As the use of marijuana becomes more accepted throughout the United States, more and more areas are legalizing the use of the substance for a wide range of reasons. The majority of Americans believe that marijuana should be regulated along with tobacco and alcohol, and not be a criminal activity any longer. With acceptance for the use of marijuana on the rise, marijuana legalization is going to continue to spread. The hope is that with decriminalizing the use of marijuana, people can gain the valuable benefits the substance has been shown to have for pain, anxiety, depression, and overall wellness for individuals who are struggling. Once marijuana is legalized, citizens can use the substance without fear of getting into legal trouble.
Marijuana Legalization and the West Coast
Washington, Oregon, California and Nevada have all legalized the use of marijuana, making the west coast the largest combined area where you can purchase and use marijuana for recreational purposes. It's also legal in Colorado, Alaska, Illinois and Michigan, bringing jobs to these areas and reducing the amount of police hours needed to deal with potential offenders. When marijuana is legalized, it is taxed and regulated just like alcohol and tobacco, providing income for the state and further resources for those who wish to use marijuana without being a criminal.
Product Testing and Marijuana Legalization
How the marijuana is grown, quality testing and regulations are going to help bring better products to the consumer at large. With legalization comes legal growing instead of relying on illicit growers trying to make money. When marijuana is legalized, the conditions under which the product is grown are going to be better. The use of chemicals is monitored, and the product is tested for purity. For those looking to use marijuana for medical purposes, the type of product they purchase and the quality are going to be very important.
Massachusetts, Vermont and Maine
New England is also becoming more tolerant of the legalization of marijuana, and Massachusetts, Vermont, and Maine have all legalized the use. The hope is that this will improve the safety of products, increase tax revenue, and support job growth in the agricultural industry. With legalization spreading, states are trying to work through the process of regulating the use and production of marijuana.
As marijuana use continues to spread, the product will become a regulated, more safe product to use. With tax revenue gained from the sale and distribution of marijuana products, the state gains valuable income.
