Over the past decade, the evolution of attitudes toward cannabis has been quite extraordinary. Historical perceptions of marijuana as a ‘gateway drug’ have gradually given way to an appreciation for its vast medicinal benefits and its potential to generate significant tax revenue. A multitude of states have adopted more relaxed cannabis policies and medical cannabis programs, igniting an ongoing debate over the merits and pitfalls of legalization.
Cannabis legalization is often discussed in three main categories: Decriminalization, medical-use legalization, and recreational-use legalization. Decriminalization essentially removes criminal penalties for possession of small amounts of marijuana, but it doesn’t necessarily make cannabis legal nor does it create a regulated cannabis industry. States with decriminalization laws have a criminal justice approach that punishes trafficking and sales, but not individual possessions.
On the other hand, medical cannabis programs allow patients with certain diagnoses to use marijuana as part of their treatment plans. These programs have seen widespread support, and 36 states have enacted comprehensive, publicly available medical marijuana/cannabis programs according to the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL).
However, the most striking shift in cannabis policy has occurred with the rise of recreational use laws. Currently, recreational marijuana is legal in approximately 18 states, with some restrictions. Such policies have spurred a booming cannabis industry, which extends beyond the plant itself to various byproducts and ancillary sectors.
Cannabis legalization’s greatest strength is arguably its potential for social justice. Considerable numbers of people are arrested for marijuana possession each year, with a disproportionate impact on communities of color. Reports from the ACLU have shown a significant racial bias in cannabis arrests, despite similar usage rates across different racial groups. By legalizing and regulating cannabis, states have the opportunity to lessen this disparity.
The burgeoning cannabis industry also promises a significant boost to the economy. Its potential to generate tax revenue is undeniable. It’s estimated that the legal cannabis market in the US could create over $130 billion in federal tax revenue and 1.6 million jobs by 2025 according to a report by New Frontier Data.
Yet, many are quick to point out the difficulties in actualizing this potential, largely because of the complex state regulations governing the cannabis industry and the sustained federal prohibition of the drug. These disjointed laws complicate the process of sales, impede business growth, and can often confuse consumers.
Beyond the world of ‘weed’ and ‘pot’, there is also the significant matter of hemp legalization. Hemp, unlike its THC-rich cousin, is used for a plethora of industrial applications, from textiles to construction materials. Unburdened by the stigma associated with marijuana, hemp was federally legalized in 2018 through the Farm Bill, bringing a breath of potential for the agriculture industry.
The legalization of cannabis, in all its forms, has the potential to bring significant change. It involves a balance between potential benefits such as social justice and tax revenues, and potential risks associated with the problems of regulation and federal prohibition. As the ‘green wave’ of cannabis legalization continues to sweep across the nation, only time will tell how these issues will be resolved. But one thing’s for sure, the tide has decidedly turned.
