There are so many aspects in the debate about legalizing marijuana, and one question that naturally pops up is, has it worked in Colorado? What have the consequences been? Since it’s been such a short time in since marijuana became available recreationally in Colorado in 2012, there isn’t much data (none that shows long-term effects). So it’s up to policy makers and voters to predict the future when they’re voting yes or no on marijuana legalization.
Is California next?
Will California legalize marijuana for recreational use? The debate is certainly on, and there are strong opinions on both sides of the aisle. So far, only 3 states have legalized it, according to NPR—Colorado, Washington, and most recently, Alaska. Oregon has legalized it as well, though the law won’t take affect until July of this year. Approval for recreational use of marijuana will likely be on voter ballot initiatives in the 2016 presidential election in California, Arizona, Maine, Massachusetts, Nevada, and possibly other states. A Gallup poll shows that a majority of Americans approve of legalization—51%, though a year ago it was 58%. That’s not an overwhelming majority, so the debate is certainly firing up in an effort to sway voters for approval or disapproval.
Pros of Approval
Those who advocate for approval see November 8, 2016 as the ideal time to pass legalization initiatives because it will be a presidential election, so more people will vote, and the millennial generation, which often leans left, is growing up and becoming more politically active. With a proper regulatory frame work and government policies in place, supporters predict that there will be no need for the black market sale of marijuana, keeping users more safe and away from more serious drugs. A recent study found that stoned drivers are much less accident-prone than drunk drivers, indicating that it’s likely not nearly as dangerous as alcohol, which is perfectly legal for anyone over 21. Advocates also point out that in countries such as Portugal and the Netherlands, where marijuana is already readily available for recreational use, there aren’t exorbitant rates of use, indicating that just because it’s available, it doesn’t mean everyone will start using it.
Cons of Approval
Those who oppose legalization cite the lack of long-term data on the effects of legalization in other states, and are concerned about kids, teens, and young adults becoming heavy marijuana users as a result of increased marketing campaigns as well as government approval. There are also concerns about accidental poisoning by marijuana of young kids and pets, especially because marijuana is often baked into goods such as brownies, cookies, and other appealing food. There have been very few conclusive studies about the long-term psychological and physiological effects of marijuana use, and some worry about marijuana’s potential effects on brain development and other consequences.
Speak Up Now and Cast Your Vote in November 2016
Whether you approve or disapprove of the legalization of marijuana recreational use in California, it’s time to speak up now. Boatloads of money are already being spent to sway your vote, but do some research and decide for yourself. The choice is up to you, your family, friends, and neighbors—choose wisely.
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