Proposition 64: Legalization Analysis

As the sun began to rise, on the morning of November 9, 2016, most Californians awoke with a new profound sense of freedom to get high. For the simple reason that, the day before, most citizens throughout California voted yes on Proposition 64, which legalized recreational marijuana for adults over 21 years of age. However, I voted no to legalize recreational marijuana. This was due to my values and faith, but most importantly for the simple reason that, it will negatively impact law enforcement agencies, as well as, communities. Secondly, studies have indicated that using marijuana on a regular basis can affect a person both mentally and physically. Nevertheless, the state of California had a different opinion. They believe that passing Proposition 64 will monetarily help California and enhance regulations throughout …show more content…
In an article on the CNBC website, it states that “Drug-impaired driving will increase if marijuana is legalized.” They also indicated that “In a study of fatally injured drivers in Washington State, 12.7 percent tested positive for marijuana and that more than a quarter of all drivers (26.9 %) were seriously injured while driving under the influence of marijuana”. Ultimately, until a device is created to test the amount of THC in a person under the influence there will be an increase in accidents and deaths on our highways. In addition, due to the legalization of marijuana, it would bring an upsurge of unwanted vagrants into our state, which in turn, will increase the crime rate in our communities. Furthermore, recidivism rates will rise, adding to the already copious overcrowding in prisons and county