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.