In this podcast, we discuss the pros and cons of legalising the recreational use of marijuana.
We learn that:
- Despite the economic and taxation lift that is evident in the sale of marijuana, the health costs far outweigh the benefits.
- The data supporting decreased marijuana use among teens due to legalisation is thin. Marijuana use is highest in states that have legalised its recreational use.
- Although there is evidence that the violent crime rate may be lower in states where marijuana is legal, it brings with it dire mental health consequences, the full weight of which have not been measured.
- Although the public overwhelmingly supports legalisation of marijuana, all major public health associations oppose it, seeing it as a dangerous drug and a menace to our people.
- We do not yet understand the long-term consequences of prolonged marijuana use. This author sides with the clinical evidence and opposes further legalisation.
- Where I want to see a let-up is in the unnecessarily harsh prosecution and conviction of citizens who happen to possess a small amount of marijuana.