, Manchester

"Cheers, how I can't believe this bill passed. Smoking marijuana is like playing a game of Russian roulette. If you smoke it and it's laced with angel crack dust, you could die.

Scannell should be put in jail for his vote. We should not allow or legislators to encourage child death. Please, Mr. Bush, come in and arrest all our legislators."
-Reggie

Reggie.... No one sprinkles pot with angel dust, you are nuts. Also, No representative should be arrested for voting on an issue that contradicts current law. That is a protection garenteed by our constitution. That is what makes this country so great.
- Keith, Manchester

Why is Guinta outing one person's vote on this bill..by the numbers it looks like majority said yes to the bill so why does he feel the need to only say 1 persons name and the way they voted? This man should not be threatened with his job because Guinta disagrees with him on a vote. Guinta give me a break...do something worth while like fix the issue with medical coverage for people in our sate or help our homeless! Much bigger issues i say than being childish. This bill should pass..why make tax payers pay money for all these individuals to spend time in jail for such small amounts of a non lethal drug. People should be less ignorant with the issue of marijuana. Has someone died from marijuana? Or gotten cancer from it? Anything serious happen? I'm not sure but..not that i know of and if something has than im sure it was a cause of something it may have been laced with...so then the culprit would the additive NOT the marijuana right? Get real people...people you know have done it or do it...and you may have no idea..but you like them anyway right..if you knew would you change in a heartbeat and not like them just because. Hmmm..how about your DR.'S..lawyers..cops...surgeon..bank teller..etc... lets find better things to fight for..like a cure for cancer..help stop child abuse...help our homeless..something REALLY..
- Rebecca, Manchester

"The Emperor Wears No Clothes."

Although I no longer live in NH, this is by far the most progressive idea to ever cross the NH border.
David Scannell should be commended for his stance on the subject, as he would probably prevent some of his cities students from being arrested. The demographic for people who would possess these small amounts of marijuana primarily lay within the range of 13 to 25. These are individuals who are trying to become tax payers. And if my memory serves me correct, many of my friends had trouble getting career or industry jobs due to non violent crimes on their otherwise clean rap sheets. Manchester should not only decriminalize marijuana, but also encourage it for its medical uses. I think Mr. Scannell's stance is an encouraging step torwards a liberal future in NH. This state drives its citizens out with its dust covered ethics. Stop letting ATF dictate what substances actually do to you. And the gateway drug is actually perpetual stupidity. Those who want the truth will seek it. PLEASE READ "The Emperor Wears No Clothes" by Jack Herer
- Stephen, Los Angeles, CA

I'm interested to know how Mr. Whitson and Mr. Brooks even knew about the letter from Mr. Guinta to Mr. Scannell in the first place. Did the "Honorable" Mayor even let the ink dry before faxing it over to the Union Leader? I'm sorry to say, it appears that the Mayor forgot to pack his class along with the rest of his baggage when he moved up from New Jersey to dictate his morals to New Hampshire citizens and to suppress the right to freedom of expression. And didn't I recently read something about his aide skulking around barber shops looking for "immoral activity?" What exactly is going on in Manchester's City Hall and, more importantly, is this what we can expect from a Guinta administration in Concord?
- Cathy, New Boston

Drugs are illegal and anyone using them should be prosecuted to what the law allows. you can not tell kids not to use them and then say its ok in small amounts . There illegal.
- shawn harrison, Manchester NH

So this is a preview of "Governor Guinta"? How could he uphold the law when he does not even know it?! Remember this if he sticks around to run for 'high' office.

Mayor Boy Wonder wears his political holsters loose and shoots first. Seems he shot up the Bill of Rights this time as well as his foot.

Get him out of our "Live Free or Die" state before he does more damage.
- Rob S, Northwood

As a sixth-generation resident of Manchester, I was appalled by the actions of Mayor Guinta with regard to this issue. I have known David Scannell for over eight years and I know that he has always worked diligently to create a better Manchester for our city's children.

As a Republican, I may not agree with Dave's stand on the marijuana vote, but I understand the reasoning behind his vote.

Mayor Guinta has once again chosen politics over policy and has decided to take aim at a dedicated, long-time public servant of this city to further his own political ambitions.

Good luck, Mayor, if you decide to run for governor -- many democrats, independents, and republicans (including me) will then have the chance to tell the state of New Hampshire exactly what your record in this city has been. It is funny that a man so easily able to criticize others for lack of foresight with regard to the state's budget is now telling us that our city taxes may have to increase by double-digits due to problems with our own budget.
- Kevin F., Manchester NH

Shame on you Mayor, for stiffling another person's freedom to vote according to their conscious. By doing so in this instance, you've infected every future vote and voter who works for the city. Now, subscounsciously or not, those voters will have to worry about whether voting true to their heart will eventually cost them their job. I'm no lawyer, but there's got to be some cause there for a civil suit against him.

It's too bad that it wasn't a sex scandal, I could forgive him for that.
- Michael Ursitti, Manchester NH

This issue needs to be put on a larger pedestal than the"union Leader".
Not that the U.L. has anything wrong with it, but "Mayor" Guinta needs to be exposed as the fraud he is.
- Randy L. Cobleigh, Manchester

I feel no great need to defend marijuana. It is a gateway drug just like alchahol.

Since it is illegal though, its use can have more serious impact on a person's life. Many young people experiment with behaviors and then abandon them later in life as they mature. Reducing the criminal responsibility for small amounts consistent with personal use, will provide a second chance for people who are caught with it.

Perhaps the law should allow a graduated system for 1st time Vs. repeat offenses, to emphasize this point.

Our country has the largest percenatge of its population in prison, in the world. I can't see where a few joints in someone's pocket justifies the expense of housing and supervising a person for a year. Plus, the social trauma and stigmatization.

I really don't see that our society is getting value for the effort.
- KEN, MERRIMACK NH

I applaud the actions of Mayor Guinta in condemning a pro-drug vote by the spokesman for the school district. Although it is the constitutional right of Mr. Scannell to vote his mind, his position requires him to be prudent in his choices. Beyond his rights as a State Representative, the fact that a man with close affiliation to the Manchester School District and therefore the policy and practice that shape the youth in this city deem him unfit to serve if he thinks the use of drugs should not warrant criminal penalty. Scannell should have simply opted out of the vote, no matter what his opinion. He now calls into question whether or not he indeed has the best interest of the children of the Manchester School District in mind.

Well done Mayor!!
- Nicholas, Manchester

I think the Mayor is 100% right. Mixed messages to our children is not the way to go. If you ever had a child with a drug problem you would agree.
- Bob, Manchester

It's unthinkable that any school board member would want a child to pass over Marijuana and move onto harder, more available drugs such as heroin, cocaine, and ALCOHOL.

I know there are 0 deaths a year nationwide from Marijuana, but we should still stop this scourge. Death Penalty for all Marijuana users.

and they call NH the 'live free or die' state?? Personally, it should be called the "too stupid to read" state. . .because anyone that can read, knows that marijuana is a harmless drug in all senses of the word.

I'm sure some beaurocrat will fight me on this. . . thankfully I CAN read.
- Anton Lee, Seabrook

Kids make mistakes. Condemning them to a lifelong criminal record and all of the restrictions on our liberties that that implies and carries with it is ABSOLUTELY ABHORANT. I do not smoke pot, nor am I a criminal, but I was a wild kid and had a few close calls and things could have been drastically different for me had the law not gone easy on me. Kids are stupid, and good kids will occasionally make bad choices. Do not ruin our children's lives in the name of absolute government control.
- John Beauchemin, Burlington, MA

If any of the anti-pot people were really concerned with the “children" getting the wrong message about drugs, why have none of you commented on the article about the SLC spending millions to advertise the sale of alcohol? Why are you not on a soapbox trying to make alcohol illegal? Do you feel that it is not a drug? Do you drink but say someone else shouldn’t be allowed to do a less harmful and dangerous drug? What kind of message does that send to the "children"? The State of NH can push drugs that actually KILL INNOCENT PEOPLE and you are all OK with that? Talk about uninformed hypocrisy. The “children” see thru all of that just like most people with a brain. The more “taboo” you make something that isn’t as dangerous as the legal drug alcohol, the more a teenager will want to experiment with it.

Are there any anti pot posts that have facts to back up the lame attempts at humor and or uninformed opinions?
- Zizzy, Manchester

Cheers, how I can't believe this bill passed. Smoking marijuana is like playing a game of Russian roulette. If you smoke it and it's laced with angel crack dust, you could die.

Scannell should be put in jail for his vote. We should not allow or legislators to encourage child death. Please, Mr. Bush, come in and arrest all our legislators.
- Reggie, Nashua

It is very interesting that Doug from Alton and Seth from Westmoreland have the exact same post....

Come on NHDP, at least tell your interns to change things around a bit when they post the party talking points more than once on the same message board!
- Dennis, Manchester

I disagree with the vote and would have voted different myself.

With that said, no Representative should have to worry about his job because of a vote he makes in the legislature. If people do not like his votes, then there is a remdy, vote him out of office.

Slowly government officals are trying to link unpopular political stances to a person's private life. That way they feel they can have more control.

I applaud Rep. David Scannell stance for free speech.
- Doug Hogue, Merrimack

Hey Bill, what part of free speech don't you understand? If there is a cost to speaking, then it isn't free - is it?

Mr Scannell did exactly what he was elected to do. His vote represented the will of the majority of NH citizens. Mr Guinta has a right to his opinion, but calling for Scannel's resignation because he doesn't agree with his vote is clearly over the line.

At least Mr Scannell had the guts to vote instead of taking the 'political savvy' way out by not voting. The reason we have unqualified, and incompetent people in positions of power like Guinta is because they are only good at playing the system for their own gain instead of working to understand the issues and do what's best for their constituents.
- Ron, Portsmouth

Guinta apparently thinks he can legally ignore our constitutional rights.
Shame on you Mayor Guinta. You forget that parents and Manchester residents remember every single positive quality that Mr. Scannell has brought to our community - as a lifelong resident, unlike you.
- joco, manchester,nh

You may or may not like how the mayor of our wonderful crime ridden city of Manchester voted on this subject but he has a right to vote any way he chooses. So do each and every one of you. Let's see how he fairs come election time when you all go to vote.
- Stephanie, Manchester

Hey Guinta!!! ( you New Jersey transplant) this is America!! You power crazy creep! Asking for the resignation of an elected official for casting his vote the way he sees fit? Your crazy!!! Maybe all the people who voted for you should be stripped of their right to vote!
If I lived in Manchester, I would be circulating a petition for a recall on your position as Mayor. You need to be Gone!
Once again, this is America, where elected officials vote the way they see fit. Evidently its different in New Jersey
- Seth, Westmoreland

Mayor Guinta has every right to ask for his resignation. Coming from a school board official that is supposed to be boasting a 0 drug tolerance then hipcritically vote to decriminalize marinjuana!!!! No wonder why the manchester school district is suffering so badly....I wonder how many $200 fines this guy will end up with...........
- C Langlois, Manchester

Once again I am ashamed of my Mayor. I voted for him; the lesser of evils. Can't anyone run who supports limited govt., decreased spending, lower taxes, AND NH values of individual rights? Mayor Guinta, you are neither honorable, nor respectable; I will stay home before I cast a vote for you again.
- Brian G., Manchester

I am no fan of the mayor's approach here, but his critics need to gain some sense of proportion. Mr. Guinta is NOT suppressing anyone's free speech rights. Mr. Scannell indeed voted; had the mayor arrested Mr. Scannell to prevent him from voting, then we could talk about a speech rights violation.

What critics seem to be suggesting is that we all have a right to freely express ourselves -- without consequences! But that is NOT how speech works. Moreover, Mr. Guinta is ALSO freely expressing his opinion, an opinion that is protected from censorship but not consequence: Mr. Guinta freely speaks that Mr. Scannell should resign. Are his critics denying HIS speech rights?

Lastly, there are analogues to consider. What if Mr. Scannell was the police chief in Manchester and yet voted in the state house to reduce restrictions against cop-killing? What if he was fire chief and voted to lessen restrictions on arson? What if he was head of the mayor's task force on pedophilia and child abuse and yet voted to reduce fines and sentences for sexual predators? Surely there would be FALLOUT from these, no?

What Mr. Scannell failed to do was to use his political savvy. Realizing his potential conflict, he should have supported the bill among his peers but NOT voted at all. Smart politicians do that all the time.
- Bill Gnade, Hancock

In response to JT in Manchester, you are correct this is DAVE'S personal opinion and he has a right to have one. The problem is that as a State Representative he is not there to express his opinion, he is there to represent the opinions of the people who elected him. This is the basic premise of our government system. Elected officials are supposed to represent the will of the people, not their own self serving opinions. As soon as the general public understands this and holds elected officials accountable for not representing the will of the people the sooner our government will be more representative of the population.
- Scott, Manchester

There is an alternative to busybodies such as Lynch and Guinta. If you're like me and support freedom of choice, then look to the Libertarians. Sue Newell for Governor!
- Morey Straus, Manchester, NH

I think Mr. Guinta has more important things to be worrying about such as NOT raising our taxes 15%. I cannot believe that he had the audacity to ask for Mr. Scannell's resignation....it seems like he's always asking for someones resignation....maybe WE ought to ask for his. I went to high school with Mr. Scannell, and although I haven't seen him in many, many years, I trust his judgment and integrity. I have a child in the Manchester School System, and I believe that there is more than enough education to students on facts of drug use and abuse. If they're going to do it, they're going to do it, whether it's "decriminalized" or not. Mr. Guinta needs to do some research on the topic at hand. I think he'll find that it's safer than alcohol and other hardcore drugs, and reports indicate that emergency visits (i.e. police, fire and emergency room) are generally NOT related to someone under the influence of marijuana. I'd rather sit in a room with stoned people than drunks. Also, maybe look at the $$ that will be saved by not putting these people in prison for possession WITHOUT intent to distribute. It's a waste of everyone's time and money. And to the person who said that only pot smokers support this bill....you are wrong! Maybe it's a question that ought to go on our voting ballots instead of issues that we really don't care about! I believe that Mr. Guinta and Gov Lynch (I do respect Gov Lynch) would be very suprised by the outcome of such a vote.
I believe this whole issue is being blown out of proportion..it's not like people will be smoking a joint on Guinta's precious City Hall steps, or, pick up a pack at the corner store. This from a state that approved gay marriage?!?!
- Lisa, Manchester, NH

John from Warner,

Marijuana is not a physically addictive substance and causes less damage to your health than alcohol or cigarettes.

As for it being a "gateway drug," if a teen doesn't know the difference between the effects of cigarettes, alcohol, pot, cocaine, heroin, etc. then they are horribly mis/uninformed or lack some basic cognitive faculties. Either way, chances are that pot wouldn't lead them down that road any more than a large number of legally acquirable substances would.

With regard to your "slippery slope" argument...that's ridiculous. Of course they would discriminate between drugs based on danger! That is perfectly acceptable. Discrimination based on threat and/or danger of things like weapons, for instance, is done all the time. That's why I can carry a pocket knife around, but not a rocket launcher. Same deal for situational use of substances. I can have a beer at a bar, but I can't drink one while I'm driving, because it's far more dangerous to myself and those around me.
- DB, Manchester

I am so proud of David. Keep up the good work and stand up to Guinta. This is an important bill and I hope the Governor signs it.
- Nick, Manchester

I haven't seen anything that is going to "legalize" pot. It doesn't legalize pot; it makes it a less seriuos offense. Nobody's life, adult or child, should be ruined for a small quantity of pot. I don't smoke it but I honestly don't see it as any better or worse than alochol. It also isn't any more of a gateway frug than alcohol. I'm sure none of the naysayers drink; right?
- Steve, Londonderry, Nh

I am amazed at how many people have posted to this article! Thats lot of passion for this issue, on both sides. I just want to say that I disagree with Guinta. Now I don't know if he is a drinker of alcoholic beverages, but I am sure that a very large percentage of parents with children in school do drink. To me, that's where the bad example for your children lies, and if I were an extremist, I would say that anyone who drinks should not be allowed to make any decisions regarding our schools or our children. But alas, our values are a bit skewed and those that scream to keep the criminal penalties on small amounts of pot will go home and have a nice drink to calm their frazzled nerves.
- Molly, Manchester, NH

Well it seems that we are not allowed any more to have freedom of speech or vote without having someone judge you for your comments or decisions. I though this is a free state and country. Its good to know that there are people that see things a little different, and see that there could be a good outcome about ligalizing Marijuana.
- Dan, Manchester NH

Hey Manch folks! Since when is voting grounds for dismissal? Scanell should take legal action against Guinta for his comments. When are you people going to demand Frank Guinta's resignation? How far does Manchester need to fall before you get it?? Where is Guinta's criticism of Will Infantine (fellow Guinta Republican) who voted the same way as Scanell? Scanell's vote (which is part of our democratic process) doesn't make possession legal, his vote simply attempts to leave a path open for a young violator to redeem themselves. These young people deserve a second chance to take the right path for this level of crime. You've certainly given Mayor Failure many more chances than 2, and his major failures have had far greater impacts.
- Jim M, Hooksett, NH

Mr. Guinta needs to explain how giving a student a criminal record for life is in that students best interest. The current law is essentially a one strike; you’re out – for life. The purpose of this bill is to fix that flaw in the law.

The concern about relaxed penalties leading to a spike in usage is unfounded. It seems reasonable that tougher penalties will reduce use, but a recent federal study done by SAMHSA found otherwise. Penalties and usage rates were studied in all states, and although NH was in the top 10 states for severe penalties; it was also in the top 10 for usage rates!

Overall the study concluded there was no correlation between penalties and usage rates. Why? The report concluded that younger people are inherently risk takers who don’t believe they will get caught. Also, the study found while most people know that pot is illegal, they were not aware of the penalties and the long term ramifications of getting caught until it was too late – i.e., in front of a judge.

The point of this bill is to give a young person who made a mistake a chance to straighten up so they can pursue an education and a career and be a contributing tax payer. Repeat offenders will still be dealt with harshly. The current law penalizes a person for life which effectively increases their burden on the state by reducing their earnings potential and their ability to pay taxes.

Mr. Guinta needs to inform himself of the facts before spouting off. Otherwise he comes across as a self serving opportunist trying to advance his political career at the expense of others.
- Paul, Portsmouth

I do not care what anybody says! Yes, he is in a position of authority, Yes, he deals with children on a daily basis.
But do you expect me to belive that the "Mayor" can strong arm someone into changing their vote?!?! This is absurd! What happened to the "Land of the Free"? "Live Free or Die"? Did we not spend the last 200 years getting away from this type of leadership? I mean the man is not handing out joints at school? Is he? Is he directly promoting drug use? What child/teenager can afford a $200 fine? And is parental notification going to be included in this bill? The morons in this state got rid of it for teenage abortion! Stop and think about your actions before you make them concrete. Punishing someone for a vote, no matter what the vote, is throwing away everything this country has worked so hard for!
If it bothers you THAT much, take action by voting for someone else next time. The "Mayor" is the only one who should be considered for punishment.
- Randy L. Cobleigh (Ind), Manchester

That is Dave's PERSONAL opinion and the mayor has no right to tell him how to vote. Doing so in unconstitutional and David could sue the mayor for doing so. It is like asking someone to resign because they are gay--again unconstituional. Shame on you Mayor Guinta.
- JT, Manchester

The vote to decriminalize pot is entirely in keeping with so much else taking place by so-called "adults" in relation to children. According to Diana West's book _The Death of the Grown-Up_, Scannell has a truly frightening lot of company.
- Louise, Moultonboro

I'm a socially conservative Republican, but anyone with common sense would know that if someone gets caught with a small amount of marijuana, their life should not be destroyed, which is what having it be a misdemeanor would do. This gets back to the debate of whether we (the Republicans) will be a Bill Bennett/Rudy Giuliani law and order party or a William F. Buckley libertarian/conservative party. Guess we know which side Mr. Guinta is on. I also find it ironic, though not surprising, that Guinta ally Will Infantine voted the same way as Mr. Scannell, and you don't hear Guinta speaking about that. This is partisanship at its worst. As a disclaimer, I have never smoked pot in my life.
- Joe, Manchester, NH

What´s wrong with you Mr. Guinta? Are you going to doctrinate the Reps. from Manchester? Any representative form NH is and it will be free to vote any way they want no matter what. It seems that Bush is coming to NH to tell us what to do.
- Lori, Manchester

This mayor is a maniac. What is he thinking asking Mr.Scannell to resign? This is unethical in my opinion. Also Gov. Lynch's stand to veto the bill is pointless. I don't think he realizes that more than half his state indulges in the herb. I beleive our state motto is " Live FREE or die", is it not? There are too many close minded beings who need to consider the benefits of decriminalization. It is like the world is going to end if this bill is passed.
- Jon, N.woodstock

Seems like Mayor Guido is setting Manchester up for a nice little lawsuit. It's ok, taxpayers will pay. Also, to Mr. Lynch, isn't NH's motto, live free or die? It's not Legalizing it, it's only putting penalties in perspective.
- Peter, Manchester

To answer Mr Haggerty; no a "violation" is not considered a "crime" in NH...legally speaking
- dick bean, manch

I seriously can't beleive some of the people posting on this site. On one hand, the Democrats rant and rave about caring about children and accuse Guinta for not taking enough interest in schools (which is completly untrue), but then when he takes a stand against an individual who voted to make it easier for teens to get away with having pot, they slam him. Shame on all of you. Just because Scannell is a Democrat, you all flock to protect him.

It has nothing to do with free speach. Scannell should learn that if he is going to be in Concord saying one thing, it will and should affect his political position in Manchester. Cerainly it doesn't matter how some firefighters voted, but when an individual holding this much power votes the way he did, he should be held accountable. Bravo Guinta, sometimes its tough to go against whats popular when you know its right. Thats the man I want leading my city and hopefully my state.
- Derek Myers, Manchester, NH

How much longer until we vote Monster Guinta out? His days are numbered
- MIKE, manchester

It is insane that we have a law that locks up people for a year for possession of a small amount of a naturally occurring plant while alcohol, tobacco and prescription drugs kill hundreds of thousands of Americans every year. Prohibition in the 1920s didn't work, it gave us organized crime- prohibition of drugs has given us cartels of very rich and very dangerous criminals as well. Call me skeptical, but I believe that if Anheuser Bush or Pfizer saw a way that they could make money from marijuana, it would be legal.
As for New Hampshire's vote- shame on John Lynch and shame on this mayor. "Live Free or Die" is only a slogan for them when politically advantageous to them apparently, and please spare me the argument that you're protecting children with your stance- if that is so then how on earth is it that tobacco is legal in this state? How about hard liquor? How about oxycontin? Those are FAR more dangerous than marijuana.
- Penny, Dover

Mayor Guinta is misled and mistaken. In fact he ought to apologize to Mr. Scannell for seeking to violate his right to free political speech as a state representative. What Guinta has done is chilling to any person who believes in the the US Constitution and the American way. Scannell did nothing unprofessional and nothing incongruent with the school district policies. Guinta is the one who ought to resign for his lack of respect for our constitution and the way government ought to work at the municipal level. The mayor asking for a school district employee to resign is completely out of bounds and seems quite frankly, despotic.
- Anthony, Concord

It's 10am and already 58 posts! I would of thought the stoners would still be sleeping, but they are out in full force this morning.

Its a shame that people don't get this excited for meetings on how the state, and local muni's waste our tax dollars. Maybe a pot vote should be put onto every municipal agenda to draw interest.
- DFM, Salem, NH

Maybe the Mayor should consider stepping down along with the Governor for being so far out of touch with reality?

I cannot believe that Marijuana is even a issue in today's society with the amount of abuse with prescription medications and other substances that have far less testing done and proven to be far more damaging to our children. Are there people in society that really have not been exposed to pot or are they just being in denial or maybe trying to do what they think is politically correct?

The penalties are far more damaging to our society then the sustained use of the substance.
- Dave, Bow, NH

Dean from Georgia, who said, "The guy genuinely wants to help kids," is dead wrong. Helping kids is telling them that getting stoned is profoundly immoral and as a practical matter, stupidity. But by saying "Small amounts are okay," the messge being sent is that it definitely IS okay, and us adults are going to wink at it and not complain. I'm amused at the fellow here who called Guinta a "transplant," considering the huge number of Free Stater transplants who have come here to make this a "Libertarian paradise" where pot use and other drug use is just another "right."
- Stephen, Manchester

Guinta Anti-First Ammendment (wants to restrict freedom of speech), Anti-Second (was against the machine gun shoot), and Tenth Ammendment (wants big brother to decide everything). Guinta is Anti-Freedom and Anti-NH. I am Anti-Guinta!
- Jeremy, Manchester

Mr. Mayor, THANK YOU for a corageous stance!

Ask a cop, or a parent who has a teen hooked on drugs. It IS a drug and it is a gateway drug.

Now that they have set a prescedent when will they decriminalize other drugs used only in small amounts.

To not do this would be discrimination against the other drugs.

The drugs will get depressed and start using humans.

You know who suports this. Drug users support it.

Now me must also look at alcohol in a motor vehicle. Open containers must be legalized, as long as there are less than four open at one time.
- John, Warner

We live in a state where the biggest drug dealer is the state government. We maintain a website listing every available bottle of liqour in the state and which store it can be found at. We then sell that liqour at a huge discount compared to other places in the US. You can not travel on our highway system without coming across one. What message does that send to our children Mr Guinta? How many children will be mistreated today or go without a decent meal because Mom and Dad bought some state sponsered liqour and are now to drunk to care.
- John, Greenland

Um I'm sorry, but the mayor needs to stop mixing the state with the school...this vote was a personal and political thing and doesn't necessarily reflect Mr. Scannell's involvement in a negative manner with the school district. If the rep's votes anger the citizens, then they will vote accordingly. I wonder how the mayor would feel if all the citizens who disagree with him finally stood up for some of the stupid things he's done and asked him to resign...
- Regina, Derry

Frank Guinta=John Lynch
- John, Manchester

Mr. Scannell is right for having an opinion for himself. Have any of you read the bill he proposed? It didn't make hemp legal. It just made so the kids don't lose their government funding and have a record. The guy genuinely wants to help kids, and I'm sure if he sees kids, he doesn't tell them "I vote YES for pot, cause' it's okay!". He probably expects parents at home to tell their kids "SAy no to drugs", and then worries about straight A Johnny who just gets off path for a little while, causing him to lose any hope of financial aid and a decent job. Think about it, there's still a penalty, just not a lifelong one, which they don't deserve. Way to go, Mr. Scannell.
- Dean, Athens, GA

Let's remember that this legislation reduces the penalty for having possession of small amounts or marijuana. It in no way legalizes it. To me this makes sense. Let's not put someone in jail for possession of 1 joint, lets save that jail space for someone who has committed a more violent crime.
And to Mayor Guinta, don't tell my Representative how to vote or threaten his job because of a vote, we the people vote them into office and they are there to represent us, not the city or school district.
- Pete, Manchester

Pro-pot people would learn the folly of this when their little darlings tried to stiff the dealer (where do you think it comes from?) and had a bunch of thugs bust into their home with shotguns at 3am to collect.

The only problem I have with that is when they get the wrong house.
- Mike R., Bedford

Sounds good to me, if you don't agree with a persons position try to fire them. Good to see not only Nashua has an overmatched individual running the city. "Live Free or Die" does anyone still remember this slogan ???
- Todd, Nashua, NH

I can't believe that so many people still support the current punishment for such a trivial crime. "Pot is an evil gateway drug that would cause the downfall of our society if decriminalized!" What a silly and outdated mentality.

I've never tried pot, and probably never will; I'm not a fan of volunteerily pumping any kind of smoke into my lungs. That doesn't stop me from recognizing how hypocritical and exorbitant the current laws/punisments concerning it are.

"Argh, look how relaxed and goofy he's acting! That's offensive! Quick, take his money, toss him in jail alongside convicted murders, and deprive him of any means of bettering himself (e.g. higher education). That'll fix things, for sure."
- DB, Manchester

I realize that this is because he is looking for cred among the statewide GOP, but the Mr. Mayor is wrong on this.

Mr. Scannell was voting as a member of the House, not as a representative of the Manchester School District. He should vote his conscience and how he feels best represents his district, not how his bosses want him to vote. If Mr. Guinta wants to control a vote in the legislature, let him run for a seat there.

Anyway, Mr. Scannell's vote was the correct one.
- Jason, Londonderry

I posted earlier, and I have to say that I'm dismayed by the posts so far. People seem to be missing the point. This is not about marijuana. This is about our constitutional rights. There cannot and should not be any sort of political litmus test for public employees. That's why public employees are not employees-at-will, but have the job protection of due process built into their employment relationship. If you're a public employee, you cannot be fired for the political views you express of the political votes you make.
- Dom, Weare

I thought our representatives were elected to represent the views of their constituents, rather than using their positions for "political speech protected by the U.S. Constitution." Let the voters of Manchester decide whether this guy truly represents them and deserves to stay.
- Ann, Derry, NH

Guinta is a fool. This man voted on a piece of legislation and his vote has nothing to do with his job. Just because guinta still lives in the dark ages and does not agree with Scannell does not mean he has the right to tell him to step down.
Stand your ground councilor and tell people like Guinta to mind their own business.
Once again it's about "look at me" and politics instead of what is right and what the constituion allows.
- Bill B., Pelham

Thank you Mr. Scannell - It's about time our leaders recognize that our drug war policy is a failure! It is people like you that we need for leadership right now. People that have the strength to make a decision based of facts and not fear! You will always have my vote.
- JR, Manchester

As a lifelomg republican and an early supporter of Frank Guinta for mayor, I'm ashamed of the purely political position he has taken. Mayor, you can't out-Lynch Lynch so think of some other way to convince the public that you should be governar.
- Bill, Manchester

Doesn't the mayor have anything better to do?
I applaud Scannell for making the right choice for the youth of NH, keep kids in school and out of jail. The mayor should focus on his job, not the jobs of others.
- Erick, Manchester

Manchester Voters You get What you vote for. The Rep is an elected official. Let the people decide to through him out next election. For another elected offical to request a resignation from another elected official because of disaggreements on political issues is Obsurd. The official requesting the resignation should resign. Guonta must of been the schoolyard Bully.
- Chuck, Derry NH

This is absolutely ridiculous. No public official should be punished for voting a certain way on a bill, especially having to serve a punishment by termination. The mayor is completely overstepping his boundaries and is out of line, bordering on unethical. The fact that this bill is causing this kind of backlash in the "live free or die" state and similar bills have been passed in other states is embarrassing and only furthers the national stereotype of New Hampshire being behind the times.
- Shane, Hooksett

The New Hampshire House is the most truly representative legislative body on earth. For those of you who want to keep locking up pot users, be aware you are firmly in the minority.
- Earl, Goffstown

Reefer Madness and political grandstanding! Dogs and cats living together! Mass hysteria!!!
- JB, New Boston, NH

I am not sure under what authority Mayor Guinta thinks he has the right to ask for the resignation of David Scannell for Mr. Scannells political vote on decriminilizing possession fo small amounts of marijuanna. First of all, anybody who knows David knows he is an honorable person who has worked very hard for the City of Manchester and who has worked hard for the school distrcit.
Second, Mayor Guinta has no right to interfere with the employment status of David Scannel simply because he does not agree with David's First Amendment rights. David's vote is a form of protected free speech and for Mayor Guinta to seek out the resignation of Mr. Scannel is political interference on behalf of the Mayor.
Even though some may not believe in our constitutional rights the fact is we live in a country which exists because of our constitutional rights. . Simply because a Mayor with an agenda doesn't like Mr. Scannell's protected free speech does not mean he has the right to interfere with Mr. Scannell's employment.
"He's the face of the district," Guinta said yesterday. "He interacts with kids on a daily basis, and he is taking a position to decriminalize marijuana. That is counter to logic, in my view."
Mayor Guinta makes David out to be some kind of a monster which is definitely not the case.

Shame on the Mayor and those who helped him draft the letter. Mayor Guinta should rescind his request for resignation and should publicly apologize to Mr. Scannel for crreating a false impression of Mr. Scannell.
- Mike Porter, Manchester

Do we need a bully in the Corner Office? Guinta's stand makes for good headlines but lousy governance.
- Putney, Plaistow

Ridiculous. Put the thought police on high alert. The guy voted to change a law, not break one. I hope Guinta never becomes governor.
- Mike, Allenstown

I agree with Mayor Guinta. Rep Scannell, despite claims to the contrary, is indeed encouraging the use of marijuana and that is not in the school district's interests. If you make the penalties lighter, more people will use marijuana because they know all they'll get is a slap on the wrist. It really is that simple. I do NOT want someone who supports use of marijuana in a position of influence over our children.

One other problem I have with Rep Scannell's position on this matter is his assertion that decriminalizing pot will help young people "get into a rehabilitative system that enables them to become functioning adults." Let me guess, decriminalizing pot will lower the amount of young people that need rehab? That is ridiculous! Come on people, pot is illegal, it's illegal for a very good reason, you don't need pot, and it is NOT in our best interests collectively to do anything that will result in more pot use. This is a no-brainer to me.
- Bryan L., Nashua, NH

Everyday, I ask my self what the heck is going on in Concord. Are they going to vote a name change on our state "New Vermontachusettes". The Mayor is absolutley right on this one. This guy can't talk out both sides of his mouth.
- Bill, Ashland

Statistics show 80% of 15 year-olds who smoke marijuana go on to try cocaine by the age of 18. Lessening the consequences of possessing marijuana is not the answer. Being an educated individual and more importantly, a role model who is directly involved with young people, Mr. Scannell should realize this. Should he lose his job, no. Should he reconsider his position, yes.
- Rick Labell, Newton NH

Scannell was perfectly within his rights to vote his conscience and Guinta's actions are reminiscent of a puritanical fear of reality. As a Centra High graduate, Scannell is an example of someone who made it through the system and if, hypothetically, such an exemplary student smoked a joint , should he have faced a $2,000 fine and jail time and may not be eligible for some forms of college aid? I think not. Wake up, Guinta, look inside your own conscience when trying to "help restore the integrity" and please do not impose hypocritical notions on your public.
- Roberta, Londonderry, NH

As President of the School Board, Mayor Guinta is exactly the person to challenge Scannell's policies and philosophy. Sitting on the Board of 'Makin it Happen' and voting to decriminalize possession of small amounts of marijuana (in our State Legislature) are policies that are in direct conflict with each other.

Listen to what a man says, but watch more what he does. Scannell's vote shows he tolerates drug use, a policy inappropriate for public schools. For this reason, he must go.
- Steve, Manch

You cannot tell me that all of you that are against Mr. Scannell have never experimented with pot. I am sure that even Mayor Guinta has even tried it at some point in his life. I am not for legalizing the stuff, but I do agree that the punishment is too strong as it stands now and I agree with Mr. Scannell's vote. He is simply doing what is best for the kids in the long run. If a child wants to go to college and cant because they got caught with a litte pot in thier younger days, they should not be penalized the rest of their life for it. I think we alreay have enough people on "the system" and we should not be adding to it.
- Dave, Manch

It's one thing for the Mayor to be concerned, but to ask for the reps resignation crosses the line and seems to be political intimidation to me. Scannell needs to stand his ground and not let this amateurish intimidation succeed.
- Tim, Manchester

While Scannell has every right to "fre speech", his supporters forget that so doesn't the Mayor. The Mayor is simply highlighting the FACT that Scanell is a hypocrite, and unsuited for his current position. If you believe that he can vote for decriminalization of drugs while being the public face of the school district's anti-drug policies and messages, then you are probably the same fools that believe that Obama doesn't share in his church's racially-bigoted rhetoric or that Pam Smart wasn't involved in killing her husband. Buy a clue!
- Jim, Manchester

Whether Mayor Guinta or Gov. Lynch approves of it or not, this bill represents the view of of a majority of citizens. Our legislative representatives are suppose to vote in a manner consistant with those of their constituants, not with the personal views of the mayor. Mr. Guinta has no right to tell an elected official how he should vote.
- Cathie, Chester

I was arrsted and charged with a felony for possesion of marijuana. It has hurt my ability to get into school, hurt my ability to get a higher paying job and has done nothing good for anyone. I dont do drugs anymore, It was a youthfull mistake (17 yrs old)that I regretably made. At 25 I am mature, responsible,drug free and college educated but yet I still suffer in many ways for the conviction. I am not a violent person, and now I take prescription medication for what my Docter said I was potentially self medicating for with marijuana. I would just like to thank Mr.Scannell for doing what he believes to be politically correct even at the risk of public criticism. Thats what I call true leadership. Sincerly Wayne Yescalis
- wayne yescalis, manchester

Get Guinta out of here!

A vote to decriminalize is not the same as a vote to legalize.

Hardened criminals or pot smokers- who would have you rather have in jail?
- S., Manchester

Sounds like an attempt at government censor to me. The whole point of this man being in the House is to express the sentiments he was voted in for. The Mayor has no power for any of these actions and is doing it to bolster his own election chances with a pretend "I'm tough on drugs" stance. Please get off your high horse, Manchester has become a dump and Guinta is more worried about one man's vote on a House bill.

I firmly support the bill let NH be on the front edge instead of on the backburner.
- Bob, Sandown

I am proud of Rep. David Scannell having voted the way he did. The message he sends to kids is a good one, one that says our current zero tolerance policy is broken and it's time for a change. Way to go Rep Scannell. Don't let anyone bully you just because they don't agree with you.
- Dan, Manchester

What the hell is the Mayor smoking?
- DM, Manchester

To all the potheads, and others, against the mayor- I hope you have a drug addiction problem in your family as I have experienced so you might understand the magnitude of the illicit drug crisis. Maybe then, after staying up nights wondering if your brother is still alive, you might be a little less cavalier about this issue. I wholeheartedly back the mayor on this one. No one involved with schools should be supporting leaniency towards drugs. Whould it be OK for a teacher to have a quarter bag with her in the classroom? Why not? No big deal right? Give me a break...

Come on people! There is no "middle ground" regarding drug issues. Either we legalize everything or continue to outlaw illegal drugs. The thing is all to often the people that don't care about pot usually are nonchalant about crack, cocaine, heroin, and meth. I hope people notice that pot is a gateway drug. The great majority, if not all, of the people that do hardcore drugs started with pot.
- JSF, Manch

How dare the mayor ask for his resignation because of the way he voted. Stating that his vote is a form of political speech protected by the U.S. Constitution is absolutely correct. Stand you ground Mr.Scannell. You are RIGHT!
- bob ahern, derry

Voting to decriminalize is not the same as voting to legalize. Guinta doesn't make the distinction because he's running for governor and is more than happy to play topeople's fears by ruining Rep. Scannell's career.

Scannell is a Central High grad, Guinta is from New Jersey, but of course the Mayor knows what's best for NH.

This is what happens when you elect a PR flak to elctive office. Please go back to Hoboken and leave us all alone...
- Jack, Franconia

What is the issue? wake up people the guy didn't vote to legalize it he voted to get the penalties more in line with the crime.
- Scott, Manchester

This vote is not necessarily pro-marijuana; to me it's a vote to keep prisons more available for more serious criminals. A kid with a few joints doesn't need to clog up the system. I think the Mayor is more interested in grandstanding here.
- Richard, Hudson

Hey Guinta, why don't you release that letter to the public? I am curious to know why you are so sure that Scannell has irrevocably harmed his ability to lead. Nice move on letting us constituents decide what should happen next.
- Justin, Manchester

Defaulted budget, stressed school system in shambles, taxpayers footing the bills for failed private developments, little police presence, potholes everywhere.... when are Manchester residents going to demand for Mayor Guinta's resignation?
- Chris, allenstown

After reading this article and several others in the past regarding Mayor Guinta and the Manchester School District, I have one thought: What does he have against Manchester schools, school personnel, and education in general? Stick to budget issues and leave education to the professionals!
- CAH, Manchester

Let's face it, no matter how you feel about this issue Frank Guinta wants to run for Governor and wants his name in the paper. If he didn't bring this up how many people would even know how Mr Scannell voted on this matter. Personally I think the Mayor should stay and finish what he said he would do in Manchester before he even thinks of moving on. The whole idea just shows his arrogance, similar to the current President and the last Republican Governor. By the way I'm a rather disgusted registered Republican.
- John S., Manchester

Time for a new Mayor
- John, Manchester

As a public employee, he cannot be punished for his political expression, which amounts to free speech. If the school district fires him simply for his political vote, then the district will be violating his Constitutional rights, and that is not the kind of lesson the school district should be teaching its students.
- Dom, Weare

Is Freedom of speech no longer a constitutional right? What other state rep's will be asked to resign for voting for this bill? This is sick!
Representative Scannell, don't give in and don't give up. Too many people these day's just give up and do nothing. It's time to fight back and never give up on your belief's. Fight for your right's!
- Dot, Nashua

Isn't a violation a crime? Isn't reducing the outlandish penalty/consequences for trivial amounts of pot in fact protective of our children's future?

I graduated from an all male NH Catholic HS in 1975 and UNH in 79. In HS we kept our pot in our suit coat pocket and as youngsters mistakenly thought we were being very cool to do so. Over 90% of us went to college. Guess what? Good, smart productive kids experiment with pot!

The current penalties are like a reverse lottery, if you are unlucky enough to get caught you get your life ruined (unless your family has lots of $$ for lawyers.) Not a lot of sense in it, is there?
- William Haggerty, Nashua

Mayor Guinta, for goodness sakes stop the nonsense! Mr. Scannell's and the three firefighters position on a political matter and an important one to boot, deserve to be heard and brought to vote. Please don't paint these people with your judgement brush as condoning drug use. We're talking "rehabilitation" and helping those young people with intervention rather than labeling them criminals. Have we still not learned anything?
- Dina M. Carr, Manchester NH

A majority of Americans want marijuana decriminalized. This bill passed the House with 58% of those voting supporting it. That Governor Lynch threatens to stand in the way of it is no surprise, as a nanny-stater Democrat who believes he knows better than you do. But Republicans? I seem to remember incessant cries of "Let the people vote!" on the civil unions issue. The will of the people is how our State ought to be governed, right? So how about we let the will of the people shine through on this issue, too?
- Jeremy J. Olson, Manchester, NH

So Frank Guinta, for a couple of cheap political points, decides to go after a state representative, that happens to work for the Manchester School District, but not the other City employees who voted for the same law? Before this vote, Dave Scannell was an ordinary guy doing his job representing his liberal democratic leanings without much fanfare. Now, Mayor Guinta just made Dave Scannell, Manchester's local Jim Morisson. The law states that the possession of marijuana is a felony. Scannell, and others, decided that a small amount of this illegal substance should be dropped to a violation. As an attorney myself, I have seen what prosecutors have to deal with when very small amounts of marijuana are involved in criminal case before them. Almost always, prosecutors, who have much so many important crimes to deal with, lower the crime to a violation, especially for very young persons caught with the illegal substance, especially for a first time offender about to attend college. A felony or a misdemeanor usually means that the young person caught with the illegal substance cannot get a scholarship or financial support from the college they are about to attend. Many prosecutors drop the felony to a violation to make sure these young adults get into college and get the financial help they need to attend. I have personally thanked prosecutors for thier kindness and their obvious desire to make sure that first time offenders who are young adults are not forever burdened by a criminal record for this very young mistake; and for understanding that these young adults need to get into college to make a better life for themselves. (not to say the prosecutors, to teach these young adults a lesson, did not make these young adults perform many many hours of public service by the way) I applaud the vote by Dave Scannell but with a caveat. Dave Scannell should never have allowed himself to be placed in this position in the first place. Because of his position as a representative of the school district and his duty to his constituents and his obvious duty to himself, he should have known that he would have to make tough and somethimes controversial votes. Votes that could affect his position as a representative of children,and the posibility that his votes would have been the subject of much public fodder or politcal retribution. Mr. Scannell should never have allowed himself to become a lightening rod for pot and the obvious message this sends to the very same children he represents in the school district. Mr. Scannell voted his concious, and knowing Mr. Scannell the way I do, he often does. Mr. Scannell is a sincere and dedicated public official. He sincerely cares about his job and what he does as a public servant. He did, without question put his personal convictions above his job at the school district. Guinta saw a political reason to go after Scannell for nothing more or less than political reasons. Guinta, if he wants to be taken serious and thought of as a man of true conviction looks very bad when he attacks a member of the school district but not the firemen or republicans who voted the same way. Will Mayor Guinta ask for republicans and firemen to step down also? Such is the man who asks so much of one but so little of many.
- joe kelly, manchester

My wife and I are people who have worked as parent volunteers for 10 years in the MANSD and have known Mr. Scannell since 2004. As for his record with the District, we believe he is a great representitive in being the district spokesman. We are also involved with Makin It Happen Organization as resident representitives and for Mr. Scannell to vote the way he did, makes us as parents feel uncomfortable. Mr. Scannell has a right to vote as he chooses as Ward 2 Rep. Again though when you are working in two different roles, sometimes you must consider carefully your decision and how it will affect the outcome of each role. Just as it would be to have a police officer being in Mr. Scannell's position in Concord and voting for the bill. It does send a mixed message that can be construed by teens.
- Robert M Tarr, Manchester

Guinta should mind his own business. This has nothing to do with him. He's a political opportunist. There is nothing genuine sounding about this. If he were actually that concerned, it'd be one thing, but he's not.
- Tom S., Manchester

The legislature is out of control and the mayor is right to call Scannell on his support for more lenient drug laws. No one working with the school department should be promoting such a thing, and he should know better than to send the message that just a little more pot is "no big deal," as if making it easier for kids to possess it without consequence is the mindset we should be promoting in Manchester. House members of both parties who supported this ridiculous bill should be at least scolded. But those who claim to speak for kids, yet take these kinds of stands in the House, should be punished.
- Stephen, Manchester

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Sunday, March 23, 2008

Marijuana vote draws fire

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Marijuana vote draws fire

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