pros and cons of legalizing weed essay

• Program Finder
• Admissions Services
• Course Directory
• Academic Calendar
• Hybrid Campus
• Lecture Series
• Convocation
• Strategy and Development
• Implementation and Impact
• Integrity and Oversight
• In the School
• In the Field
• In Baltimore
• Resources for Practitioners
• Articles & News Releases
• In The News
• Statements & Announcements
• At a Glance
• Student Life
• Strategic Priorities
• Inclusion, Diversity, Anti-Racism, and Equity (IDARE)
• What is Public Health?

The Evidence—and Lack Thereof—About Cannabis

Research is still needed on cannabis’s risks and benefits. 

Lindsay Smith Rogers

Although the use and possession of cannabis is illegal under federal law, medicinal and recreational cannabis use has become increasingly widespread.

Thirty-eight states and Washington, D.C., have legalized medical cannabis, while 23 states and D.C. have legalized recreational use. Cannabis legalization has benefits, such as removing the product from the illegal market so it can be taxed and regulated, but science is still trying to catch up as social norms evolve and different products become available. 

In this Q&A, adapted from the August 25 episode of Public Health On Call , Lindsay Smith Rogers talks with Johannes Thrul, PhD, MS , associate professor of Mental Health , about cannabis as medicine, potential risks involved with its use, and what research is showing about its safety and efficacy. 

Do you think medicinal cannabis paved the way for legalization of recreational use?

The momentum has been clear for a few years now. California was the first to legalize it for medical reasons [in 1996]. Washington and Colorado were the first states to legalize recreational use back in 2012. You see one state after another changing their laws, and over time, you see a change in social norms. It's clear from the national surveys that people are becoming more and more in favor of cannabis legalization. That started with medical use, and has now continued into recreational use.

But there is a murky differentiation between medical and recreational cannabis. I think a lot of people are using cannabis to self-medicate. It's not like a medication you get prescribed for a very narrow symptom or a specific disease. Anyone with a medical cannabis prescription, or who meets the age limit for recreational cannabis, can purchase it. Then what they use it for is really all over the place—maybe because it makes them feel good, or because it helps them deal with certain symptoms, diseases, and disorders.

Does cannabis have viable medicinal uses?

The evidence is mixed at this point. There hasn’t been a lot of funding going into testing cannabis in a rigorous way. There is more evidence for certain indications than for others, like CBD for seizures—one of the first indications that cannabis was approved for. And THC has been used effectively for things like nausea and appetite for people with cancer.

There are other indications where the evidence is a lot more mixed. For example, pain—one of the main reasons that people report for using cannabis. When we talk to patients, they say cannabis improved their quality of life. In the big studies that have been done so far, there are some indications from animal models that cannabis might help [with pain]. When we look at human studies, it's very much a mixed bag. 

And, when we say cannabis, in a way it's a misnomer because cannabis is so many things. We have different cannabinoids and different concentrations of different cannabinoids. The main cannabinoids that are being studied are THC and CBD, but there are dozens of other minor cannabinoids and terpenes in cannabis products, all of varying concentrations. And then you also have a lot of different routes of administration available. You can smoke, vape, take edibles, use tinctures and topicals. When you think about the explosion of all of the different combinations of different products and different routes of administration, it tells you how complicated it gets to study this in a rigorous way. You almost need a randomized trial for every single one of those and then for every single indication.

What do we know about the risks of marijuana use?  

Cannabis use disorder is a legitimate disorder in the DSM. There are, unfortunately, a lot of people who develop a problematic use of cannabis. We know there are risks for mental health consequences. The evidence is probably the strongest that if you have a family history of psychosis or schizophrenia, using cannabis early in adolescence is not the best idea. We know cannabis can trigger psychotic symptoms and potentially longer lasting problems with psychosis and schizophrenia. 

It is hard to study, because you also don't know if people are medicating early negative symptoms of schizophrenia. They wouldn't necessarily have a diagnosis yet, but maybe cannabis helps them to deal with negative symptoms, and then they develop psychosis. There is also some evidence that there could be something going on with the impact of cannabis on the developing brain that could prime you to be at greater risk of using other substances later down the road, or finding the use of other substances more reinforcing. 

What benefits do you see to legalization?

When we look at the public health landscape and the effect of legislation, in this case legalization, one of the big benefits is taking cannabis out of the underground illegal market. Taking cannabis out of that particular space is a great idea. You're taking it out of the illegal market and giving it to legitimate businesses where there is going to be oversight and testing of products, so you know what you're getting. And these products undergo quality control and are labeled. Those labels so far are a bit variable, but at least we're getting there. If you're picking up cannabis at the street corner, you have no idea what's in it. 

And we know that drug laws in general have been used to criminalize communities of color and minorities. Legalizing cannabis [can help] reduce the overpolicing of these populations.

What big questions about cannabis would you most like to see answered?

We know there are certain, most-often-mentioned conditions that people are already using medical cannabis for: pain, insomnia, anxiety, and PTSD. We really need to improve the evidence base for those. I think clinical trials for different cannabis products for those conditions are warranted.

Another question is, now that the states are getting more tax revenue from cannabis sales, what are they doing with that money? If you look at tobacco legislation, for example, certain states have required that those funds get used for research on those particular issues. To me, that would be a very good use of the tax revenue that is now coming in. We know, for example, that there’s a lot more tax revenue now that Maryland has legalized recreational use. Maryland could really step up here and help provide some of that evidence.

Are there studies looking into the risks you mentioned?

Large national studies are done every year or every other year to collect data, so we already have a pretty good sense of the prevalence of cannabis use disorder. Obviously, we'll keep tracking that to see if those numbers increase, for example, in states that are legalizing. But, you wouldn't necessarily expect to see an uptick in cannabis use disorder a month after legalization. The evidence from states that have legalized it has not demonstrated that we might all of a sudden see an increase in psychosis or in cannabis use disorder. This happens slowly over time with a change in social norms and availability, and potentially also with a change in marketing. And, with increasing use of an addictive substance, you will see over time a potential increase in problematic use and then also an increase in use disorder.

If you're interested in seeing if cannabis is right for you, is this something you can talk to your doctor about?

I think your mileage may vary there with how much your doctor is comfortable and knows about it. It's still relatively fringe. That will very much depend on who you talk to. But I think as providers and professionals, everybody needs to learn more about this, because patients are going to ask no matter what.

Lindsay Smith Rogers, MA, is the producer of the Public Health On Call podcast , an editor for Expert Insights , and the director of content strategy for the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health.

Could Medical Marijuana Help Address the Opioid Epidemic?

Policy Is Public Health

Medical Marijuana Laws Linked to Health and Labor Supply Benefits in Older Adults

Related Content

Alumni Spotlight: Junrui Di, PhD '19

Child Diarrhea Has a Cheap and Easy Fix—Why Isn’t It Reaching Patients?

How Abortion Trigger Laws Impact Mental Health

Bridging the Surgical Gap for Rural Indigenous Communities

Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health Wins 8 Anthem Awards

Legalizing Marijuana: Pros and Cons Essay

The history of marijuana criminalization and legalization, works cited.

Marijuana is known as one of the most popular and widespread drugs in the world. Historical records suggest that cannabis was used in prehistoric societies for religious ceremonies, as well as for meditation and relaxation. Nowadays, most governments prohibit the recreational use of marijuana; however, in most states of the U. S., it is legal to use cannabis for medical purposes and in some of the states – for recreational ones. The focus of this paper will be on the impact of the legalization of the U.S. economy with possible positive and negative sides of the matter.

Marijuana was outlawed in the USA in the 1930s when the Marijuana Tax Act was issued. After the law was issued, several states decriminalized possession in small amounts, and some of them legalized medicinal marijuana. In 2009, as it appeared in a poll conducted by the authorities, the citizens were concerned about the strict drug laws, and several new policies, including, for instance, the Ogden memo, have been adopted ever since (Zambiasi and Stillman 2). The first states that legalized recreational marijuana were Washington and Colorado in 2012 (Zambiasi and Stillman 1-2), and currently, it is legal in nine states and the District of Columbia.

Pros and Cons of Legalization

Marijuana legalization may lead to substantial profits for the government. However, new profits often come with additional expenditures. There are positive as well as negative sides of the legalization, regarding the economy. First, marijuana legalization significantly reduces black market production and distribution, allowing businesses to operate legally, leading to a less burdened judicial system. The government will potentially need fewer detention facilities and forces, thus spending less money. According to Saaty, “of the $48.7 billion spent by states and the federal government in 2008, $13.8 billion was strictly used for marijuana enforcement” (1).

Since legalization brings down the costs of production and distribution, the government can impose a tax on marijuana, generating additional revenue. However, establishing a universal way to tax marijuana may be challenging; Colorado and Washington already tax marijuana based on its value, while other states plan to take the weight as a point of reference (Kilmer, “The “10 Ps” of Marijuana Legalization” 56). Moreover, if the tax is too high, it may stimulate the black market.

Marijuana legalization naturally increases its use with all its health risks, entailing significant healthcare expenditures. The government will be forced to establish new testing programs, awareness messaging, and control institutions. According to Kilmer, “from mid-2012 through Fall 2014, the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board spent about $9 million to develop the proposed regulations” ( Marijuana Legalization 5). In addition to tourists, drug legalization also attracts migrants. As of 2015, for instance, the number of citizens in Colorado had increased by roughly 3% since marijuana was legalized for recreational use (Zambiasi and Stillman 10). Such population growth, if uncontrolled, inevitably leads to a shortage of job positions, housing, etc.

At the beginning of 2018, federal authorities rescinded the Cole Memorandum that weakened strict prohibition enforcement in states where marijuana was legal. Although this may potentially help regulate the market, the local laws still differentiate from state to state, ruining the overall macroeconomic balance. Considering that, it might be beneficial for the government to enforce similar laws throughout the country to control the market more effectively.

In conclusion, marijuana legalization has its pros and cons that can greatly affect the economy. It may entail not only financial profits but also losses on federal and local levels. It appears that a uniform drug policy throughout the nation might be a solution to some of the problems. It is crucial for the government to find the middle ground in laws and regulations regarding the matter to counterbalance the financial problems.

Kilmer, Beau. Marijuana Legalization, Government Revenues, and Public Budgets . RAND Corporation, 2016.

—. “The “10 Ps” of Marijuana Legalization.” Ideas , vol. 54, 2015, pp. 52–57.

Saaty, Thomas L. “A Marijuana Legalization Model Using Benefits, Opportunities, Costs, and Risks (BOCR) Analysis.” International Journal of Strategic Decision Sciences (IJSDS), vol. 6, no. 2, 2015, pp. 1–11.

Zambiasi, Diego, and Steven Stillman. “The Pot Rush: Is Legalized Marijuana a Positive Local Amenity?” The IZA Institute of Labor Economics Papers, vol. 1, 2018, pp. 1–24.

• Chicago (A-D)
• Chicago (N-B)

IvyPanda. (2023, December 29). Legalizing Marijuana: Pros and Cons. https://ivypanda.com/essays/legalizing-marijuana-pros-and-cons/

"Legalizing Marijuana: Pros and Cons." IvyPanda , 29 Dec. 2023, ivypanda.com/essays/legalizing-marijuana-pros-and-cons/.

IvyPanda . (2023) 'Legalizing Marijuana: Pros and Cons'. 29 December.

IvyPanda . 2023. "Legalizing Marijuana: Pros and Cons." December 29, 2023. https://ivypanda.com/essays/legalizing-marijuana-pros-and-cons/.

1. IvyPanda . "Legalizing Marijuana: Pros and Cons." December 29, 2023. https://ivypanda.com/essays/legalizing-marijuana-pros-and-cons/.

Bibliography

IvyPanda . "Legalizing Marijuana: Pros and Cons." December 29, 2023. https://ivypanda.com/essays/legalizing-marijuana-pros-and-cons/.

• Legalization vs. Criminalization
• Why Is Marijuana Legalized In Some States And Not Others?
• Does Legalizing Marijuana Help or Harm the United States?
• Argument About Legalizing Marijuana in America
• Legalization of Cannabis in the State of New Jersey
• Why Marijuana Should Be Legalized?
• Marijuana Legalization in Illinois
• A Case for Legalizing Marijuana
• Medical Marijuana: Pros of Legalizing
• Discussion of the Issue of Criminalization
• The US and Britain Role in the Middle East Conflict
• The Fight Against Human Trafficking
• Iran and Its Pursuit of Nuclear Weapons: Is War Imminent?
• Political Sciences: Countries Development Models

• Type 2 Diabetes
• Heart Disease
• Digestive Health
• Multiple Sclerosis
• COVID-19 Vaccines
• Occupational Therapy
• Healthy Aging
• Health Insurance
• Public Health
• Patient Rights
• Caregivers & Loved Ones
• End of Life Concerns
• Health News
• Thyroid Test Analyzer
• Doctor Discussion Guides
• Hemoglobin A1c Test Analyzer
• Lipid Test Analyzer
• Complete Blood Count (CBC) Analyzer
• What to Buy
• Editorial Process
• Meet Our Medical Expert Board

Pros and Cons of Legalizing Marijuana

The pros of legalizing marijuana, the cons of legalizing marijuana.

• Scientific Evidence

The pros and cons of legalizing marijuana are still being debated. Today, 37 U.S. states allow for the medical use of marijuana. A growing number allow recreational use.

However, as a Schedule I controlled substance, marijuana is illegal under federal law. This Drug Enforcement Administration designation means that marijuana is considered to have "no currently accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse." It also limits medical studies into the potential benefits of cannabis .

This article explains the pros and cons of legalizing marijuana, as some have argued them.

Americans overwhelmingly support the legalization of marijuana. In fact, according to the Pew Research Center, 88% of Americans support legalizing marijuana. Of those, 59% say it should be legal for medical and recreational use and 30% say it should be legal for medical reasons only.

Several possible health benefits of medical marijuana have been proposed:

• Nausea : Marijuana is effective in relieving nausea and vomiting. Studies have shown that cannabis can decrease nausea caused by chemotherapy and almost eliminate vomiting.
• Spasticity : Marijuana can relieve pain and spasticity associated with multiple sclerosis.
• Appetite : Marijuana can help treat appetite loss associated with conditions like  HIV/AIDS and certain types of cancers.
• Chronic pain : Marijuana can relieve certain types of chronic pain, including neuropathic pain, which is caused by nerve damage.

And arguments in favor of using medical marijuana include:

• It's safer : Marijuana is safer than some other medications prescribed to treat pain. For example, some people may use it instead of opioids for pain management. Opioids are highly addictive and are typically not recommended for long-term use in treating chronic pain.
• You can use it in many ways : You do not need to smoke cannabis for its benefits. Products such as cannabidiol oil (CBD), topical pain relief treatments, edibles, and other non-smoking applications are now available.
• You don't need to get high : As studies continue, researchers are finding benefits in the individual compounds in cannabis. When these chemicals are isolated—such as CBD has been—they can offer treatment options without the "high" produced by the compound commonly known as THC.
• It's natural : People have used marijuana for centuries as a natural medicinal agent with good results.

Recreational Marijuana

Marijuana is legal for recreational use in 20 states and the District of Columbia. In 20 other states, marijuana has been decriminalized. This means there are no criminal penalties in these states for minor marijuana-related offenses like possession of small amounts or cultivation for personal use.

Those who oppose the legalization of marijuana point to the health risks of the drug, including:

• Memory issues : Frequent marijuana use may seriously affect your short-term memory.
• Cognition problems : Frequent use can impair your cognitive (thinking) abilities.
• Lung damage : Smoking anything, whether it's tobacco or marijuana, can damage your lung tissue. In addition, smoking marijuana could increase the risk of lung cancer .
• Abuse : Marijuana carries a risk of abuse and addiction.
• Accidents : Marijuana use impairs driving skills and increases the risk for car collisions.

The fact that the federal government groups it in the same category as drugs like heroin, LSD, and ecstasy is reason enough to keep it illegal, some say. As Schedule I drugs are defined by having no accepted value, legalization could give users the wrong impression about where research on the drug stands.

Scientific Evidence Remains Limited

In the past, clinical trials to to determine if marijuana is effective in treating certain conditions have been restrictive and limited. However, as medical marijuana becomes more common throughout the world, researchers are doing more studies.

Expert reviews of current research continue to say more studies are needed. In addition, many hurdles involve controlling the quality and dosing of cannabis with what is legally available to researchers.

One review of research noted that the long-term effects of cannabis are still unknown. Without more research into dosage and adverse effects, scientific evidence of risks and therapeutic effects remains soft.

Researchers need to evaluate marijuana using the same standards as other medications to understand whether it is valuable for managing any conditions.

Until the federal government downgrades marijuana from a Schedule I drug, widespread clinical trials are unlikely to happen in the United States.

Medical marijuana is increasingly available in the U.S. It is often used to treat chronic pain, muscle spasms, and nausea and vomiting, and to increase appetite. However, it can affect thinking and memory, increase the risk of accidents, and smoking it may harm the lungs and lead to cancer.

More studies are needed to understand the benefits of medical marijuana. However, unless the federal government removes it as a Schedule I controlled substance, research, access, and legality will remain complicated.

A Word From Verywell

There are both benefits and risks to medical marijuana. If you're considering using marijuana medicinally, don't be afraid to talk to your doctor about it. They can help you determine whether marijuana may be the proper treatment for you.

Medical marijuana remains controversial, but it is gaining traction as a legitimate recommendation for various symptoms. Even though many states have legalized cannabis for medicinal purposes and recreational use, more research is needed.

National Conference of State Legislatures. State medical marijuana laws .

United States Drug Enforcement Administration. Drug scheduling .

Pew Research Center. Americans overwhelmingly say marijuana should be legal for recreational or medical use .

Badowski ME. A review of oral cannabinoids and medical marijuana for the treatment of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting: a focus on pharmacokinetic variability and pharmacodynamics . Cancer Chemother Pharmacol. 2017;80(3):441-449. doi:10.1007/s00280-017-3387-5

Corey-Bloom J, Wolfson T, Gamst A, et al. Smoked cannabis for spasticity in multiple sclerosis: a randomized, placebo-controlled trial .  CMAJ . 2012;184(10):1143-1150. doi:10.1503/cmaj.110837

American Cancer Society. Marijuana and Cancer .

Hill KP. Medical marijuana for treatment of chronic pain and other medical and psychiatric problems: A clinical review . JAMA. 2015;313(24):2474-83. doi:10.1001/jama.2015.6199

Choo EK, Feldstein Ewing SW, Lovejoy TI. Opioids out, cannabis in: Negotiating the unknowns in patient care for chronic pain . JAMA . 2016;316(17):1763-1764. doi:10.1001/jama.2016.13677

Corroon J, Sexton M, Bradley R. Indications and administration practices amongst medical cannabis healthcare providers: a cross-sectional survey . BMC Fam Pract. 2019;20(1):174. doi:10.1186/s12875-019-1059-8

Morales P, Reggio PH, Jagerovic N. An overview on medicinal chemistry of synthetic and natural derivatives of cannabidiol . Front Pharmacol . 2017;8:422. doi:10.3389/fphar.2017.00422

The Council of State Governments. State approaches to marijuana policy .

Harvard Health Publishing, Harvard Medical School. The Effects of Marijuana on your Memory .

Ghasemiesfe M, Barrow B, Leonard S, Keyhani S, Korenstein D. Association between marijuana use and risk of cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis . JAMA Netw Open. 2019;2(11):e1916318. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2019.16318

Preuss U, Huestis M, Schneider M et al. Cannabis use and car crashes: A review . Front Psychiatry . 2021;12. doi:10.3389/fpsyt.2021.643315

Deshpande A, Mailis-Gagnon A, Zoheiry N, Lakha SF. Efficacy and adverse effects of medical marijuana for chronic noncancer pain: Systematic review of randomized controlled trials . Can Fam Physician. 2015;61(8):e372-81.

Hill KP, Palastro MD, Johnson B, Ditre JW. Cannabis and pain: a clinical review .  Cannabis Cannabinoid Res . 2017;2(1):96-104. doi:10.1089/can.2017.0017

Maida V, Daeninck PJ. A user's guide to cannabinoid therapies in oncology . Curr Oncol. 2016;23(6):398-406. doi:10.3747/co.23.3487

Meier MH, Caspi A, Cerdá M, et al. Associations between cannabis use and physical health problems in early midlife: A longitudinal comparison of persistent cannabis vs tobacco users. JAMA Psychiatry. 2016;73(7):731-40. doi:10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2016.0637

By Angela Morrow, RN Angela Morrow, RN, BSN, CHPN, is a certified hospice and palliative care nurse.

• Share full article

Advertisement

Supported by

Legalizing Marijuana: Pros and Cons

To the Editor:

Much of the country — with The New York Times regrettably in the vanguard — is advocating the reckless addition of a third drug, marijuana, to two drugs currently legal for adults: alcohol and tobacco. These two legal drugs are the leading causes of preventable illness.

The legal status of a drug has dramatic impact on its use. In the last 30 days, 52 percent of Americans 12 and older used alcohol, 27 percent used tobacco and only 7 percent used marijuana. The dramatically lower level of marijuana use reflects its illegal status, not its appeal. Why is it in our nation’s interest to see marijuana use climb? Since when is smoking a program that we promote?

The best policy to protect public health is one that reduces, not increases, marijuana use. There are plenty of ways to achieve this goal, including a strong public education effort focused on the negative health effects of marijuana.

There are reasons why employers, including the United States government, prohibit marijuana use in the workplace. There are reasons why marijuana emergency room admissions are reported at the rate of 1,250 a day and 455,000 a year, and why highway crashes double for marijuana users.

We cannot ignore the negative effects that legalization would have on under-age use and addiction, highway safety, treatment costs, mental health problems, emergency room admissions, workplace accidents and productivity, and personal health.

PETER BENSINGER ROBERT L. DuPONT Chicago, July 30, 2014

Mr. Bensinger was administrator of the Drug Enforcement Administration from 1976 to 1981. Mr. DuPont, president of the Institute for Behavior and Health, was director of the National Institute on Drug Abuse from 1973 to 1978. They are co-founders of Bensinger, DuPont & Associates, which provides employee assistance program, gambling helpline and drug-testing services.

I applaud the editorial board for highlighting the disastrous social costs of marijuana prohibition and for taking a courageous position in calling for national legalization. I became a mother in 1971, the same year that President Nixon declared the “war on drugs.” Twenty years later my son was arrested for marijuana possession, which began a decade of cycling through the criminal justice system for nonviolent drug offenses.

The outlawing of marijuana translated into a war that has been waged against families like mine for over four decades. Prohibition has robbed children of their futures, while building a huge prison-industrial complex. It has caused countless casualties, wasted taxpayer dollars, promoted discrimination and taken away basic human liberties.

Mothers were instrumental in ending alcohol prohibition in the 1930s, and once again moms are uniting to end marijuana prohibition for the sake of our children and future generations.

GRETCHEN BURNS BERGMAN Spring Valley, Calif., July 28, 2014

The writer is co-founder and executive director of a New PATH (Parents for Addiction Treatment and Healing).

I am concerned by the editorial board’s stance in favor of marijuana legalization. It has been only six months since retail marijuana sales began in Colorado, and just weeks since the rollout in Washington State. A robust, objective analysis of outcomes in these two states is the only way to determine the best policy on this issue, but for now, it is too early to make a sound judgment.

What we do know is that marijuana is harmful, particularly for the still-developing adolescent brain. As we’ve seen with alcohol and tobacco, imposing a minimum age will probably not be enough to prevent a spike in teenage use and addiction.

Considering this likely consequence, not to mention the economic burden of regulating the drug and treating new problematic users, we may find that the societal costs of legalization outweigh the benefits. However, if we make pronouncements before we see the research, we’re jumping the gun. Let’s let the facts speak for themselves.

HOWARD P. MEITINER New York, July 28, 2014

The writer is president and chief executive of Phoenix House, a drug and alcohol rehabilitation center.

As your July 27 editorial “ Repeal Prohibition, Again ” says: “There are legitimate concerns about marijuana on the development of adolescent brains. For that reason, we advocate the prohibition of sales to people under 21.”

Our concern about legalization is its effect on kids. Society may not do much better at enforcing this restriction on sale and marketing of marijuana to kids than we have with alcohol and tobacco. Research shows that use of any of these drugs in adolescence — especially early adolescence — significantly heightens risks of substance use disorders in later life.

We need to provide a much better prevention and treatment infrastructure, which expanded access to marijuana and increasing teenage use will require. That begins with limiting marijuana marketing that kids will be exposed to, and equipping parents with information about the very real health risks of early use.

These are not details to be sorted later, but vital considerations. These are the considerations that matter most to us, and to most parents, including — research shows — those favoring legalization.

STEVE PASIERB President and Chief Executive Partnership for Drug-Free Kids New York, July 29, 2014

The letter from Peter Bensinger and Robert L. DuPont has been revised to add their company affiliation to the identification line.

• Skip to main content
• Keyboard shortcuts for audio player

Planet Money

• Planet Money Podcast
• The Indicator Podcast
• Planet Money Newsletter Archive
• Planet Money Summer School

• LISTEN & FOLLOW
• Apple Podcasts
• Google Podcasts
• Amazon Music

Your support helps make our show possible and unlocks access to our sponsor-free feed.

The Data On Legalizing Weed

Greg Rosalsky

Editor's note: This is an excerpt of Planet Money 's newsletter. You can sign up here .

Last month, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy signed three bills making it official: marijuana will soon be growing legally in the gardens of the Garden State for anyone over 21 to enjoy. The bills follow through on a marijuana legalization ballot initiative that New Jerseyans approved overwhelmingly last year. New Jersey is now one of a dozen states, plus the District of Columbia, which have let loose the magic dragon — and more states, like Virginia, may be on the way.

It's been almost a decade since Colorado and Washington legalized marijuana. That's given economists and other researchers enough time to study the effects of the policy. Here are some of the most interesting findings:

Legalization didn't seem to substantially affect crime rates — Proponents of legalizing weed claimed it would reduce violent crimes. Opponents said it would increase violent crimes. A study by the CATO Institute finds, "Overall, violent crime has neither soared nor plummeted in the wake of marijuana legalization."

Legalization seems to have little or no effect on traffic accidents and fatalities — Opponents of marijuana legalization argued it would wreak havoc on the road. A few studies have found that's not the case. Economists Benjamin Hansen, Keaton S. Miller & Caroline Weber, for instance, found evidence suggesting it had no effect on trends in traffic fatalities in both Colorado and Washington.

Legalization has barely affected the price of marijuana — Many people believed that marijuana prices would crash after legalization, providing an increased incentive to use it. But a recent study by the CATO institute found prices have barely budged. The price of getting high has stayed high. In California, for example, the price of marijuana actually increased after legalization, before leveling off at about $260 an ounce. Before full legalization, it cost about $250 an ounce. All the states that have legalized marijuana have seen prices converge around that level. "The convergence in prices across states is consistent with the idea that legalization diverts marijuana commerce from underground markets to legal retail shops, allowing retailers to charge a premium as the preferred sources of supply," the authors write.

Legalization has created jobs. Lots of jobs — A new report by Leafly and Whitney Economics finds the marijuana industry is booming. In 2020 alone, they calculate, it created 77,000 jobs. Across the country, there are about 321,000 jobs in the legal marijuana industry. That's more than the mining industry .

Legalization is good for state budgets — Tax revenue from legal recreational marijuana has surpassed everyone's expectations. Colorado usually collects more than $20 million a month. In 2020, the state collected a total of $387 million. The California government collects more than $50 million a month. You can find similar stories in other states that have legalized.

Legalization may be good for states' workers' comp programs — A new working paper by economists Rahi Abouk, Keshar M. Ghimire, Johanna Catherine Maclean and David Powell finds that states that legalized recreational marijuana saw a significant decline in the use of their worker compensation systems. They estimate that the number of workers aged 40-62 who received income from workers comp fell by about 20 percent following legalization. Evidence suggests that the reason for the decline is that marijuana provides "an additional form of pain management therapy" that reduces use of opioids, which are highly addictive and can be much more debilitating. Marijuana's effect on reducing opioid abuse has been documented in other studies .

Depending on whom you ask, it's not all good news. If you believe smoking marijuana is bad, then you'll be unhappy to hear that its use, naturally, increases after legalization. A study in the American Journal For Preventative Medicine , for example, found that legalization in Washington may be stalling the decades-long decline of marijuana use amongst teens. Another study found adults over 26 consume more cannabis after legalization. It seems even the AARP crowd is toking up more these days, too.

Did you enjoy this newsletter segment? Well, it looks even better in your inbox! You can sign up here .

• legalization

An official website of the United States government

The .gov means it’s official. Federal government websites often end in .gov or .mil. Before sharing sensitive information, make sure you’re on a federal government site.

The site is secure. The https:// ensures that you are connecting to the official website and that any information you provide is encrypted and transmitted securely.

• Publications
• Account settings

Preview improvements coming to the PMC website in October 2024. Learn More or Try it out now .

• Advanced Search
• Journal List
• v.109(2); Mar-Apr 2012

Legalization, Decriminalization & Medicinal Use of Cannabis: A Scientific and Public Health Perspective

Empirical and clinical studies clearly demonstrate significant adverse effects of cannabis smoking on physical and mental health as well as its interference with social and occupational functioning. These negative data far outweigh a few documented benefits for a limited set of medical indications, for which safe and effective alternative treatments are readily available. If there is any medical role for cannabinoid drugs, it lies with chemically defined compounds, not with unprocessed cannabis plant. Legalization or medical use of smoked cannabis is likely to impose significant public health risks, including an increased risk of schizophrenia, psychosis, and other forms of substance use disorders.

Introduction

In recent years, there has been a strong pressure on state legislatures across the US to legalize or decriminalize use and possession of specified amounts of cannabis and/or to pass laws that allow smoking of crude cannabis plant (also known as marijuana, weed, Mary Jane, pot, reefers, ganja, joint and grass) for prescribed medical purposes (so called “medical marijuana”). Advocacy groups claim that smoking cannabis is a safe and effective treatment for various psychological and medical conditions, ranging from stress and anxiety to Alzheimer’s dementia and Parkinson’s disease, even though cannabis is not approved for such use by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Legalization of cannabis is the process of removing all legal prohibitions against it. Cannabis would then be available to the adult general population for purchase and use at will, similar to tobacco and alcohol. Decriminalization is the act of removing criminal sanctions against an act, article, or behavior. Decriminalization of cannabis means it would remain illegal, but the legal system would not prosecute a person for possession under a specified amount. Instead, the penalties would range from no penalties at all, civil fines, drug education, or drug treatment.

No state has legalized cannabis thus far. It remains a US federally-controlled substance, which makes possession and distribution illegal. However, at the time of this writing, 26 states in the US have passed either medical cannabis laws, cannabis decriminalization laws, or both. See Table 1 . A major concern of this commentary is that both the medicinal use of smoked cannabis plant and legalization/decriminalization of cannabis are being advocated in a way that circumvents the normal testing and regulatory processes by the FDA that is otherwise required for all drugs marketed for human use in the US. By circumventing this process, advocacy groups put state legislatures and/or voters in the position to decide on proposals with a certain impact on public health and medical treatment without necessarily being qualified to understand the pertinent scientific evidence.

US Cannabis Use Legislated into Law without FDA Approval

Taking advantage of the obscure legal status of cannabis (i.e., federally banned illicit drug but approved by local governments for medical and/or recreational purposes), businesses involving sales of cannabis are flourishing and even stock-market investments are available. For example, CannabisInvestments.com provides information on ways one can invest in hemp-related and medical marijuana products and companies. These business interest groups are ratcheting pressure on state legislatures to decriminalize or medicalize cannabis, counting on support of millions of addicted users and politicians looking for re-election votes and unaware of the dangers of such a legislative act.

History and Legal Status of Cannabis

Historically, cannabis has been used in various cultures and populations as indigenous therapy for a range of medical ailments (e.g., fever, insomnia, cachexia, headache, constipation, rheumatic pain) and diseases (e.g., venereal disease, malaria). Due to its presumed medical benefits, cannabis was recognized as an official, licit drug and listed in the U.S. Pharmacopoeia in 1850. Recreational use of cannabis surged in the 1930s during the Prohibition Era. In 1937, the Marijuana Tax Act effectively thwarted all cannabis use without criminalizing its possession or use. In 1970, the Controlled Substances Act classified cannabis as schedule I illicit drugs, the most restrictive category, and made possession a federal crime.

Reefer Madness is a well-known 1936 American propaganda exploitation film revolving around the melodramatic events that ensue when high school students are lured by pushers to try “marijuana” — from a hit and run accident, to manslaughter, suicide, attempted rape, and descent into madness.

The Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), which administers the Controlled Substances Act, continues to support the Schedule I assignment (and FDA concurred) noting that cannabis meets the three criteria for such placement under 21 U.S.C. 812(b):

• high potential for abuse;
• no currently accepted medical use in the US; and
• lack of accepted safety for use under medical supervision.

A past evaluation by several Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) agencies, including FDA, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and National Institute for Drug Abuse (NIDA), concluded that no sound scientific studies supported medical use of marijuana and no animal or human data supported the safety or efficacy of marijuana for general medical use. 1

Popular Perception of Cannabis Use

In the public debate, cannabis has been considered a relatively benign recreational drug in comparison to opiates, stimulants, even alcohol. The favorable popular perception of cannabis presumably reflects the absence of dramatic physical signs of intoxication or withdrawal. Incidentally, cessation of cannabis use does cause withdrawal, but the severity is masked by the gradual release of delta 9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the major psychoactive ingredient in cannabis, from fat tissue (adipocytes) where it accumulates during chronic use. The process is not unlike the tapering of medication during detoxification.

The general public has not been adequately informed about recent scientific findings demonstrating major adverse effects of smoking cannabis on physical and especially mental health, the latter varying in range from cognitive dulling, brief psychotic experiences, to long-term addiction and chronic psychosis. 2 , 3

Epidemiology of Cannabis Use and Addiction

Cannabis (here referring to smoking of cannabis plants) is the most commonly used illicit drug in the US. Data from The National Survey on Drug Use and Health 4 , 5 indicate that 44% of males and 35% of females have used marijuana at least once in their life time. More recent studies suggest that regular use of marijuana is increasing. Data from National Survey on Drug Use and Health 6 indicate that in persons over the age of 12, the rate of past month cannabis use and the number of users in 2009 (6.6 percent or 16.7 million) were higher compared to 2008 (6.1% or 15.2 million) and 2007 (5.8% or 14.4 million).

Medicinal Use of Cannabinoids in Pill Form

Since THC was first isolated and purified 7 from the cannabis plant in 1965, more than 400 chemicals have been isolated, approximately 60 of which are cannabinoids, compounds that are the active agents of cannabis. Reflecting a rapidly growing interest in the therapeutic potential of cannabis, about 21 cannabinoids are currently under study by the US FDA. 8

More recently, two types of cannabinoid receptors have been identified: CB1 found mostly in the central nervous system and responsible for psychoactive properties of cannabis, and CB2 found mostly in the spleen, immune tissues, and peripheral blood, and responsible for immunological and anti-inflammatory effects of cannabis. 9 , 10 A group of endo-cannabinoids has been also identified, e.g., arachidonoylethanolamine or anandamide, as endogenous chemical modulators which mimic the actions of phytocannabinoids and activate cannabinoid receptors. 10 These discoveries have led to the development of numerous CB receptor agonists and antagonists and numerous studies have tested therapeutic indications for these compounds. Medications containing natural or synthetic cannabinoids currently approved or being considered for approval for medicinal use are listed below:

Dronabinol (proprietary name Marinol), a synthetic THC, is FDA approved as an antiemetic in patients undergoing cancer chemotherapy, as an appetite stimulant for weight loss/decreased food intake in AIDS patients, and less frequently to augment analgesic treatment. Dronabinol is a Schedule III medication, indicating it has some potential for psychological and physical dependence.

Nabilone (proprietary name Cesamet), is a synthetic cannabinoid. FDA approved for peroral treatment of nausea and vomiting in chemotherapy patients who have not responded to conventional antiemetics, and anorexia and weight loss in patients with AIDS. Nabilone is a Schedule II medication, with high potential for mental health side effects and addiction.

Sativex , a liquid extract from cannabis plant, is used as oral spray (“liquid marijuana”), contains THC, cannnabidiol (CBD), and other cannabinoids. Sativex has been approved for neuropathic pain, emesis, overactive bladder, and spasticity in several countries including England, Canada, and Spain. Phase III studies of Sativex are currently underway in the US, thus it does not have a schedule assigned to it.

These medications have been approved for specific indications (nausea, vomiting, cachexia) and are currently studied for a number of new indications, such as spastic syndromes, neurological disorders, neuropathic pain, and other pain syndromes, among others. Note that use of medications that have been tested and approved by the FDA is not controversial. What is objectionable is that current efforts to legalize cannabis crude plant use state legislative processes to bypass federal regulatory processes that were put in place specifically to protect the public health.

Suggested Non-FDA Approved Uses of Cannabinoids and Smoked Cannabis

Suggested but as of yet not FDA-approved indications for smoked cannabis and/or cannabinoids include spastic syndromes in neurological disorders, pain syndromes, and glaucoma. We reviewed about 70 studies of oral cannabinoids and the few available studies of smoked cannabis for a number of medical indications. As expected, prescription cannabinoids are effective antiemetics and appetite stimulants, and some studies report their effectiveness as adjunct therapy in chronic pain syndromes, spasticity, and glaucoma. Similar results are reported by the few studies of smoked cannabis plant for these same indications. As noted earlier, safe and effective alternative treatments for all these syndromes are available. Studies assessing psychological aspects of smoked cannabis and prescription cannabinoids uniformly report undesired effects: acute psychosis, poorer prognosis of chronic psychosis, or cognitive dulling in medical patients. In other words, in addition to a number of adverse medical effects (next section), psychological effects of cannabis are common and detrimental. Unfortunately, we found no long-term studies investigating whether and how frequently chronic use of small amounts of cannabis for medicinal purposes develops into cannabis abuse and/or addiction.

Adverse Medical Effects of Cannabis and THC

The extant scientific literature by and large reflects the harmful effects of inhaled cannabis smoke. In what follows we review some of these reports.

Respiratory

Many of the same mutagens and carcinogens found in tobacco smoke are found in marijuana smoke as well. 11 Marijuana smoking has been shown to decrease pulmonary function, produce chronic cough, airway inflammation and abnormal cell growth that may antecede the onset of cancer. 12 However, the International Agency for Research on Cancer found the epidemiologic data inconclusive as to the increased risk of cancer from cannabis use versus that of tobacco smokers. 13 In contrast to tobacco, marijuana-smoking lung injury is not reversed on abstinence. 14

Immunologic

In humans, an increase in mortality of HIV-positive cannabis users has been observed. 15

Cardiovascular

Direct stimulation of the cardiac pacemaker by marijuana leads to an increase in heart rate making THC unsafe in cardiac patients. 14

Daily cannabis use is a risk factor for fibrosis progression via steatogenic effects, thus, daily cannabis use in patients with liver disease is contraindicated. 16 Cannabis users metabolize and activate or inactivate drugs more slowly than normal, 17 potentiating the deleterious effects of the drugs.

Endocrine and Reproductive Systems

In preclinical studies, cannabinoids have shown inhibitory effects on pituitary luteinizing hormone, prolactin, growth hormone, and thyroid stimulating hormone with little effect on follicle-stimulating hormone. 18 , 19 Marijuana can disrupt female reproductive health. 20 Women who smoke marijuana during pregnancy are more likely to have low birth weight infants possibly from a shorter gestation. 21 The effects of maternal marijuana use on infant development have not been systematically studied. However, the lipid solubility of THC allows for rapid transit in breast milk, where it has been shown to accumulate and eventually pass to the newborn. 22

Carcinogenesis

Cannabis use increases the incidence of testicular germ cell tumors – TGCT. 23 The authors observed a 70% increased risk of TGCT associated with current marijuana use, and the risk was particularly elevated for current use that was at least weekly or that began in adolescence. These associations were independent of known TGCT risk factors.

Effects of Smoked Cannabis on Mental Health

Smoking cannabis has a number of acute and chronic pathogenic effects on human mental health. 3 , 24 Direct causal effects of chronic use are difficult to scientifically establish because the condition cannot be randomly assigned or manipulated experimentally for ethical reasons. Nevertheless, prospective population studies indicate that early cannabis use frequently serves as a prelude (or “gateway”) to other illicit drug use. Despite occasional non-confirmatory results, the “gateway sequence” is the most common pattern in the sequential progression in drug use, 25 where marijuana use often is the initial step leading towards more powerful and more harmful drugs.

The mental effects of smoked cannabis include mental slowness, “relaxation”, tiredness, euphoria, and some users report anxiety and paranoia. Acute negative effects on cognition and performance, limited to periods of intoxication, have been all well-documented. 26 , 27 Long-term effects of cannabis use on cognitive performance involve subtle and selective impairments of specific higher cognitive functions 27 , 28 including an impaired ability to focus attention and filter out irrelevant information, which is progressive with the cumulative duration of exposure to cannabis. 29 These effects of chronic use recover only partially in ex-cannabis users, but the past duration of cannabis use continued to have an adverse effect on the ability to effectively reject complex irrelevant information. 30

Remodeling of Brain Reward Circuits - Cannabis Addiction

Active ingredients in cannabis, THC in particular, affect neurophysiological and behavioral systems in ways similar to addictive drugs. 31 Cannabis use is associated with reinforcing pleasurable feelings of reward and euphoria either through direct effects on CB1 receptors expressed in N. Accumbens or through collateral circuits (including endogenous opiate receptors) with similar effects on the reward pathway in the brain. 31 In most cases, addictive drugs “reset” the threshold for stimulation of the reward pathway at a higher level, where only supraphysiological stimulation by drugs can generate the desired feeling of reward. This “hijacking” of the reward pathway reduces the motivational power of natural rewards (e.g. food, opportunity to mate, relationships, etc) and thus reshapes normal motivational priorities. With repeated stimulation of this pathway, cannabis use induces neural plasticity and alters reward-based learning, 32 all leading to phenomenological and behavioral features typical of addiction. Suggestive of its high addictiveness, cannabis is the most commonly used illicit drug in the US and rate of its use continues to rise. 4 , 5 , 6

Cannabis Use and Well-Being

Proponents of cannabis use argue that smoking cannabis provides relaxation and pleasure, enhances the sense of well being, contributes to stress-relief, and helps to deal with hard reality. Of course, any enhancement of well being of a mentally healthy person through use of a psychoactive substance is some sense an oxymoron. Furthermore, cannabis use decreases cortical dopamine 33 which plays a major role in higher cognitive functions, working memory, executive function, etc. Hence, the “relaxed” feeling most cannabis users report as a desirable acute effect, in all likelihood reflects cognitive dulling (“amotivational syndrome”) caused by decreases in cortical dopamine. In other words, the weight of evidence indicates that cannabis creates cognitive dulling rather than reduction in anxiety, indifference rather than relaxation, and amotivation rather than inner peace, all closer to psychopathology than to well being.

Cannabis Use and Work Performance

There is an ongoing debate whether cannabis use interferes with people’s ability to work, relate to others, and/or live a normal life. Recent research clearly shows that any work that requires cognitive involvement and decision making is affected by cannabis use. 27 , 28 , 29 , 34 In a study of young, otherwise mentally and physically healthy cannabis users, Wadsworth et al 28 report an association between cannabis use and impairment in cognitive function and mood but not with workplace errors (although there was an association with lower alertness and slower response organization). Users experienced working memory problems at the start, and psychomotor slowing and poorer episodic recall at the end of the work week. This highlights the importance of the timing of testing within the context and routine of everyday life. In a separate study of the same sample, cannabis use had a significant negative impact on safety at work (such as self-reported accidents), road traffic accidents, and minor injuries. 34 Those who had higher levels of other risk factors associated with accidents and who also used cannabis were more likely to report an accident in the previous year. Thus, it is possible that cannabis-related effects were linked to an amplification of other risk factors associated with accidents and injuries. 34

Cannabis Use and Mental Health in the General Population

According to the study 35 of 18,500 cannabis smokers published by Statistics Netherlands in October 2010, cannabis users suffer mental health problems twice as often as nonusers. The relative risk of mental problems was doubled in male and female cannabis users (20% and 28%, respectively) compared to male and female nonusers (10% and 14%, respectively). Most common mental health issues reported by cannabis users were anxiety, melancholy, sadness, and impatience. In contrast, physical health of users and nonusers barely differed. Though technically illegal, the Netherlands decriminalized the consumption and possession of less than 5 grams (0.18 ounces) of cannabis in 1976 under an official “tolerance” policy.

Taking advantage of the obscure legal status of cannabis, businesses involving sales of cannabis are flourishing and even stock-market investments are available.

For example, CannabisInvestments. com provides information on ways one can invest in hemp-related and medical marijuana products and companies.

CNS Effects of Chronic Cannabis Use

Recently, specific pathogenic effects of cannabis on human brain tissue have been documented. Using high-resolution (3-T) structural magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), Yucel et al 36 determined long-term heavy cannabis use is associated with gross anatomical abnormalities in two cannabinoid receptor–rich regions of the brain, the hippocampus and the amygdala. Subects were healthy males with long-term (more than 10 years) and heavy (more than five joints daily) cannabis use with no history of poly-drug use or neurologic/mental disorders. Cannabis users had bilaterally and significantly reduced hippocampal and amygdala volumes, with changes greater in the hippocampus. In fact, left hemisphere hippocampal volume was inversely associated with cumulative exposure to cannabis during the previous 10 years as well as with subthreshold positive psychotic symptoms. Positive psychosis symptom scores were also associated with cumulative exposure to cannabis.

Cannabis Use and the Risk of Schizophrenia, Psychosis, and Affective Disorders

Cannabis use is among the environmental factors associated with increased risk and worsened prognosis of schizophrenia and some data suggest a causal effect. 3 Cannabis use also is associated with more prevalent expressions of a wider psychosis phenotype. Isolated psychotic symptoms have reported prevalences of 5–15% among chronic cannabis users. 2 , 3 Although causality remains difficult to infer from observational studies, the weight of the evidence appears to favor a causal contribution from cannabis use for the development of Schizophrenia and psychosis. 2

Recent meta-analyses lend further support to the hypothesis that cannabis use causally contributes to the increased risk of development of schizophrenia. In a comprehensive and systematic meta-analysis, Moore et al 37 determined whether cannabis use contributes causally to the development of nonsubstance psychiatric illness, such as schizophrenia and affective disorders. The study was designed to address as much as possible two of the most important methodological problems in studying the relation between cannabis use and psychosis: 1) the potential for reverse causality (where psychosis causes cannabis use and not vice versa) and 2) the transitory intoxication effects (that is misinterpreted as psychosis as the false positive error). The results indicated that the risk of psychosis is increased by roughly 40% (pooled adjusted OR: 1.41) in cannabis users. The results were not as impressive for affective disorders. Within the users, a dose-response effect was observed with the risk more than doubled (OR =2.1) in the most frequent users. For cannabis and psychosis, there was evidence of confounding effects, but the associations persisted in almost all studies, even after adjustment for comprehensive lists of variables. The authors concluded that “there is now sufficient evidence to warn young people that using cannabis could increase their risk of developing a psychotic illness later in life” (page 319).

In a meta analysis of peer-reviewed publications in English reporting age at onset of psychotic illness in substance using and non–substance using groups Large et al 38 found an association between cannabis use and earlier onset of psychosis (the effect was not seen with alcohol). The authors suggest the need for renewed warnings about the potentially harmful effects of cannabis. Similar findings are reported by other authors. 39

Genetic Moderation of Cannabis Effect on Psychosis

One of the most puzzling aspects of cannabis-associated psychosis is that schizophrenia is not rising in incidence to reflect prevalent cannabis use. The likely answer is that there is variation in individual sensitivity to the psychosis-inducing effects of cannabis. In other words, individuals who have a greater biological vulnerability to psychosis are more likely to develop psychotic experiences when exposed to cannabis. As an example, the COMT Val/Val genotype is a risk factor for schizophrenia in the general population 40 presumably by providing a pathological substrate, such as low dopamine in the frontal cortex 40 and high mesolimbic dopamine. 41 Both conditions are believed to contribute to schizophrenia symptoms. Carriers of the COMT Val/Val genotype have low cortical dopamine but do not automatically develop schizophrenia. Rather, this genotype is considered to be a matter of individual variability in the level of cortical dopamine. Hovever, carriers of this genotype, who were also chronic cannabis users as adolescents, have a dramatically (up to 10 times) higher risk of psychosis 42 compared to adult-onset cannabis users with the same genotype. Cannabis use is reported to further decrease cortical 33 and increase mesolimbic dopamine 43 possibly amplifying the preexisting, genetically created dopamine deficit. If occurring during the sensitive developmental period of adolescence, such augmentation may synergistically facilitate the onset of psychosis. Similar interactive synergism was recently described for the AKT1 gene and cannabis. 45

Finally, recent study by Welch et al 44 was the first longitudinal study to demonstrate an association between thalamic volume loss and exposure to cannabis in people currently unaffected by Schizophrenia but with increased risk for the illness due to positive family history. As Welch et al 44 conclude, this finding may be important in understanding the link between cannabis exposure and the subsequent development of Schizophrenia.

Empirical and clinical studies reviewed here clearly demonstrate pathological effects of cannabis smoking on physical and especially mental health as well as its interference with social and occupational functioning. We did not find a single methodologically sound study to suggest that the benefits of smoking cannabis outweigh the associated risks. These negative data far outweigh documented benefits for a limited set of medical indications for which safe and effective alternative treatments are readily available. However, advocacy groups are pursuing legalization or medical use of smoked cannabis, largely ignoring pills containing extracted THC and other cannabinoids. It appears therefore that it is not the benefit of active cannabis ingredients, but the route of administration, a wider set of indications, and the ritual of use that’s being advocated. Based on the empirical and clinical evidence reviewed here, it seems safe to conclude that, if there is any medical role for cannabinoid drugs, it lies with chemically modified extracts, not with unprocessed cannabis plant.

Dragan M. Svrakic, MD, PhD, and Patrick J. Lustman, PhD, practice at the Washington University School of Medicine and the Veterans Administration Medical Center in St. Louis. Ashok Mallya, MD, Taylor Andrea Lynn, PhD, and Rhonda Finney, RN, practice at the Veterans Administration Medical Center. Neda M. Svrakic, is at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.

Contact: [email protected]

None reported.

AFS Programs

Pros and Cons of Legalizing Marijuana: An Argumentative Essay

The debate over the legalization of marijuana has revealed strong opinions on both sides and continues to suffer from an ongoing argument. As published studies show, there are both positive and negative effects associated with marijuana use. While some argue that it should remain illegal due to its potential to be a gateway drug and its negative impact on health, others believe that it has important medicinal uses and can help alleviate pain and anxiety.

One important statistic to consider is that 9 out of 10 Americans have tried marijuana in some form, according to a survey done by Kelley Smart. This indicates that marijuana is already prevalent in society, regardless of its legal status. Therefore, legalizing it would provide an opportunity for the government to monitor and regulate its use, making it safer for individuals and reducing the involvement of criminal organizations in the marijuana market.

In addition, there have been numerous stories published about the positive effects of marijuana on medical conditions such as epilepsy. Children who suffer from epileptic seizures have shown significant improvement after using medicinal marijuana, as documented in their personal stories. This supports the idea that marijuana can be an effective treatment option for certain health conditions.

On the other hand, opponents argue that legalizing marijuana may lead to an increase in drug use, especially among youths. They cite research that shows a correlation between marijuana use and a decrease in academic performance, as well as an increased likelihood of developing addiction problems later in life. These negative effects cannot be ignored and should be taken into consideration when weighing the pros and cons of legalization.

Pros and Cons of Legalizing Marijuana

One of the best arguments in favor of legalizing marijuana is its potential medicinal uses. Current research has revealed that marijuana can be beneficial in alleviating symptoms of conditions such as epilepsy, anxiety, and chronic pain. Supporters argue that legalizing marijuana would make it easier for patients to access this type of treatment.

Another reason to support the legalization of marijuana is the potential economic benefits. The cannabis industry has seen a rapid growth in recent years, with the legal market reaching billions of dollars. Legalization could create jobs and generate tax revenue that can be used for various purposes, such as education and healthcare.

While there are strong arguments in favor of legalizing marijuana, there are also valid concerns and reasons to oppose it. One of the main concerns is the potential for increased substance abuse. Opponents argue that making marijuana legally available may lead to higher rates of usage, especially among younger individuals.

Another argument against legalization is the negative impact it could have on public health. Some studies have suggested that marijuana use can have negative effects on cognitive function, especially when it comes to memory and learning. Concerns have also been raised about the potential for marijuana to be a gateway drug, leading to the use of more harmful substances.

Lastly, there is disagreement about the long-term effects of marijuana use. While some studies have shown potential benefits, others have cited negative effects such as increased risk of mental health issues and the potential for addiction. The debate surrounding marijuana legalization is ongoing, with differing opinions about its overall impact on individuals and society.

An Argumentative Essay

Another argument for legalizing marijuana is its potential medical benefits. Numerous research studies have shown that marijuana can be used to alleviate symptoms of various medical conditions, such as chronic pain, epilepsy, and multiple sclerosis. By legalizing marijuana, patients can have easier access to this alternative medicine.

Furthermore, legalization can help in changing the negative attitudes towards marijuana and its users. Many people view marijuana users as lazy, unmotivated individuals. However, this stereotype is not supported by research and stories of successful and productive individuals who use marijuana. Legalization can help shift these stereotypes and bring more understanding and acceptance to those who use marijuana responsibly.

On the other hand, there are concerns about the potential negative effects of marijuana use, especially among younger individuals. Some studies have shown a link between heavy marijuana use in adolescence and cognitive impairments later in life. Pediatricians, in particular, worry about the impact of legalization on the development of young brains.

There are also concerns about the potential for marijuana abuse and addiction. While marijuana may not be as addictive as other substances, there are still individuals who develop dependence and struggle to quit. Legalizing marijuana may increase access and availability, potentially leading to more individuals becoming dependent on the drug.

About Half Say They Have Tried Marijuana

While this number may seem high, it’s worth considering that the overall perception of marijuana has shifted significantly in recent years. With the ongoing debate surrounding its legalization, more and more people have become open to trying marijuana for medicinal or recreational purposes. Many individuals argue that marijuana is a natural alternative to other substances, such as cigarettes or alcohol, and that it can even have potential medicinal benefits.

Opponents of marijuana legalization, on the other hand, argue that the drug can have negative effects on individuals’ health, especially when used heavily or at a young age. Studies have shown that heavy marijuana use can lead to deficits in cognitive functioning and can increase the risk of mental health issues, particularly among young people.

Positive Effects of Legalization

Another positive effect of legalization is the potential for increased tax revenue. As marijuana becomes a legal product, it can be taxed just like alcohol and cigarettes. This tax revenue can be used to fund important social programs such as education and healthcare.

The legalization of marijuana can also have positive impacts on public health. While marijuana use does have some risks, the legalization and regulation of the drug allows for better control and monitoring. This can help to ensure that the product is safe and of high quality, reducing the risk of individuals being exposed to dangerous substances.

Lastly, the legalization of marijuana can stimulate the economy through job creation and increased tourism. The marijuana industry has the potential to create a significant number of new jobs, benefiting both urban and rural communities. Furthermore, marijuana tourism can attract visitors from around the world, boosting local economies.

In summary, the positive effects of legalizing marijuana are numerous. It can reduce crime, generate tax revenue, improve public health, address racial disparities in drug enforcement, and stimulate economic growth. These benefits should be considered in the ongoing debate about marijuana legalization.

Negative Effects of Legalization

The report also pointed out that the current trend of marijuana legalization has made the drug more accessible to youth. A survey conducted by the National Survey on Drug Use and Health found that about 1 in 10 youths aged 12 to 17 reported using marijuana in the past month in 2017, which was significantly higher than the reported rates in states where marijuana is illegal.

Furthermore, the legalization of marijuana has also led to an increase in emergency room visits related to the drug’s use. A study published in Pediatrics in 2018 analyzed the number of pediatric emergency department visits for marijuana-related reasons in Colorado before and after the drug was legalized in the state. The study found that the number of visits more than doubled from 2005 to 2015.

Another concern is the increase in marijuana-related traffic accidents. A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine in 2018 analyzed the effect of marijuana legalization on motor vehicle crash fatality rates in the United States from 1985 to 2014. The study found that states that legalized marijuana had a 5.2% higher rate of crash fatalities compared to states where marijuana was illegal.

What are the benefits of legalizing marijuana?

Legalizing marijuana can have several benefits. Firstly, it can generate tax revenue for the government, which can be used for various public services and programs. Secondly, it can create job opportunities in the marijuana industry, boosting the economy. Additionally, legalizing marijuana can help regulate its quality and safety, reducing the risk of contaminated or dangerous products. It can also free up law enforcement resources, allowing them to focus on more serious crimes.

What are the drawbacks of legalizing marijuana?

There are also potential drawbacks to legalizing marijuana. One concern is that it could increase the number of people using marijuana, which may have negative health effects. Another drawback is the potential for increased drug abuse and addiction. Legalizing marijuana could also lead to more stoned driving incidents, similar to alcohol-related accidents. Additionally, it may be difficult to enforce regulations and control the black market, as some people may still prefer purchasing marijuana illegally.

What are the arguments against legalizing marijuana?

There are several arguments against legalizing marijuana. Some people believe that it can be a gateway drug, leading to the use of more dangerous substances. Others argue that marijuana can have negative effects on mental health, especially in young people. There is also concern about the impact on workplace productivity and safety, as marijuana use can impair cognitive function and motor skills. Finally, opponents of marijuana legalization worry that it can have a negative influence on youth and send the wrong message about drug use.

Can legalizing marijuana help with medical conditions?

Yes, legalizing marijuana can have benefits for medical conditions. Marijuana has been found to have therapeutic properties and can help alleviate symptoms of various illnesses, such as chronic pain, nausea, and seizures. It can also be used as an alternative to opioids for pain management, potentially reducing the risk of addiction. Legalizing marijuana can provide patients with safe and regulated access to medicine that can improve their quality of life.

Does legalizing marijuana lead to increased crime rates?

There is no clear consensus on the relationship between marijuana legalization and crime rates. Some studies suggest that legalizing marijuana can lead to a decrease in certain types of crimes, such as drug-related offenses or property crimes. However, other research indicates that marijuana legalization might have no significant impact on crime rates or may even lead to an increase in certain types of crimes. It is important to consider various factors and context when examining the relationship between marijuana legalization and crime.

What are the pros of legalizing marijuana?

Some proponents argue that legalizing marijuana would generate tax revenue, create jobs, and reduce drug-related violence.

By Alex Koliada, PhD

Alex Koliada, PhD, is a well-known doctor. He is famous for studying aging, genetics, and other medical conditions. He works at the Institute of Food Biotechnology and Genomics. His scientific research has been published in the most reputable international magazines. Alex holds a BA in English and Comparative Literature from the University of Southern California , and a TEFL certification from The Boston Language Institute.

We use cookies to enhance our website for you. Proceed if you agree to this policy or learn more about it.

• Essay Database >
• Essay Examples >
• Essays Topics >
• Essay on Drugs

Free Essay On Legalizing Marijuana: Pros And Cons

Type of paper: Essay

Topic: Drugs , Marijuana , Drug , Medicine , Health , Web , Law , Cons

Words: 1100

Published: 03/08/2023

ORDER PAPER LIKE THIS

Introduction

The man is always creative towards findings new ways of recreational activities. This kind of creative approach leads to both positive and negative ways, and sometimes these consequences can become a question in life and death. In this era, the world is experiencing rising concerns about the legalizing marijuana for recreational purposes. The seriousness of the matter can be observed from the fact that the voters in states like Washington and Colorado have even passed ballot initiatives for legalizing the drug ("Legalizing Recreational Marijuana”). The history tells us that, the issue of drugs is even used for gaining political mileage. The statement of John Ehrlichman, who was a domestic policy chief in Nixon administration, reveals that the President has used the drug in the war for undermining its opposition (Lopez). Despite the different facts, this essay analyzes the pros and cons of legalizing marijuana in order to develop a strong point on this issue.

Pros of legalizing Marijuana

It is the responsibility of the governments around the world to respect the freedom of the individuals, and significant importance should be given to the right of self-determination. The marijuana needs to be legalized if it is against the personal freedom of citizens. The legalizing of this drug will ensure that everyone has a right to decide its actions within the decided parameters. The legalizing will also help in implementing the safety controls because if a consumer is buying the drug from the street, then the chances of inhaling dangerous substances are high. This kind of risk can be prevented through proper legislation, and subsequent safety control system should be developed for gaining maximum benefits (Welsh). The war against drugs basically serves the interest of politicians such as President Nixon has used it against the African Americans. So by legalizing the Marijuana, this kind of possibility will be eliminated from the situation. The legalizing of marijuana has helped in decreasing the revenues of Mexican drug cartels, such as 1kg can now be purchased for $30 to $40, although previously it was available at $60 to $90. Hence, this shows that the change in official and governmental approach can become effective in reducing the price of marijuana (Pascual). Moreover, the most important benefit associated with this kind of legalizing exists in the form of its medical use. It will become easy to perform an effective treatment for different conditions such as epilepsy, posttraumatic, stress disorder and most importantly treatment of multiple sclerosis. Due to these kinds of benefits, states like California, New Jersey, do allow their citizens to use medical marijuana under certain types of conditions (Harding). The medical marijuana is also used for seizure disorders, chronic diseases and even it is recommended for a condition where the weight loss occurs due to the serious diseases like HIV or pain in nerves. The doctor recommends that the medical marijuana should only be used in the severe conditions, where the pain is not controllable; otherwise it can also create different kinds of risks for the patient.

Cons of Legalizing Marijuana

The advocates of legalizing the marijuana always claim that this drug is not that much addictive as cocaine or heroin. The medical practitioners, however, have confirmed that continuous use of marijuana can lead to addiction and even the research says that 10% out of the total users can get depended on this drug with the passage of time (Barclay). Due to this addictive nature of the drug, the discontinuing use of marijuana can lead to different types of other medical concerns such as anxiety and so forth. The marijuana is a strong drug, and it changes the way the body works. Such as when the drug is taken, the user can start experiencing new perceptions about the different things. The legalizing of marijuana can also result in excessive use. Consequently, it can cause serious damage to the brain condition of young adults. This is because vessels in the brain of a marijuana smoker restrict the flow of blood. Along with this, it also causes serious damage to the lungs; the marijuana has levels of carcinogens which are 50% to 70% higher than the smoke of tobacco. This shows that the excessive use of marijuana increases the amount of cancer-causing chemicals in the body. The excessive use of marijuana can affect the heart and the chances for heart problems like arrhythmias, heart palpitation also increases (NIH). If the marijuana is available easily, then the moral standards of the general public can get affected, and people will use this drug as a step forward for other harmful drugs such as heroin and cocaine. This is the reason that the law enforcement agencies are against the legalizing of marijuana.

The movement for legalizing the marijuana is gaining popularity among the masses, and it has become a reality in few states. By looking at the pros and cons, it is revealed that the responsibility of the government and law enforcement agencies will increase with the passage of time, especially in terms of developing a safety control system. The implementation phase of the system will not only prevent the risks but also help in increasing the benefits. The support for the legalizing of marijuana will increase but at the same time, researchers should put more efforts for decreasing the medical cons associated with the excessive use of marijuana.

Barclay, Rachel. "Marijuana Addiction Is Rare, But Very Real". Healthline. N.p., 2014. Web. 3 Apr. 2016. <http://www.healthline.com/health-news/marijuana-addiction-rare-but-real-072014> Harding, Anne. "Medical Marijuana". WebMD. N.p., 2016. Web. 3 Apr. 2016. < http://www.webmd.com/pain-management/features/medical-marijuana-uses> "Legalizing Recreational Marijuana – Pros and Cons". Drug Rehab. N.p., 2012. Web. 3 Apr. 2016.<http://www.drugrehab.us/news/pros-cons-legalizing-recreational-marijuana/> Lopez, German. "Nixon Official: Real Reason For The Drug War Was To Criminalize Black People And Hippies". Vox. N.p., 2016. Web. 3 Apr. 2016.<http://www.vox.com/2016/3/22/11278760/war-on-drugs-racism-nixon> NIH,. "What Are Marijuana’S Effects On General Physical Health?". Drugabuse.gov. N.p., 2016. Web. 3 Apr. 2016. <https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/marijuana/what-are-marijuanas-effects-general-physical-health> Pascual, Oscar. "Legal Marijuana Causes Mexican Drug Cartel Revenues To Plummet". Smell the Truth. N.p., 2016. Web. 3 Apr. 2016.<http://blog.sfgate.com/smellthetruth/2016/03/07/legal-marijuana-causes-mexican-drug-cartel-revenues-to-plummet/#photo-377485> Welsh, Jennifer. "23 Health Benefits of Marijuana". Business Insider. N.p., 2014. Web. 3 Apr. 2016.< http://www.businessinsider.com/health-benefits-of-medical-marijuana-2014-4>

Cite this page

Share with friends using:

Removal Request

Finished papers: 779

This paper is created by writer with

If you want your paper to be:

Well-researched, fact-checked, and accurate

Original, fresh, based on current data

Eloquently written and immaculately formatted

275 words = 1 page double-spaced

Get your papers done by pros!

Other Pages

Course work on costs and benefits of responding to incentives, upgrading from microsoft outlook 2003 to microsoft outlook 2007 into a business business plan, problem definition and perspectives report, essay on brand positioning, small organizations vs large organizations article review, parents should be cautious when taking risks that thesis, essay on philosophy of religion, essay on immigration, research paper on tell me a riddle by tillie olsen, case study on ecommerce, aircraft rescue and fighting essay example, economic systems capitalism vs socialism essay examples, example of course work on network security, social determinants in canadian public healthcare system research paper example, example of dynasties of early china essay, example of artist psyche movie review, example of autobiographical map essay, design of a faculty development model essay example, credit score course work, declaration thesis sample, persian gulf essays, george washington essays, the columbian exchange essays, income tax essays, forrest gump essays, loneliness essays, caravaggio essays, sacrifices essays, casino essays, dietary supplements essays, mending wall essays, gender differences essays, epistasis essays, jiddah essays, salvador dali research papers, ted bundy research papers, red scare research papers, immune system research papers, federation research papers, recession research papers, sorrow research papers, permit research papers, chairman research papers.

Password recovery email has been sent to [email protected]

Use your new password to log in

You are not register!

By clicking Register, you agree to our Terms of Service and that you have read our Privacy Policy .

Now you can download documents directly to your device!

Check your email! An email with your password has already been sent to you! Now you can download documents directly to your device.

or Use the QR code to Save this Paper to Your Phone

The sample is NOT original!

Short on a deadline?

Don't waste time. Get help with 11% off using code - GETWOWED

No, thanks! I'm fine with missing my deadline

Legalizing Marijuana: Pros and Cons

Introduction, pros of legalizing marijuana, cons of legalizing marijuana.

The debate about whether marijuana should be legalized in the United States has been there for several years. The government drug regulatory policies are very inconsistent and regulatory interventions are normally based on 5 approaches. The 5 approaches which have been used by the government to regulate drugs include legalization, medicalization, harm reduction, decriminalization, and prohibition (Warner, 2001). Legalization and usage of marijuana within society will have both positive and negative impacts. The goal of this paper is to address the pros and cons of legalizing marijuana. To achieve this goal, the paper will be organized into the following sections: pros of legalizing marijuana, cons of legalizing marijuana, and the conclusions drawn from the two sections. Both sections will discuss the major issues of legalizing marijuana.

The proponent of marijuana legalization considers that they are many benefits of legalizing it compared to its demerits. One of the reasons why people are in favor of marijuana legalization is because the drug is considered harmless compared to other drugs such as tobacco and alcohol. The studies concerning the harmfulness of marijuana are normally confusing and in most cases they do not provide a concise explanation (Hallfors & Shereen, 2004). Most of the doctors around the world have in many instances concluded that marijuana is not destructive when used in moderation. A problem only occurs when this drug is abused and this is normally the case to all drugs when abused. There is also a study that indicates that marijuana is not addictive like other drugs.

Another major issue that has raised the case of marijuana legalization is its medicinal value. There are medical benefits which are associated with marijuana. It can be used to treat many diseases as well as solving other health issues. This indicates that legalizing it would assist many patients to have access to the drug as well as helping scientists in their researches in confirming the medicinal value of this drug. Some of the diseases that marijuana helps in their treatment include asthma, glaucoma, cancer chemotherapy, pains and muscle spasms, and AIDS-related wasting (Hallfors & Shereen, 2004).

The government can benefit from legalizing marijuana as it will act as a source of tax income. Most of the legalized drugs such as alcohol and tobacco contribute a lot of money to the government through taxation. Marijuana won’t be different and it would contribute a great amount of revenue through taxation because its legalization would allow people to conduct their business legally, thus they would not run away from tax tariffs. The government will, therefore, create an extra source of money that can be spent on governmental projects.

The proponents of marijuana legalization argue that limiting its usage is infringing someone’s freedom. Every person has a right to choose what to use or what not to. People who abuse other legal drugs such as alcohol do understand their harmful effects yet they are allowed to use them without any limit. Therefore, it is unfair to victimize marijuana use yet other drugs are allowed to be abused. Those who use it know about its harmful effects and it is their right to choose to use it or not.

Legalizing marijuana has been opposed in many regions all over the world. This normally happens due to the negative effects associated with its usage. A major reason why marijuana usage is prohibited is that it influences people to use other hard drugs (cocaine and heroin). This is a serious problem because it would be very dangerous when people start using hard drugs. People normally start taking marijuana which is considered “not harmful” and due to its excitement they end up experimenting harder stuff (SAMHSA, 2009).

Marijuana usage will lead to an increase in crimes such as careless driving, robbery, and rape cases. Many crimes are claimed to be committed by people who use marijuana. Careless driving is a major problem within society due to drunk driving. Drunk driving is very easy to detect but when someone is “high” on marijuana, it would be very difficult to detect unless the user has been smoking it in the vehicle. It is normally not possible to identify the smell of marijuana compared to that of alcohol. Lapse of judgment due to marijuana influence will also lead to crimes such as robbery and rape.

Legalizing marijuana would directly influence the probability of these drugs being used by kids. Marijuana can have disastrous effects on kids since their brains are developing. Using marijuana to developing brains is very dangerous and can cause permanent injuries to the brains (SAMHSA, 2009). The legalization of things directly influences their accessibility to kids. For instance, some kids as well as teenagers do have access to legal drugs such as alcohol and cigarettes although it is prohibited to sell these drugs to them. This means legalizing marijuana would increase the chances of it being used by children.

In conclusion, I would argue that marijuana should not be legalized but its usage should only be allowed in areas where it is beneficial. That is, medical practitioners should be allowed to carry out their researches on the benefits of marijuana but it should never be legalized. Its usage causes more problems compared to its benefit, thus it should only be allowed to be used in the medical field because this is the only place I would consider its usage has been beneficial. The question that will arise would be; how will it be used in the medical field when it is illegal? The government should devise ways of allowing only medical practitioners to use it.

Hallfors, D. & Shereen, K. (2004). “Sending the Wrong Message: Did Medical Marijuana Legalization in California Change Attitudes about and Use of Marijuana?”. Journal of Drug Issues , 751-770.

SAMHSA. (2009, January 8). The NSDUH Report: Marijuana Use and Perceived Risk among Adolescents. SAMHSA . Web.

Warner, K. (2001). “Legalizing Drugs: Lessons from (and about) Economics”. The Milbank Quarterly , 641-661.

Cite this paper

Select a referencing style

• Chicago (N-B)
• Chicago (A-D)

AssignZen. (2023, April 16). Legalizing Marijuana: Pros and Cons. https://assignzen.com/legalizing-marijuana-pros-and-cons/

"Legalizing Marijuana: Pros and Cons." AssignZen , 16 Apr. 2023, assignzen.com/legalizing-marijuana-pros-and-cons/.

1. AssignZen . "Legalizing Marijuana: Pros and Cons." April 16, 2023. https://assignzen.com/legalizing-marijuana-pros-and-cons/.

Bibliography

AssignZen . "Legalizing Marijuana: Pros and Cons." April 16, 2023. https://assignzen.com/legalizing-marijuana-pros-and-cons/.

AssignZen . 2023. "Legalizing Marijuana: Pros and Cons." April 16, 2023. https://assignzen.com/legalizing-marijuana-pros-and-cons/.

AssignZen . (2023) 'Legalizing Marijuana: Pros and Cons'. 16 April.

This report on Legalizing Marijuana: Pros and Cons was written and submitted by your fellow student. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly.

If you are the original creator of this paper and no longer wish to have it published on Asignzen, request the removal .

Home — Essay Samples — Law, Crime & Punishment — Marijuana Legalization — Unpacking the Debate: The Pros and Cons of Legalizing Marijuana

Unpacking The Debate: The Pros and Cons of Legalizing Marijuana

• Categories: Cannabis Marijuana Marijuana Legalization

About this sample

Words: 1686 |

Published: Mar 18, 2021

Words: 1686 | Pages: 4 | 9 min read

Bibliography

• https://www.canabomedicalclinic.com/10-common-conditions-medical-cannabis-prescribed-for/
• http://edition.cnn.com/2014/07/30/opinion/gitlow-marijuana-use/index.html
• https://www.marijuanabreak.com/marijuana-related-deaths
• https://www.iflscience.com/health-and-medicine/new-study-suggests-risks-marijuana-use-have-been-overestimated/
• https://www.theperspective.com/debates/living/should-we-legalize-marijuana/
• http://www.dailyhelmsman.com/online_features/opinion-should-marijuana-be-legal/article_c0c79d52-2e6e-11e9-8df2-6f1cc833c9f9.html
• https://www.debatingeurope.eu/focus/arguments-legalising-cannabis/#.XOhhMYhKjIU
• https://thesleepdoctor.com/2018/11/27/thinking-about-using-cannabis-for-sleep-here-are-some-things-to-know/?cn-reloaded=1
• https://www.huffpost.com/entry/marijuana-legalization_n_4151423?guccounter=1&guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZ29vZ2xlLmNvbS8&guce_referrer_sig=AQAAAFWwBQJd8aZZvM2CkRM4j_ahPD0AgNS8dV0urMpRILLvpG3DtwUdUX6cFlPsFejjN4K6JIKNo6J_ijqP3j5CMkPUlE2q1oonqdYNjrk_vXj-xaZF0pLDUbrURy4C6HBmAF4bhAkQk4FK_vkK2XPv2F6B18f5d8iRzp2wlhcgs-fv
• https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320984.php
• https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/addiction/recreational-marijuana-faq
• https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/research-reports/marijuana/what-marijuana
• https://elpais.com/elpais/2018/10/18/inenglish/1539863917_686561.html
• https://www.scmp.com/week-asia/society/article/2172531/green-gold-rush-thailand-malaysia-race-legalise-medical-marijuana
• https://www.bbc.com/news/world-46374191 (globally diverse source/for)
• http://www.businessworld.in/article/Why-Cannabis-Should-Be-Legalised-In-India/13-01-2019-166025/

Cite this Essay

Let us write you an essay from scratch

• 450+ experts on 30 subjects ready to help
• Custom essay delivered in as few as 3 hours

Get high-quality help

Dr Jacklynne

Verified writer

• Expert in: Nursing & Health Law, Crime & Punishment

+ 120 experts online

By clicking “Check Writers’ Offers”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy . We’ll occasionally send you promo and account related email

No need to pay just yet!

Related Essays

2 pages / 1128 words

3 pages / 1303 words

1 pages / 568 words

1 pages / 561 words

Remember! This is just a sample.

You can get your custom paper by one of our expert writers.

121 writers online

Still can’t find what you need?

Browse our vast selection of original essay samples, each expertly formatted and styled

Related Essays on Marijuana Legalization

The debate over the legalization of weed is a contentious and multifaceted issue, with implications for medicine, economics, ethics, and society. In this essay on whether weed should be legalized, we will explore the potential [...]

The social impact of marijuana legalization is complex and multifaceted. It extends beyond the realms of public health and the economy. Legalization can lead to reduced stigma surrounding marijuana use, improved social equity, [...]

The debate over the dangers of Marijuana has been a dominant topic of conversation for a long time. Unfortunately, many individuals have a problem accepting the plant’s demonstrated medicinal effects. Opinions on medical [...]

The debate surrounding the legalization of medical marijuana has been a contentious and evolving issue in many countries around the world. While it remains illegal in some places, an increasing number of regions are recognizing [...]

“There are two sides to every story, and the truth usually lies somewhere in the middle.” – Jean Gati There is the “War on Drugs” on one side and Marijuana Legalization as a response to the failures of this war. The binge of [...]

Pot, grass, dope, Mary Jane, boom, 420, ganja, weed. Formally known as Cannabis it is classified as a cannabinoid drug of which should be legalized for recreational use inside the democracy of Australia. The purpose of speaking [...]

Related Topics

By clicking “Send”, you agree to our Terms of service and Privacy statement . We will occasionally send you account related emails.

Where do you want us to send this sample?

By clicking “Continue”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy.

Be careful. This essay is not unique

This essay was donated by a student and is likely to have been used and submitted before

Download this Sample

Free samples may contain mistakes and not unique parts

Sorry, we could not paraphrase this essay. Our professional writers can rewrite it and get you a unique paper.

Please check your inbox.

We can write you a custom essay that will follow your exact instructions and meet the deadlines. Let's fix your grades together!

Get Your Personalized Essay in 3 Hours or Less!

We use cookies to personalyze your web-site experience. By continuing we’ll assume you board with our cookie policy .

• Instructions Followed To The Letter
• Deadlines Met At Every Stage
• Unique And Plagiarism Free