Legalization of Marijuana Case

One of the most controversial topics in today’s society is the legalization of marijuana. There are a lot of different opinions on the topic and a split amongst people between whether or not it should be legalized or not. Both sides provide valid arguments supporting their views. There have been many discussions for and against legalization. Many people trust that marijuana should be legalized for a couple of reasons. If marijuana was legalized it would generate a much needed tax revenue boost, allow for a wider access for medical use, and it will make for a more effective law enforcement and criminal justice system.

If marijuana is someday legalized, it could be taxed by the state and federal government, like alcohol and cigarettes are taxed. One analysis by a financial expert (Lyman) estimates that the U.S. spends $7 billion a year on imposing the ban on marijuana. It also demonstrates how the top economists have confidence that, by legalizing and regulating the plant, not only would that money be saved, but taxing it would pull in at least $6 billion more per year. Further, it shows how, at a minimum, legal marijuana would push $14 million into the economy every year. If all marijuana were taxed, the federal government would save millions of dollars on searching for marijuana; it would also make billions of dollars off the sale of marijuana.

There are many medical uses for marijuana that can effectively treat many conditions. Marijuana can be used to treat different medical conditions including epilepsy, posttraumatic stress disorder, and multiple sclerosis (Truthonpot.com). It is also believed that the THC in marijuana can help to relieve pain, control nausea, and vomiting. Researchers also report that THC can help reduce the severity of glaucoma. Supporters claim that marijuana can also ease asthma attacks, seizures, and muscle spasms (Truthonpot.com). These are just a few of the uses that medical marijuana could help treat people. In some states, including Arizona, medical marijuana is now legal under certain procedures. This allows the public to use it for its medical reasons.

If marijuana were to become legal, it would cut off a money supply for drug dealers. Supporters of it becoming legal say that by making the drug less lucrative and sought after by criminals and drug dealers, it will lower the violence caused by the illegal drug. The results will help save innocent people’s lives and remove stress from local police. Also by decriminalizing marijuana, it will save time and money for the local police and federal government, approximately $8 billion each year (Lyman). Many say it will free up room in the crowded prisons. It would also permit prosecutors to focus more on violent crimes.

Several questions and objections to legalizing marijuana raise important issues that need to be addressed. First, as far as the revenue goes would legalization of marijuana cause a false economy? Many experts