Is Chicago proposal elevating the debate?

I expressed some misgivings regarding the proposal in Chicago to switch to fines for marijuana possession. It’s in the Tribune again today (an interesting article) and reader Brian suggests:

Consider the number of new articles about what a waste of resources it is to prosecute pot charges let alone trying to enforce them. I wonder if they are trying to create some forced recognition of the issue as it exists today. I agree with you that tickets are not perfect, but it is a step in the right direction. I think the biggest issue here is that the topic is being debated at all and the fact that the it is in front of all people.

Excellent point.