Legalization

One of the most controversial topics of conversation in recent years has been the legalization of marijuana in the United States. In my opinion, it is kind of mind-blowing that this is still a question. Since the 1970’s the war on drugs has cost the United States and its taxpayers billions of dollars and has lead to the arrest of thousands. 

Yet according to the CDC, research has proven that alcohol, tobacco, and prescription drugs have a far worse "societal impact" than cannabis. Just look at the opium problems in Chicago, Ohio, etc. With that said, there still needs to be more research done to measure the positive and negative effects it can have medically. The problem is, as long as it is listed as a class A drug, researchers can't get FDC or federal support to conduct their research.

There is also a deeper concern that stems from the war on drugs. This domestic/foreign "policy" has created a huge market for illegal drugs and put enormous amounts of money in the pockets of criminal organizations. When looking at crime (homicides in particular) statistics in Mexico starting in the 1950s, it is evident that this is still a relevant issue. That is why I call it a foreign policy as well as a domestic policy. It has had incredibly detrimental side effects in South American countries like Colombia, Mexico, Bolivia, and Brazil.

The most prominent reason to legalize is the taxing benefit that would transpire. The government needs to realize at some point that legal or not, people are still smoking weed on a daily basis. Instead of fighting this strenuous battle, they should instead take advantage of the issue that will lead to buoyant tax revenues. In addition to this economic benefit, the industry for marijuana will lead to thousands of job opportunities, much like it has in the legal states such as California and Nevada. 

Cited Sources:

Krishna, Mrinalini. “The Economic Benefits of Legalizing Weed.” Investopedia, Investopedia, 18 Nov. 2019, https://www.investopedia.com/articles/insights/110916/economic-benefits-legalizing-weed.asp.

Commentary on Colleague's Editorial

I really enjoyed your take on today’s efficiency of our government. You made some very valid points while clearly stating your thesis. By touching on the advances that the country has made over the past centuries, you can easily convey the point that we are still not where we need to be.

The counterargument you made was also very helpful in indicating that the hype over the “groundbreaking” things that Trump has done is just that: overhyped. As you stated that many presidents in the past have made similar moves support the argument that we must not compare ourselves to other countries, but instead we should focus on uniting our country.

Well done in using an efficient structure for the editorial and restating your thesis in your closing paragraph. Overall, the commentary did a good job of conveying your argument and keeping the reader’s attention.

Editorial Link: https://chuk2143.blogspot.com/2019/11/something-different.html

Every woman, beginning from their early teenage years, faces the inconvenience of having their menstrual cycle once a month. With this comes the necessity of buying feminine products on a regular basis. According to USA TODAY, the average woman spends $150- $300 a year on feminine products. In recent years, the issue regarding the “tampon tax” has been brought to attention with people arguing for the reform of taxes put on feminine products that are deemed necessary.

I believe that taxes put on feminine products should be exempt for all women. Some may argue that the tax exemption should only be offered to those with Medicaid or food stamps, however seeing as the average cost per year is exceptionally high and only women are faced with the inconvenience, I strongly disagree. A recent survey conducted in a populated U.S. city found that almost two thirds of low income women struggle to afford feminine products needed each month. Seeing as the majority of those in office who deal with revenue are men, it is difficult for them to see the perspective of a woman on this issue, therefore making it an important task to bring attention to the matter.