I got in a longggg debate with someone on here about the legalization of marijuana a while back (i support legalization, or even decriminalization)
I can tell you, it never ends. It's just like debating about religion. Regardless of facts, you can't convince each other that the other is right.
That being said, I'll throw in my two cents anyway
-We spend billions of dollars every year arresting and prosecuting people for victimless marijuana-related crimes. Couldn't this money be put to something useful?
-To add to the above point, we could actually
make billions by controlling and taxing marijuana
-By legalizing and controlling it, we would make it harder for kids to get. With controlled substances, you eliminate a need for "dealers" who sell to underage users as well as introduce them to harder drugs.
-Some people use marijuana strictly to help with anxiety, arthritis, nausea, and other ailments. In some states this is legal, but most have to fear criminal prosecution for using their medicine.
-Recreational use: there is NO reason we shouldn't be able to sit on our couch after work and smoke a joint. It doesn't hurt anyone and it's MUCH less harmful than alcohol.
-Not only is it NOT a violent substance, it actually
prevents violence. It calms the user, and most will avoid physical altercations when using marijuana.
-It was never
legitimately made illegal. Research how it came to be illegal. The surgeon general at the time gave a report on marijuana stating it had many medicinal uses and did not have long term side effects. He was ignored and it was made illegal anyway, for the financial and political gain of some rich white guys. (seems to happen a lot in government, doesn't it?)
Let's look at some interesting facts:
-Marijuana has been illegal
less than 1% of the time it's been in use.
-There have been no deaths specifically attributed to the over-use of marijuana. (yes, wrecks, etc. may be attributed, but you could say the same for lack of sleep or cough syrup)
-People who use marijuana are
less likely to commit a violent crime.
-The first law concerning marijuana in America was a law that required farmers to grow hemp in 1619
-The law classifies marijuana as a class 1 drug (paired with PCP, Meth, Peyote, Heroin, Mescaline, and a
larger offense than cocaine, opium, or oxycodone). It is classified as having a high potential for abuse and having NO medical uses.