Legal vs Decriminalized: The Debate Behind Cannabis Policy

The legalization of cannabis is an ongoing debate in the United States, but it’s not just America who wants to know what is right for their country. There are many countries that have different views on whether or not they should legalize cannabis. The opinions range from decriminalized to legalize and there are various reasons behind each opinion. This article will explore these opinions by discussing the legal vs decriminalized debate when it comes to cannabis policy.

When it comes to cannabis policy, the legal vs decriminalized debate is a hot topic. Countries that have legalized cannabis have done so for various reasons such as taxation and to reduce crime rates.

Decriminalization

Decriminalization means that personal use of cannabis is still illegal, but there is no punishment or criminal record for possession. Some countries believe that decriminalization is the best way to handle cannabis because it does not require any change in legislation. This means that people are still able to be arrested and punished for using cannabis, but it is not a criminal offense.

Advocates of decriminalization argue that it is the most effective way to reduce crime rates and allow police resources to be used elsewhere. They also argue that it is a more humane way to deal with people who use cannabis.

Detractors of decriminalization argue that it does not do enough to address the issue of cannabis use. They believe that decriminalization sends the message that using cannabis is okay when many people believe it is not. Additionally, they argue that decriminalization can lead to more dangerous drug use including hard drugs.

Legalization

Countries that have legalized cannabis do so because they believe it is appropriate for their citizens. These countries typically set up specific guidelines and restrictions for the sale, purchase, production, and consumption of cannabis within their country’s borders. Some examples are licenses for businesses selling cannabis or rules about who can consume cannabis and where.

Some states in the United States, for example, have legalized cannabis for recreational use, including Alaska, California, Colorado, Illinois, and Washington, among others. Additionally, many states, like Texas, have legalized cannabis solely for medical use. In Texas, patients with qualifying conditions, such as chronic pain or epilepsy, must obtain a Texas medical marijuana card to access medical cannabis products legally. 

Advocates of legalization argue that it is the best way to protect citizens from the dangers of using cannabis. They believe that by legalizing cannabis, countries can regulate its use and make sure that people are using a safe product. Additionally, they believe that legalization will bring in tax revenue which can be used to fund other programs.

Detractors of legalization argue that it is too risky to legalize cannabis. They believe that the social and health risks are too high and that countries should not take the chance. Additionally, they argue that legalizing cannabis will lead to an increase in crime rates as well as addiction rates.

Wrapping Up

Decriminalized vs Legal is a debate that has been going on for decades. While there are many points to consider, the most important difference between the two is how they affect public safety.

Decriminalization of cannabis means that possession and use of marijuana would be legal but not regulated or taxed like alcohol or tobacco. This type of policy does not legalize production, distribution, or sale of the product which leads to an increase in crime related to those activities because it’s all done illegally by groups who don’t care about public safety. Legalizing marijuana means regulating it similarly to alcohol—with restrictions on age limits, where you can buy it and consume it, along with penalties for driving under its influence. It also provides funding through taxes for public services, like education and healthcare. The evidence is clear that regulating cannabis results in less crime, fewer hospitalizations, and improved economic outcomes. Voters are starting to see this too with more states legalizing marijuana in some form every year. It’s time for the federal government to catch up so we can start seeing these benefits nationwide.