Cannabis, otherwise referred to as marijuana, weed, or hemp, is a mind altering substance that dates back to ancient times and is still used today. In the United States, cannabis has been illegal since 1970, but today, evidence points to the benefits of ending the marijuana prohibition. Research studies continue to show that marijuana has positive health effects and that the effects of the drug are far less dangerous than other legal drugs such as alcohol and tobacco. The legalization of marijuana across the nation could positively benefit our health, free up our prisons, and generate tax revenue for the federal government.
Marijuana is a plant that has been used since ancient times. Dating back to 2737 B.C., the plant was described in a medical reference in China. The plant spread from China to India, eventually making it’s way to Europe in 500 A.D.. In 1545, the Spaniards brought marijuana to the new world. Starting in Jamestown, it became one of the most abundant commercial crops, along with tobacco (History of Marijuana). Until 1890, hemp dominated the market but was replaced by cotton as a major cash crop. Around this time, researchers found and studied the medicinal …show more content…
If marijuana laws were reformed today as alcohol laws were reformed in 1923, citizens would pay less per year to fund those imprisoned for nonviolent crimes. Legalization would create millions of jobs and generate a substantial amount of tax revenue. Americans in need of medicine would turn towards marijuana as a cheaper alternative to over the counter medicines, and those diagnosed with diseases such as glaucoma could finally receive treatment. Big drug dealers would not be able to compete with state regulated prices so they would be forced to find jobs. This would help rid the streets of criminals and give more time for drug enforcement agencies to focus on hard drug users, making the US a safer
Marijuana is a plant that has been used since ancient times. Dating back to 2737 B.C., the plant was described in a medical reference in China. The plant spread from China to India, eventually making it’s way to Europe in 500 A.D.. In 1545, the Spaniards brought marijuana to the new world. Starting in Jamestown, it became one of the most abundant commercial crops, along with tobacco (History of Marijuana). Until 1890, hemp dominated the market but was replaced by cotton as a major cash crop. Around this time, researchers found and studied the medicinal …show more content…
If marijuana laws were reformed today as alcohol laws were reformed in 1923, citizens would pay less per year to fund those imprisoned for nonviolent crimes. Legalization would create millions of jobs and generate a substantial amount of tax revenue. Americans in need of medicine would turn towards marijuana as a cheaper alternative to over the counter medicines, and those diagnosed with diseases such as glaucoma could finally receive treatment. Big drug dealers would not be able to compete with state regulated prices so they would be forced to find jobs. This would help rid the streets of criminals and give more time for drug enforcement agencies to focus on hard drug users, making the US a safer