Keaton Marin
November 13, 2012 Marijuana: Opening New Possibilities for the Growth of the United States
Cannabis, more commonly known as marijuana, is a plant that is grown for its recreational and medical effects. Marijuana was mostly used by individuals who were active in the counter culture movement which is better known as the hippie movement in the United States. Today, while marijuana has been known to have positive medical purpose, it is a federally illegal drug. Due to the drug’s growing fan base, it would not be a surprise if it were to become legalized sooner rather than later. Marijuana should become federally recognized as legal because of its medical effects, possibility for economic prosperity, and harmlessness. Not all People use marijuana just to get high. A growing number of citizens smoke cannabis because it helps with sleeping, headaches, and insomnia. Studies at University of California Center for Medicinal Cannabis Research indicate that inhaling marijuana smoke can lead to positive medical effects for patients that have serious illnesses. For example, cancer patients have been known to experience a great reduction in neuropathic pain after taking the drug (norml.org). Commoners without serious health problems smoke marijuana to alleviate eye irritation and anxiety. With such a large percent of the population that takes the drug illegally, marijuana is bound to benefit the government as well that the people. By legalizing marijuana for both medical and recreational use, the government can regulate the buying and selling of the product. Imposing a new and higher tax on the drug will open a doorway to broad possibilities for a country in an economic recession. Legalizing the drug to be bought, sold and taxed would provide the country with a whole new rejuvenated market that contains a consistently increasing rate of demand. The California