LEGALIZATION OF MARIJUANA

The legalization of marijuana has been a major issue of debate since it’s prohibition in 1937. Of course, even just the decriminalization could have both positive and negative effects. The number of American citizens that believe marijuana should be legalized and/or decriminalized for industrial, recreational, and medical use is increasing steadily. Many other countries are also considering legalizations, or have already amended their laws to do so. When the pros and cons are weighed out, the prohibition of marijuana causes far greater harm than the responsible use of the substance itself.
Decriminalization of marijuana would not mean allowing drug dealers to continue dealing out on the streets or allowing children to use the drug. Instead, marijuana would be treated as a regulated substance like alcohol. Smokers, who are otherwise law-abiding citizens, would not be arrested and convicted of crimes. Consumers would be able to buy marijuana safely and legally, cutting the “bl...