Sunday, December 7, 2014

Legalizing Marijuana - A Change in the "War on Drugs"


Marijuana, also known as cannabis, hemp, pot, and weed, has been used by humanity for thousands of years. It was most commonly used for making materials such as clothing, paper, and rope. Every part of the marijuana plant can be used, from the seeds to the fibers. Even the oils from the plant can be used in various products. Marijuana is believed to provide medical benefits for cancer and AIDS patients, as well as controlling nausea or vomiting.  Some forms of marijuana include: hemp, hashish, hash oil, and hemp fibers. There are many different strains of marijuana, and female marijuana plants tend to be the most potent. The most common and potent are Purple Haze, Hindu Kush, Early Girl, and Big Bud. Marijuana is a lot stronger now than it used to be due to purposefully breeding stronger and more intoxicating strains.
The biggest problem with legalizing marijuana is the debate over its benefits. Currently, marijuana is classified as a Schedule 1 drug, meaning it has no accepted medical benefit and it has a high possibility for abuse. This is the most dangerous drug schedule, and other drugs in this category include heroin, LSD, and ecstasy. Despite the government’s labeling of the drug, however, many believe that marijuana does not meet the criteria under the Controlled Substances Act to be a Schedule 1 drug, as there are potential medical benefits and the drug is not as toxic as other Schedule 1 drugs. The most dangerous chemical in marijuana is THC, which can affect brain development, learning, memory, and perception. The biggest health concern for marijuana is its effects on the mental health and development of users. It is also addictive, contrary to common belief, and can cause many of the same respiratory problems as smoking cigarettes.
Despite the potential health hazards that come with the recreational use of marijuana, majority opinion seems to be shifting. Many people support the legalization of marijuana because of the various economic and legal benefits. Colorado has already seen significant revenue increase since legalizing marijuana in September 2013. Taxes placed on the businesses, suppliers, and even the product itself have generated millions of dollars in state revenue. The new source of revenue for states who have legalized marijuana can help fund everything from healthcare to schools. Many supporters of legalizing the drug point out the enormous economic benefit for our country.
Another big argument in support of legalizing marijuana is the effect it will have on the “War on Drugs.” Currently, Mexican drug cartels are the biggest suppliers of illegal marijuana to the U.S., and they gain incredible profits from charging Americans for the illegal product. Many believe that legalizing marijuana in the U.S. will damage the cartels, lower their profits, and decrease drug violence in Mexico. On top of that, the decriminalization of marijuana possession, growth, and use will remove a drastic number of people from jail and give law enforcement more time and money to devote to controlling more violent crimes.
While many argue that marijuana is a “gateway drug” and that the health problems are worse than the benefits, most supporters argue that legalization will give the government more control over the trade and use of marijuana. Currently, marijuana use and trade is almost completely unregulated due to its criminalization, so this renders it even more dangerous to users. If the government is able to regulate marijuana, they can potentially reduce or remove some of the harmful effects of the drug. For example, the government may put out regulations for the potency of marijuana, how much of more potent drugs can be sold, and what additives can be in the drugs. Overall the benefits of legalizing marijuana seem to outweigh the negatives.

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