Today’s L.A. Times letters to the editor, because our voices matter:

Go play, not go get a Lap-Band

Re “Lap-Band maker targets teenagers,” May 24

The whole idea of consumer commercials for prescriptions is idiotic, especially if they have potentially dangerous outcomes. Medical decisions including prescriptions are best shared between a doctor and patient, not hocked on the airwaves.

Drug commercials really took off only recently. Ever wonder why our prescription drugs are so expensive?

I believe the letter writer meant “hawked”, and I agree. The Tee Vee Machine has become the drug dealer of choice for many consumers. As a result, prices have skyrocketed and Big Pharma is grinning ear to ear.

Next….

Legalize pot

Re “A prison system we deserve,” Opinion, May 25

If we were to regulate and tax marijuana like we do wine and vacate the prison sentences of those imprisoned for marijuana violations, the prison population would decline and there would be no significant uptick in crime.

Additionally, jobs would be created, millions in taxes would flow into state and local treasuries, law enforcement resources would be liberated and pot would be a great deal more difficult for our children to get their hands on.

Why is this not even being discussed by California politicians?

The writer is a former deputy chief of the Los Angeles Police Department.