Legalization is the process of removing a legal prohibition against something that is currently not legal. One consumption of this subject is illegal drugs. Any Cannabis product, medical included, was outlawed in the year 1970.
Marijuana, like Heroin and LSD (Lysergic Acid Diethylamide) was classified as a Schedule 1 drug, meaning that it is not currently accepted for medical use because it has a high potential for abuse. With this classification, Marijuana automatically became illegal under federal law. Marijuana shouldn’t be considered a ‘ big deal’ as it is being made into a bigger issue than it already is. Many states have already legalized Marijuana for medical use, though only four have fully legalized it, and one of these states is Oregon. Their law states that adults who are 21 years and older can participate in the recreational use of Marijuana in their homes or on private property. I think having to use an I.D. to purchase, as is required. The law does require that Marijuana cannot be used in or around public places.
I think medical use and private use should not be something contentious, but trying to prevent the public use of the drug does pose problems. Although Marijuana has some very obvious, adverse effects, it also has many less apparent benefits. Cannabis smokers often report using the drug to relax and relieve emotional stress. Marijuana has been proven to ease anxiety, help relieve chronic pain, and aid those with epilepsy in their everyday life. It is also a safer choice than many Opioids. Researchers have found that Cannabis might be able to help those recovering from an Opioid addiction. One of the biggest benefits of THC and other Cannabinoids is that they can help us with certain cancer cells by destroying them.
As with any choice, there is always a negative path that can be chosen. Not everyone has pleasant experiences with Cannabis, finding the euphoric and relaxing feelings lacking or absent. In some cases, it can even aggravate anxiety. People report effects such as lack of motivation, confused speech, difficulty thinking, paranoia, trouble sleeping, and/or lack of personal hygiene. It also poses a risk during pregnancy and increases one’s risk of a heart attack. The biggest argument against its use is the possibility of it becoming the Gateway drug to other substances, legal or otherwise.
The biggest concern about legalizing Marijuana here in Idaho is the higher possibility of citizens being exposed to drug trafficking. Idaho has been a target for a drug cartel under the name Jalisco for some time. The Jalisco Cartel is one of the central cartels responsible for the influx of Methamphetamine and Fentanyl into our communities for recent busts. Though Marijuana has not been legalized, Idahoan adults, and some minors, are still finding ways to obtain and use it. I believe that the bigger concern our state should be focusing on is the youth. Teenagers here in Idaho Falls are somehow finding ways to use and abuse this substance. The excuse that many make is that they have a medical need for the drug but it is still minors under the age of 21 using it. Vapes and alcohol, and many other substances are statistically being used by more minors than adults. The main concern with the youth is that if Marijuana does become legalized, would there have to be stricter restrictions?
The argument for Marijuana legalization has its twists and turns but I believe the state should consider legalizing it, even if only for medical usage. If the law passes we also need to make sure we are protecting the ones that need it. It should only be adults using it but I believe that Idaho can look to Oregon to help them in the effort. In reality, if minors and many irresponsible adults continue to abuse it, Marijuana may never be legalized.
