Yes I know this is a controversial issue, especially in a state like Texas, but the legalization of marijuana is inevitable. I'm not talking about the near future, but the fact is support for legalization is high among young people who will be a large chunk of voters in twenty to thirty years.
When considering this type of legislation, one must take into account the pros and cons. The first, most important pro, is the fact that the government could make considerable profits by growing, selling, and taxing marijuana. In a state and nation grappling with budget shortfalls any type of revenue generator should be considered. We've already applied sin taxes to strip club patrons and tobacco users, the same principles are at play in this case.
Secondly, think about the amount of time and resources wasted in our pursuit of marijuana users. It's mind-boggling that someones personal use of a drug less dangerous than alcohol occupies so much of our police force and courts time. Some of the sentences against users of this drug are insane and downright criminal. In my opinion, users should be spared the brunt of the law. If legalized, the city does have the incentive to locate and bust dealers of large quantities to impose fines to recoup some losses. The prosecution of marijuana offenses would be solely directed towards those trying to make a profit off the trade.
A common complaint against the legalization of marijuana is the idea that it will make it more readily available to minors. If you've been around a high school or even a middle school lately, you'd realize that it's easy to obtain, legal or not. The idea that keeping something illegal deters its use, is outdated and clearly lacks evidence.
Another argument against legalization involves public safety, specifically drivers under the influence. The fact is alcohol kills many more people than marijuana ever will and there will be strict laws against driving under the influence. Because there's not accurate test to determine the amount of THC in a person's body, there will be zero tolerance with driving under the influence of marijuana. A road side test needs to be developed to gauge the reaction time of one accused of DUI.
With full legalization, and a few guidelines, such as the driving ban of people under the influence, the state and the nation can save money, generate revenue, and increase the morale of their citizens by allowing more person liberty.
I aggree with about 80% of this post. A few thoughts to your first point are that if the government is taxing it won't it be more expensive? If a certain quantity may cost let's say 50 dollars for an eighth and because of the tax I might have to be 65 or even 70% I think I would stick with the independent seller. Not only that but if the government has anything to do with it wouldn't it be processed similar to tobacco so it might have a bunch of garbaged added into it?
ReplyDeleteThe next thought is towards the criminal portion of your argument. They may waste alot of time on pursuit and court cases for marijuana but it brings me to the question of , "How much revenue is the state bringing in for ticketing marijuana?". I'm sure it's quite a bit but all and all I aggree it should be legalized.
Unfortunately my post exceeded the limit of characters you can possibly have. If you want to read what I wrote regarding your editorial, feel free to check it out on my page.
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