Many people worry that decriminalizing marijuana would have negative impacts on the legal system. However, that is not necessarily the case.
In fact, decriminalizing marijuana would have many positive effects. And there is no evidence that decriminalizing marijuana would lead to an increase in crime rates.
In this article, we’ll explore the impact that decriminalizing marijuana has on crime rates and on society in general.
1. Less Drug Crime
If marijuana is decriminalized, there would be fewer marijuana-related crimes.
This seems pretty obvious, but it’s an often overlooked factor when it comes to the legalization of marijuana.
Currently, there are a lot of fines related to marijuana consumption. Some states have very heavy penalties for cannabis possession.
Most of these laws are ridiculous. Drug-related sentences are often worse than sentences for violent crimes. This has many negative consequences.
Many people think that marijuana is a gateway drug for heavier drugs. That has not been proven to be the case.
Legalizing marijuana would not lead to an increase in consumption of harder drugs. Nor would it mean that harder drugs would become legal.
There is no reason to worry that decriminalizing marijuana would lead to excessive drug consumption.
2. Safer Usage
It’s safer to use legal marijuana.
Not only do you not have to worry about being caught, but the quality is much better. Licensed dispensaries undergo frequent control checks. So, if you’re in a state that has legalized marijuana, you should get a MA medical marijuana card to ensure you are purchasing your marijuana from a reputable source.
Unfortunately, some states make it very difficult to access legal marijuana. Texas is one of those. Here is some information on the legal status of cannabis in Texas.
Most states have only legalized cannabis for medical purposes. Some states make it easier than others to get a medical marijuana card.
Other states, like Colorado, have legalized marijuana for recreational use as well. These states have licensed dispensaries with higher quality products.
When you buy anything from the street, you never know what you’re going to get. This could be very dangerous. Legalizing marijuana would ensure that people don’t consume laced or low-quality products.
People are also more likely to consume marijuana in a safe environment when it is legal. They are less likely to drive high or consume in unsafe places.
When people feel safe about what they are consuming, they are more likely to enjoy themselves, too. Your mindset when consuming cannabis affects the outcome. If you are worried, you’re more likely to have a bad high.
3. Tax Laws
The state is missing out on a good taxation opportunity.
When consumers purchase cannabis illegally, there is no tax income.
Almost every other product is taxed. Alcohol, for instance, has a very high tax level. Tax laws differ from state to state.
Decriminalizing marijuana would probably result in a sales tax on cannabis. Consumers might complain about the higher price, but it’s a trade-off for a better and safer product.
Illegal drug dealers don’t pay any money in taxes. Dispensaries, however, have to pay taxes just like everyone else.
Decriminalizing marijuana would reduce rates of tax evasion.
4. Lower Crime Rates
Obviously, drug-related crimes would lower.
However, decriminalizing marijuana would result in a reduction of other forms of crime as well. For starters, there would be a smaller black market.
That means there would be less problems with gang violence. Here is some information on crime rates in the U.S.
The U.S. surprisingly has a crime rate compared with other developed countries. There are many reasons for this, but part of it is the legal system.
Other countries do not have long sentences for drug-related crimes. They also focus more on rehabilitation than punishment.
Punishing drug offenders does not help people reintegrate into society.
5. Better Lifestyle
Overall, decriminalizing marijuana would lead to a better lifestyle.
There would be less crime, and people would be able to enjoy themselves a bit more. It’s been proven that there are many positive benefits associated with cannabis consumption.
Marijuana can help treat and prevent mental health issues. For people suffering from anxiety and depression, cannabis could be the solution.
Many patients turn instead to prescription medication, which can be addictive and dangerous.
Decriminalizing marijuana gives people the chance to make their own decisions about their bodies.
Conclusion
There is no reason why marijuana should not be decriminalized. The benefits outweigh any negative consequences.