Prohibition of Marijuana

This past week while researching the website PollingReport.com I came across an article with great statistics concerning the use of illegal drugs and Americans opinions. What I took away was the amount of growing Americans who would be in favor of the legalization of marijuana if a tax was implemented on it. Still, a solid 55% oppose the overall legalization of the drugs. With the argument of legalizing marijuana brings the argument of punishment if one if found in possession of the drug. 32% of those polled feel that if marijuana was in fact legalized it would reduce the amount of current crime. This can be compared to when alcohol was made illegal during Prohibition (1920-1933) the amount of criminal activity skyrocketed. Street gangs and bootleggers became extremely wealth all because of the crazy idea by the government to ban alcohol. It makes one think whether someday the same may be said about marijuana. With constant drug wars being fought in Mexico and the murder rate growing, something must be done in regards to this serious issue. Could the legalization of this "drug" potentially reduce crime and make America and the rest of the world a safer place? Time will tell.

The number continues to grow. . .

A recent survey done by Rasmussen Reports shows that almost half of Americans (43%) now say that are in favor of the legalization of Marijuana. Although a strong 42% still favor Marijuana remaining illegal, it is fascinating to see how quickly Americans are jumping on the "bandwagon" of legalizing the drug. From February, 2010, to July 2010, the number rose 3%. This may not sound substantial, but in context to the number of citizens in this country it shows a large shift. Most of the respondents argue that the legalziation of marijuana should be followed in part by a strong governmental tax. Forty percent (40%) of Adults admit to smoking marijuana at some time in their lives, but 55% say they have never tried it. 61% of those polled who have tried marijuana agree with the legalizing the drug. This newest survey goes to show how quickly the public's opinion is changing on the topic on marijuana. Everyday more and more Americans are realizing the amount the country could be making on the taxation of this drug. As the percentage of people in support of legalization continues to grow, it may just be a matter of time before legalization becomes a reality.