An increasing number of states are decriminalizing the use of marijuana, both medically and recreationally. Recently, Canada became only the second country in the world – following Uruguay – to implement legislation to create a nationwide marijuana market. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau cited a desire to keep marijuana away from teens and reduce drug-related crime as key reasons for this decision. In the U.S., nine states and the District of Columbia allow for recreational marijuana use, and 30 allow for medical use.
For every argument in favor of decriminalization, there’s one against. One of the arguments against making marijuana legal is that it is still an addictive drug, which can be dangerous if misused. However, there are strict rules in place regarding its distribution and use, particularly when it comes to minors.
On the “pro” side, legalization provides a boost to the economy. The marijuana industry creates jobs for growers and distributors, and this can lead to a boom in areas such as construction, transportation, and tourism as people travel to states where they can purchase it. The flip side to this is the potential increase in costs of emergency room visits, addiction treatment, and crime that might result from misuse.
Another theoretical positive is that setting the legal age of use at 18 will keep teens from trying it while they are still minors. On the other hand, anyone who has ever been to college knows that just because alcohol is legal at 21, that doesn’t stop younger people from obtaining and drinking it.
There have been studies that show that the number of traffic fatalities related to marijuana use did not change significantly after legalization. However, just as many studies completely contradict these numbers, and it’s a proven fact that cannabis can impact reaction times and logical thinking. Also, there is no set level of THC to determine whether you’re over or under the limit, like with blood alcohol. Determining the level of impairment can be difficult, particularly as THC can stay in the bloodstream for weeks.
Legalizing marijuana across the country could save a lot of money and effort, from the cost of incarceration to the time taken away from judicial and law enforcement officers. On the other hand, some argue that it’s worthwhile to prosecute users because marijuana presents a real public health risk. Not only does smoking damage lung tissues and cause respiratory problems in the user, but secondhand marijuana smoke is also dangerous.
Here in the U.S., Congress is supposed to represent the will of the people. A Gallup poll in 2016 and a CBS News poll in 2017 found that 60 percent and 61 percent, respectively, of responders, support legal marijuana. A separate poll from Quinnipiac University found support for legalizing medical cannabis at 94 percent. If our laws are indeed meant to reflect our will, then it seems only logical that marijuana is decriminalized.
No matter what side of the debate you fall on, if you find yourself struggling with an addiction to marijuana or any other substance, contact Asana Recovery. We offer medical detox as well as residential and outpatient therapy to provide you the best care possible. Call us at (949)438-4504 to find out how we can help.
