In the United States there are many debated arguments whether marijuana should be legalized or not. Marijuana has been used for centuries and is the most common drug used. It is used for recreational purposes and medical purposes. Marijuana has many pros and cons, but the advantages outweigh the disadvantages. The U.S government spends nearly $10 billion a year to keep marijuana out of the hands of individuals (Johannigman, & Eschiti, 2013). Marijuana is not any more harmful than drinking alcohol as long as an individual uses it in moderation. Cigarettes are legal as well as alcoholic beverages. Alcohol can cause liver problems, and cigarette smoking can cause cancer. The only difference between marijuana, alcohol, and cigarettes is marijuana is not legal in most states (Pro's of Marijuana Legalization, n.d). Prior to 1957 marijuana was prescribed for medical use, and it was outlawed in 1957. Today marijuana is considered a crime and frowned upon by many, and is considered a schedule 1 drug by the drug enforcement agency. …show more content…
In order to purchase marijuana in the state you must be 21 years or older. Where marijuana is legal people can be prescribed it such as: cancer patients going through chemo, because it decreases vomiting and nausea. If marijuana was to be legal in all states the government can tax the sale of it, and this would create more revenue for the government. Instead of marijuana seen as a problem it needs to be looked at as being a good thing. It helps cancer patients by reducing the side effects of chemotherapy (Johannigman, & Eschiti, 2013). When people have aides they have a loss of appetite, so the use of marijuana would help increase their appetite. It can relieve depression and anxiety. Marijuana is not any more harmful than