What a disappointing move by the Legislature to delay the implementation of Question 4, which passed overwhelmingly in November (“Lawmakers vote to delay marijuana sales,’’ Page A1, Dec. 29). The measure, which Governor Baker signed into law on Friday, was rushed through the end-of-the-year docket without a public hearing, in the name of public safety. But currently, marijuana is in a legal gray area, where it is legal yet not sold in stores, forcing people who want to consume this newly legal product to seek out street dealers.

Street dealers are unregulated, don’t check IDs, are not taxed, and may be involved in the sale of other illegal drugs. How is keeping these street dealers in business for another six months going to help public safety?

State Treasurer Deborah Goldberg should be appointing the members of the Cannabis Control Commission, who can begin crafting guidelines and safety regulations for the new industry, not continuing to oppose something that is already law.

By passing this bill in an informal session without a roll call, the Legislature has shown that it is determined to subvert the will of the voters, at the cost of public safety, and by signing it, the governor has followed suit.

Daniel Foley

Worcester