DEBATE PREP:
HOW HAS INTERSTATE COMMERCE BECOME THE DECIDING FACTOR IN MANY SOCIAL ISSUES OF OUR MODERN POLITICAL DEBATE?
CBS NEWS 60 MINUTES REPORT ON MEDICAL MARIJUANA?
http://www.cbsnews.com/video/watch/?id=50133577nhttp://www.cbsnews.com/video/watch/?id=50133577n
Watch the above video and offer your opinion regarding the Federal government's role in Medical Marijuana. Consider the following ideas?
a) Interstate Commerce and expanding Federal power
b) Use of Medical Marijuana as a "front" for illegal activities
c) The political reality of an elected official claiming to be against drugs but for medical marijuana
d) Corporate interests vs. individual interests
Watch the video and offer your opinion bearing some of the issues I've listed above in mind. Day 1 will debate this issue in class on Thursday. Day 2 will debate this issue in class on Friday.
ReplyDeleteIn all, I find that the removal of marijuana from the most-dangerous drugs list would in no way harm our nation. If the government allows for the carefully monitored distribution of marijuana for medical purposes, our economy would experience an increase in revenue as described in Colorado's case. Although I feel that medical marijuana has a purpose for those if is prescribed for by a doctor, I do find that the legalization would lead to an increase in interstate drug dealing. If the dispensing of such substances was monitored by the government (i.e. the checking of cards and the need for a prescription from your doctor), many individuals would prosper. For some, including myself, I find that the use of marijuana for medical reasons is completely legitimate and shouldn't be deemed a federal crime, but the government would be risking the commencement of more illegal marijuana activities.
ReplyDeleteThe fact that, as of when I started typing this, nobody else has submitted a response makes me start thinking this isn't a blog comment homwork but actually something to print out and debate.
ReplyDeleteThe only way I can think of medical marijuana being related to interstate commerce is if it were to be FDA regulated, which it isn't, or if congress were to pass a resolution against Colorado or any other state allowing medical marijuana. As long as people aren't crossing state lines to buy and sell it, there really isn't much the federal government can do except maybe send agents on drug raids. Based on how openly people sell marijuana, nobody is very concerned about that.
I don't think medical marijuna is a forefront for other illegal activites. Most of it has to be grown indoors on premises, so there isn't much room for drug cartels. Doctor involvement can probably help avoid addiction problems. The only illegal drug issue would be if people like to do drugs because it's illegal, and switch from marijuana to other things.
A politican would claim to be for medical marijuana but against other drugs because that's how to get votes. Being for medical marijuana would convince those in favor of decriminalizing pot. It would also earn support from those who have relatives with medical conditions that might benefit from it, and those who have conditions themselves. At the same time, being against other drugs will make the canidate seem favorable to those who are against drug use. By appealing to both sides, the candidate is favorable to everybody, or at least more people.
A corporation interested in medical marijuana is going to be intersted in making the most profit possible. An individual is going to want the safest, most effective version for the lowest price.
I agree with Ryan concerning the removal of marijuana from the most dangerous drugs list. The medical benefits have been proven and the federal government has already shown that they have no interest in wasting resources by arresting and prosecuting those who follow state laws. I believe that the taxation of medical marijuana could generate enormous tax revenues for local and federal governments, similar to the revenue generate by taxes on tobacco products. However, I also believe that the federal legalization of medical marijuana will lead to better regulations and a decrease in interstate drug dealing. This legalization would also make it safer to buy marijuana for those interested in its medical purposes. The current system the government employs is not effective, as stated by the Colorado lawyer in the video. The government doesn't have the resources to prosecute those who sell marijuana illegally. This situation is similar to Prohibition, when speakeasies thrived even though the sale of alcohol was illegal. The legalization of medical marijuana would benefit the government, who would gain large tax revenues, various corporations, who would make profits by selling and growing the marijuana, and individuals prescribed the drug by a doctor, would receive its benefits while avoiding illegal and possibly unsafe use of marijuana.
ReplyDeleteI firmly agree with Katie's views on the issue at hand. As much as the federal government disapproves, people are going to buy marijuana. If the federal government legalizes it throughout the country, they would be able to tax the product. The taxation would yield a drastically high revenue; just look at California and Colorado. Not only do the states' governments gain an income, the growers (farmers?), transporters, distributors, sellers, as well as the doctors prescribing it would make a great profit. When some states declare medical marijuana legal or illegal, it creates a division amongst us. People would turn to illegal activities in order to sneak it into a state. If all states allowed medical marijuana, thee would be no need to illegally smuggle. Instead of wasting millions by arresting people caught smoking, legalizing medical marijuana would allow for more effort to be placed into stopping "real" crimes: murders, assaults, robberies, et al.
ReplyDelete-Megan Byrne
The Federal Government is caught in a very tricky situation in regards to medical marijuana. In Colorado, the state constitution allows for the medical marijuana business to exist; it is a private enterprise that is even taxed by the state government. The state's constitution does come with several stipulations: dispensers can only sell to people who show demonstrated need for marijuana (through a doctor's permission) and every liscensed dispensary must grow at least 70% of its crop. However, federal laws still classify marijuana as one of the most dangerous drugs - even more dangerous than cocaine and methamphetamine. Currently, the government is not prosecuting the dispensaries in Colorado and other states (that are breaking federal law by selling medical marijuana) because the revenues from the sales of marijuana are tremendous. The government's primary concern is to ensure that no interstate transactions of illegal drugs occur.
ReplyDeleteThe government's role in the lives of individuals is extremely prominent in regards to medical marijuana. It is plausible that a politician can run for election vehemently declaring drugs as evil while simultaneously promoting and even endorsing the use of medical marijuana. Marijuana does have its uses in the medical world so if a patient needs to use it, they should not be denied their medication by government regulations. However, the process of buying medical marijuana should be heavily regulated by state officials to ensure that illegal activity is kept at a minimum (or eradicated). I agree with Katie that the medical marijuana situation is similar to Prohibition; however, marijuana is not comparable to alcohol because marijuana has proven benefits in the treatment of clinical applications while alcohol has proven detriments to humans.
I agree with Ryan and Katie that marijuana should be removed from the most-dangerous drugs list and that the federal government should legalize medical marijuana. I also agree with Tim that if an ill person needs marijuana they should be able to use it without worrying that it is against federal law. If the federal government legalized medical marijuana and regulated it just as closely as state governments are doing now their concern about interstate commerce would not be relevant. I feel that the federal government has to make up their mind. If the government wants to keep marijuana on the most-dangerous drugs list and say that it cannot be used for even medical purposes then they need to step into the states that currently allow it. The government cannot act like they do not know what is going on and ignore the issue just because the tax on the sale of medical marijuana creates a large revenue stream. If the government wants to keep allowing certain states to use it they should just make it available to every state so that everyone can profit as a result. Not only would federal legalization of the sale of medical marijuana help the patients who need it, but it would also, as stated in the video, benefit the economy by providing jobs for electric contractors, hvac companies, and would lease out thousands of square feet currently not being used.
ReplyDeleteI agree with those that said the legalization of medical marijuana would cause the United States no harm. As proved by numerous studies, marijuana, when prescribed by a doctor, can be an effective pain reliever. The legalization of the drug for medicinal purposes would increase government revenue due to taxes that could be imposed while also hopefully putting an end to its illegal market. The federal laws at the moment seem to be useless, as they contradict the state's laws that allow for the selling of the drug. As Jane mentioned, the legalization of marijuana on a federal level would have many benefits, more jobs, more government revenue and the ability for patients with certain ailments to have legal access to the drug. All in all, I believe that there are hardly any negative consequences that would follow its legalization. The drug is already being sold illegally, so wouldn't creating legal dispensaries help eradicate the crime?
ReplyDeleteI believe that marijuana has valid medicinal purposes, and should therefore be taken off the most-dangerous drug list like Ryan said. If the product can be effectively regulated, it will create a large amount of tax revenue for both state and federal government. Having strict regulation would also prevent dispensaries from becoming fronts for drug dealers, and help them become legitimate businesses like Dixie, the "edibles" manufacturer in the video. For a politician, supporting medical marijuana but being opposed to other drugs is not out of the question in certain states. For example, in Colorado a large portion of the population supports medical marijuana. The topic would need to be introduced gradually into politics and government, but the popularity of medical marijuana is growing among the public.
ReplyDeleteNo matter what position the federal government government takes, there will still be marijuana users. If legalized for medicinal purposes the amount of crime associated with the drug would decrease. If this issue was evidently detrimental to society, the federal government would have intervened by now and taken action against these states for violating federal law, rather than ignoring them.
Federal power has clearly exceeded merely regulating interstate trade in this scenario. The feds are *able* to prosecute people and businesses in Colorado who are violating federal law despite Colorado's amendments which doesn't have a whole lot to do with interstate commerce and a lot more to do with control. The political cartoon suggests that this is what the feds are really after in keeping medical marijuana usage illegal, but in reality it shouldn't matter to the federal government what kind of supplement medical patients use if that supplement has proven effects and is prescribed. The idea that medical marijuana as a "front" for illegal activities could very well be proven true, but illegal activity would occur regardless of whether or not medical marijuana is legal or illegal to use. Claiming to be against drugs but for medical marijuana is a kind of middle ground that politicians could use as Tim suggested. Given that real money has been invested into a medical marijuana industry means its only a matter of time before it becomes an accepted practice in the pro-business U.S. Individuals will abuse the system just like with prescription pills and that is just a sad reality. I feel that medical marijuana might actually help people going through intense treatment, whether there are real effects or not. I don't think the federal government really has any role in that since there aren't million dollar companies selling their products across state lines.
ReplyDeleteI believe that medical marijuana is the future for curing medical sicknesses that cause suffering in many people, like cancer. I agree with Ryan that it should be taken off the most dangerous drug list because it is used relationally and used for medical purposes. In other states, they legalized marijuana so that their state can get a very good income and it satisfies people's medical needs. Not only will it be effected socially but also economically. Both the state and Federal Government will receive tax incomes on medical marijuana because they have the ability to tax it when ever someone purchases it and the revenue will be extravagant because once it becomes legal, a lot of people are going to want the product. To answer Giovanna's question, whether legal or illegal, crime activity and drug deals for marijuana will always continue. That's why I believe marijuana should be legal because it is the future of recovery.
ReplyDeleteI just think that this is a very comical example of how, no matter what the Constitution may say, our governments are always at the mercy of the American people. Although the Controlled Substances Act expressly forbids the growing, distribution, and consumption of marijuana, Colorado state officials will not enforce the federal government's law--the people are so vehement about supporting the sale of marijuana that they refuse to address the law in court, apparently. This is an apparent violation of the Constitution's statement that federal laws take precedent over state ones.
ReplyDeleteThe use of medical marijuana is absolutely not a front for illegal activities--just because the federal government permits the use of medicinal marijuana today doesn’t mean drug lords will be strutting down Main Street with bongs and bowls in-hand tomorrow. I also agree with Matt that criminal activity to some extent will occur whether medicinal marijuana is legalized or not. Similarly, a politician can absolutely oppose drugs but support medicinal marijuana--medicinal marijuana exists to cure people of legitimate diseases, not provide entertainment on a Saturday night as non-medicinal marijuana and other drugs might.
In this instance, corporate and individual interests in the state of Colorado run quite parallel. Medicinal-marijuana-selling corporations have great interest in expanding their industry, and citizens of Colorado will not object because the expansion of this industry results in more jobs. The medicinal marijuana industry provided a way out of the Great Recession, and may just prove a safeguard against future economic turbulence in Colorado
Medical Marijuana has created jobs and increased revenue for the state of Colorado. It is in the public’s interest to have dispensaries because of the high volume and high profit margins that it creates. However, it is not always viable for these dispensaries to function because although under state legislation their activities re legal, under federal law they are partaking in federal crimes. This makes it very difficult for them to function, getting loans and vendors and so forth.
ReplyDeleteI don't agree with the statements regarding that it should be removed from the most dangerous drug's list. In fact Marijuana is a very dangerous drug than when not prescribed and used recklessly, can have adverse affects. The situation at hand is dealing with federal laws prohibiting illegal substances. If the substances are prescribed and taken wisely then there should not be an issue. However, it is regulating people that will abuse this service.
I also agree with those above who think that marijuana should be taken off of the most-dangerous drug list. With the changing times of the world, we all need to more open about possible solutions for problems. In this case, marijuana to ease the effects of chemotherapy and glaucoma. When the federal government compared marijuana to cocaine and meth and stated that it is more harmful than both of those drugs, it makes me wonder if the government is really just making things up in order to turn more people against it. The last time I checked, I do not think that anyone ever died from a marijuana overdose. Not only are there medical reasons for making it legal, but also economic. In just one state, the tax revenue was $20 million and it has helped but Colorado out of the recession. If marijuana was put on a larger scale, who knows the benefits that it could have for our country. Also, it will unify all of us under the same law and we will return to the previous rule that federal law trumps state law.
ReplyDeleteI do believe that legalizing medical marijuana has undeniable benefits. I agree with Tim and Katie on the idea that making marijuana illegal only enhances its use. Legalizing medical marijuana can help alleviate the pain of people who suffer from cancer and glaucoma and could be used to increase revenue and commerce. The government would also be able to monitor and place limitations on medical marijuana and would then help stop illegal activities that are only using medical marijuana as a front. The federal government would have to step in and get involved in the debate. By selling marijuana Colorado is defying federal laws against selling the drug and in theory the government could prosecute anyone in Colorado who buys or sells medical marijuana. This is a federal versus state power battle and the federal government must decide whether it will allow each individual state to decide on this issue or if it will enforce the law it has in place.
ReplyDeleteI would agree with those who said medical marijuana should be legalized for a few main reasons. First off if studies have shown that this drug helps people who have certain diseases, why would the government say they can't get treatment? This is one of the main problems with no medical marijuana. It is basically like telling someone who is going in for surgery they cannot get any anesthesia. One other reason is that alcohol is legal. The CDC reports 37,000 deaths per year are related to alcohol, however the CDC does not even have a category for deaths related to marijuana. So why would a substance that causes thousands of deaths every year be legal while another substance does not? Another reason would be that this sale would be taxed, this would help generate a large amount of revenue for the government. The legalization of medical marijuana would not only help the state and federal governments, it would also help individuals. Whoever gets into the business in the start, will most likely make a lot of money. However one theoretical problem for medical marijuana would be it could be sold to people who do not have a prescription for it. One way this can be stopped is how the video said by having security cameras all around the store it is sold in.
ReplyDeleteI think that at this point medical marijuana should be removed from the banned substance list because the federal government has allowed it to be commercially bought and sold for too long. Even though all the transactions on medical marijuana in Colorado are violating federal law the federal government has not taken action to stop them. Our federal government should have taken action immediately against the buying and selling of marijuana if the government was going to at all. Medical marijuana has grown into a multi-million dollar industry and there would be extreme economic losses in states that have legalized marijuana if the industry came to a halt.
ReplyDeleteI think this is a federal government issue because once one state legalizes marijuana it will be hard to prevent the drug use from spreading into states where it is still illegal. There should be one uniform decision that the whole country has to follow. I agree with Casey that federal law should trump state law. If our federal government did nothing to enforce the banned-substance list in Colorado then doesn't it show a weakness in the power of our laws?
The federal government needs to pick a side of the fence and act on it. You cant let some states legalize medical marijuana and than claim its breaking the controlled substance act under federal law and threaten the banks with prosecution. Pick a side based on logistics and their own opinion and take action. Also, how can you rule out that marijuana can help cure and treat people's conditions if you dont let them experiment with it. If you take it off the most harmful drugs list i would consider the government taking a side. If there are so many dispeners than obviously something is going right. Roll with the tides of change and see what happens it would not be a detrimental blow to our nation if we let sick people try out a possible solution or treatment to their illness.
ReplyDeleteI agree with all those above that say that marijuana needs to taken off the most dangerous drug list. However, it still is a drug and can be addicting. Yes it can be used for medical purposes like easing the effects of chemotherapy but what happens when the cancer patients no longer need chemo but can't stop using the marijuana. its just like any other medication, it is potentially harmful. When people go into dispensaries, how can the workers tell if the person is getting it wants it for medicinal purposes or the high. anyone can just go in and say I'm picking it up for my mom who has cancer, if states are going to allow marijuana to be sold and grown legally there needs to be prescriptions for a certain amount and how often they can refill. also the federal government can't say that marijuana is a very dangerous drug then let states sell it even for medicinal purposes, its either yes medical use is okay or no its should be banned for all reasons.
ReplyDeleteI believe that the use of marijuana for medicinal purposes only is completely beneficial to one’s health, but is it really that much of a revenue increaser for America? As it stands right now, the controlled substances act prohibits any use of the drug, but some state governments allow it. That means that the federal government is, in no way, benefitting from the intrastate trade of the drug. If marijuana was taken off of the dangerous drug list and made legal for medicinal purposes, the government would be able to tax the trade of the drug, but what about the illegal drug dealers? As soon as medical marijuana is legalized, all drug dealers have an excuse as to why they have the drug on them. Now, the police need to spend more money and resources in an investigation to figure out exactly how the dealer got the drug, taking extra steps to prosecute a felon that is able to hide behind a new federal law. Right now, although the federal government would like to think so, they have absolutely no say in the commerce of the drug. If legalized, the federal government would indeed be able to expand their power over the interstate commerce of the drug. Furthermore, I do believe that these boutiques would turn into fronts for the illegal trade, which, as stated before, would lead to the police using more resources to crack down on the drug problem, which is already at a climax. The fiscal benefits of legalizing do not seem to be very attractive, but what is important is that marijuana is a drug that can help the ill. On the other hand, legalization would not necessarily lead to an increase in organized crime, but it surely would not stop it. All in all, as long as an efficient balance between regulation and the trade of the drug is found, the advantages of the legalization of marijuana far outweigh the cons.
ReplyDeleteMarijuana should be legalized and it seems like the federal government can't do much to stop it in states such as Colorado and Denver anyway. Making it difficult for a dispensary owner to do business with a bank, making it impossible to take out a loan, get clients information, and so many more essential things to running a up and coming business is making matters worse. Sometimes the federal government needs to keep to itself and let these businesses run their courses. The Federal Controlled Substance Act lists Marijuana as dangerous as Heroine. Marijuana maybe a drug, but it is a drug that is helping people fight off deadly diseases like cancer. Using Marijuana illegally is what the federal government is scared of, so they are blockading every way possible from growers to do business. The federal government knows it doesn't have enough man power to shut down the Marijuana business in Colorado and know its even more impossible to get a jury to convict it's citizens. So stop blockading because it's obviously pointless and just let the people that need their medicine get it.
ReplyDeleteJust like Jeremy said, the government will be getting a lot of revenue out of Marijuana. It helped pull Denver out of their recession, occupied industrial space, and provided jobs to many citizens. To me, it seems like this "green rush" is just as beneficial as the gold rushes were in those areas back in time.
Over the years, Marijuana has become a part of the American Culture, whether we like it or not. I agree with dibs when he said that the federal government needs to make a decision with reguards to how it will enforce medical marijuana, and stick with it. The federal government needs to show uniformity with the enforcement of its laws. Either congress should make an amendment to the constitution that approves the sale and purchase of medical marijuana or it should enforce the constitution as it is. I believe that with the legalization of medical marijuana on a federal scale, the economy would greatly benefit. With the legalization of marijuana, the federal government would have the power to tax a whole new industry. This would inevitably increase the governments power over the nation, but it could also potentially play a roll in driving the american economy. Also, the government needs to cut it with the bs, medical marijuana is known to have medicinal properties, the american people dont need to be lied to anymore. A cousin of mine who has had cancer for 6 years and has gone through more then 90 chemo treatments claims that the medical marijuana pills he takes help ease the pain of all his treatments. When i heard that the government stills classifies marijuana as a "class 1" drug, I immediately thought of the word propaganda. In a "free market" society and a country that prides itself on civil liberties, i don't see why the government would want to enforce the federal laws against marijuana. I don't condone the use of marijuana, i just believe that a cancer patient should be able to decide for themselves if marijuana has medicinal properties or not.
ReplyDeletePersonally, I don't see any problem with the legalization of medical marijuana. Marijuana offers clear benefits to one's health, as Dan pointed out. However, when I think of marijuana, I don't immediately think of its potential health benefits; I think of it as an illegal drug because of how it has been portrayed in society. I think this is where the source of the problem lies. More people know about the adverse effects rather than the salutary effects of the drug. In fact, studies have shown that alcohol is actually more harmful to one's body than marijuana is; yet, Americans can access alcohol easily.
ReplyDeleteLegalizing marijuana would also weaken Mexican drug cartels, another major benefit. By making marijuana consumption illegal, the US government is actually fueling the economic, political and military strength of organized crime in Mexico. If the use of marijuana was legalized, illegal Mexican drug traffickers would lose a huge portion of their demand.
I agree with Dan and Meghana: marijuana has, over the years, become a part of American culture, and the real issue here isn't concern for safety. As of right now, it's almost socially unsafe, so to speak, as a politician to want to legalize marijuana for recreational use or even simply for medical use. It's been engrained in our minds that marijuana is bad. I'll admit, as Meghana did, when I think marijuana I don't immediately think of medicine, I think of people buying from drug dealers and getting high and doing stupid things.
ReplyDeleteBut let's think for a second... some drug dealers might be adding something (like a small dose of a higher risk, more addictive drug) to their marijuana that can seriously harm or addict you, so as to keep you buying from them and only them. Legalization of marijuana for both medical AND recreational use would make it much safer for people to buy and use it, and would weaken the income of the class A scumbags who would put you at risk for their own financial benefit with a clear conscience. I also think that on top of weakening the criminal issues tied to marijuana, legalization of the drug would single handedly play a huge role in pulling us out (ALL the way out) of the current recession. We're almost there, why not give us a little push?
~Taylor Scibilia
Legalizing marijuana would certainly produce revenue for the federal government as it taxed interstate commerce and it would not create difficulties for the federal government or police for substance regulation. Marijuana would be put in a similar position to alcohol, which has certain age restrictions, is often used responsibly, and often causes severe damage. There would be no shady drug deals or secret plantations because the substance would be free for public use. The only real concern would be educating people on how to be responsible and preventing activities like high driving, which would be at least as dangerous as drunk driving. In our current society, anyone over the age of 21 could buy all the alcohol they like and drink themselves to death one afternoon if they chose, but people generally tend to be more responsible with it. How would legal marijuana be any different?
ReplyDeleteThe above comment is by Mike Novet
DeleteI agree with Novet, I believe that medical marijuana should be legalized. If other states follow Colorado's lead then there should be little to no problems. I also recall hearing him state in the video at one point when he was talking about the medicated chocolate that it did not give a high. Perhaps if all medical marijuana was like this then it would create even less of a problem, especially if age limits and doctor recommendations were put into rigorous effect. Of course there is always the possibility of marijuana being sold behind closed doors that still give a high, but if a medical marijuana was given to people who needed it, it would be at a lower and easier to control level.
ReplyDeleteI agree with all the above comments that say that marijuana should be removed from the most dangerous drug list. Although the FDA and DEA do not prove the medical benefits of using medical marijuana, the business is a growing multi-billion dollar business. Denver clearly is a small scale example of what the benefits of making this business nation-wide could do because it pulled Denver out of its recession because of the jobs it provided for many different types of companies. Although the revenues a corporate business is making off of medical marijuana is impressive, the federal government will not issues loans, bank accounts, and easy use of credit cards by customers. However, I find this ironic because cigarettes contain nicotine, an addictive drug, and it is fair game for one to purchase as many cigarettes as one pleases even though cigarettes provide zero health benefits, and the government thrives off of these profits. The federal government can do as they please and try to enforce the Controlled Substance Act but ultimately this is like the prohibition and the speakeasies, the people who want the marijuana will find loopholes to obtain it. The Boulder D.A. mentions that the Boulder citizens do not want marijuana legislation being argued in court because they believe it is not worth the energy. Taking the medical marijuana into foods such as chocolate and cookies is another issue, but if the people want marijuana legalized for the purpose of medical necessity , the federal government should remember that they are a government for the people and this is what the people want for valid reason.
ReplyDeleteI think marijuana should be legalized and should be removed from the most dangerous drugs list. Unlike many other drugs, marijuana can be used for medical purposes and to help our economy. Legalizing medical marijuana can help alleviate pain from cancer, reduce the nausea from chemotherapy, and can be used for the treatment of glaucoma, epilepsy, and multiple sclerosis. Therefore, legalizing medical marijuana would be helping American citizens physically and emotionally. If the federal government legalizes medical marijuana, they can place taxes on the marijuana and generate tax revenues, which would be able to eliminate our current financial problems. I think the federal government lost their chance to stop the legalization of marijuana. I agree with Tara in that the federal government should have acted immediately if they wanted to put a stop to the legalization of marijuana in states. The federal government should legalize marijuana now so it looks like they are still in control because if they do not, marijuana is going to continue to spread from “legal states” to “illegal states” and the state governments are going to be the ones calling the shots.
ReplyDeleteI believe marijuana should both be legalized and removed from the most-dangerous-drug list. Not only is it nowhere near as harmful as heroine and other drugs on that list, but it has no real proven negatives. The argument could be made that the FDA has not medically proven the positive affects as well, and this is true. But if neither side has any real concrete evidence, then why should it be illegal under federal law. Not only do many people claim that it helps medically, but many experts are also saying that the economy in these states get a boost from these medical marijuana establishments. As said in the video, over 1,000,000 sq. ft. of lease space is used for the industry in the Denver area alone. Hundreds of thousands of people are patrons to the industry, meaning thousands of jobs would be created. The excuse that the drug would be used as a front for "illegal activities" is also rather nonsense. If it's not illegal under state law, there would be much less illegal activities surrounding it, considering it would be easy to purchase and regulated by the state.
ReplyDeleteOn election day, after this segment was aired on 60 Minutes, the states of Colorado and Denver both passed a referendum to legalize the RECREATIONAL use of marijuana for adults, but it is still illegal under federal law. Just last month however, Eric Holder told the governors of both states that they can go ahead and put the law into affect - no punishment or prosecution would be given. This just shows that the federal government doesn't much worry about the issue, because the ones in charge of stopping it know that it is not that heavy of a problem whatsoever. I think the only reason this drug is still listed in the most-dangerous-drugs list and still illegal for that matter is because very few politicians are willing to come out in support of medical, or even recreational, marijuana use. To say that would be to cause a disturbance in their voting block, making them lose much of the generation that still views the drug as evil. It's all politics, no logistics.
There is no absolute reason that marijuana should be considered illegal. The very end of this video makes a great point when saying, "To have it exist in both worlds simultaneously is unsustainable." Based on the evidence in the video, it seems that the federal government does a lackluster job in trying to enforce the FSCA when it comes to the use of medical marijuana industry. Furthermore, the people are against the prosecution of licensed farmers, as well as there is not enough manpower in the fed gov to try and stop all of the marijuana workers in states like colorado. The government should work to not only legalize marijuana for medical use but also take it off the most dangerous drug list, because it's obvious the effects of crystal meth or heroine are far more severe than those of marijuana.
DeleteA great idea with marijuana is the use of dessert treats or other foods that incorporate marijuana into them to still give the desired effect. Benefits of these actions would be to rid of the smell of burning the drug. Prescribing marijuana for medical reasons seems to be normal for the effect is to help the patient relieve pain or relax, similar to painkillers such as Vicodin or Oxycontin. As chris said, legalizing medical marijuana will also open up many jobs in the industry such as cultivation and also increase the need for ventilation systems. Ultimately the effects of legalizing marijuana are positive and should be carried out in the near future.
Marijuana should definitely be removed from the most dangerous drug list because it has improved the economies, such as Denver, where its sold legally. The state can make money off of it and people can invest in it, advancing the economy. As stated in the video, it helped bring Denver out of a recession by bringing in new revenue and new jobs. In addition to economic improvements, the legalization of medical marijuana helps patients dealing with glaucoma, undergoing chemotherapy, and various other medical problems. Even though the legalization of this substance can lead to large scale interstate drug dealing, as long as it is monitored appropriately and stays in the hands of patients the Federal government could potentially make a lot of money off of the stubstance and help with it's financial recovery.
ReplyDeleteFor starters, there is no reason for marijuana to be on the most dangerous drug list. It does not even compare to drugs like cocaine and heroine, both of which can be deadly. It is quite obvious that even government officials don't believe that the regulation and sale of medicinal marijuana is a bad thing, or else there would probably be more of an effort to prosecute distributors in states like Colorado. Like Chris said before, politicians do not want to back marijuana being legalized solely out of fear for a loss of support. Unfortunately, that is the way things are and there is not a very good chance that this will change. However, if the majority of people start to support the fact that marijuana can be legalized, regulated, and taxed sufficiently similar to how we deal with two other harmful products (cigarettes and alcohol) then it would only be a matter of time before the legalization of marijuana is either implemented into federal law or given to the individual states to decide whether they want it or not. In my opinion, arguments like this are not nearly as important as the bigger problems (like our ever-declining economy) because eventually people are going to realize how ridiculous it was to have it made illegal in the first place, and the issue will essentially resolve itself.
ReplyDeleteI feel that by legalizing marijuana it will do more good than bad for the economy. By removing the drug from the FDA’s most dangerous drug list and making the distribution of marijuana legal, it will make the drug a taxable item, like alcohol and tobacco. Currently 16 states have legalized the drug for medicinal use, and it has gained these states millions of dollars in revenue. Currently in Denver Colorado, over 1,000,000 sq ft of the city is occupied by places that sell the drug. The medicinal marijuana comes in all kinds of forms, from food products to drinks and down to the basic drug itself. Making the drug legal will only stimulate the economy and keep the crime rates low, for there will be no need for drug dealers sneaking around to sell the drug. The effects of marijuana are that of Oxycontin or Vicodin, as Tim stated. It is used by sick patients to relieve pain and relax the mind and body. As stated in the video, the process to build storage for the drug takes many different people, and increases the job market. Although it is legal in many states, it is still federally illegal, making it confusing on how to sell the drug. It is near impossible to put these licensed distributers on trial for the people on the jury would only vote in favor of the distributor, for it increases the economy or reduces crime rates. If the FDA approved the drug for medical use and took it of the most dangerous drug list then it would be able to be taxed, and would stimulate the economy.
ReplyDelete--Kristina Giordano
Marijuana should not be considered one the most dangerous drugs and should not be listed with cocaine, heroine and phenmetrazine. It will help stimulate interstate commerce if legalized but should be very controlled and closely monitored. Although some politicians support its legalization many are reluctant to voice there opinion on it in fear of losing political support and being portrayed in a negative light by media. I don't believe marijuana should be fully legalized and should stay in its medicinal form in order to prevent recreational use by children and those without need for it. Full Medical legalization would decrease marijuana influenced crime although it would not eradicate it completely as those who have no need for it would still like to use it. Many factors would have to be considered before marijuana is legalized on a national level and at this point it should expand its availability as a medical treatment but not grow past that stage for a prolonged amount of time
ReplyDeleteI found it comical that one of the Marijuana-laced products featured in the video was called Snake Oil—because that's what this stuff is. Whenever a student who supports the legalization of Marijuana comes up to me to debate the issue, he usually points to some pseudoscience that he read on the Internet and claims that the drug is not harmful in the slightest. However, a study by researchers at Duke University concluded that "you could clearly see as a consequence of cannibis use, IQ goes down." This linkage between neurophysiological decline and Marijuana usage has been widely supported in scientific journals. If I were a patient in need of medical care, I'd hope that my doctor wouldn't prescribe medication that would decrease my intelligence.
ReplyDeleteOn the political side of the debate, people often argue that legalizing pot will increase tax revenue and could potentially help businesses and the economy. This is typically another disingenuous argument put forth by those who want to get high without risk of being held accountable. In exchange for this potential tax revenue, however, comes the obvious risk of the system being abused. Drug dealers could expand their illegal operations under the guise of selling Marijuana "for medicinal use only." The stuff could also be sold across state lines, causing another headache for the federal government, which would need to outlay more money to prevent and regulate this. Further, federal law already classifies Marijuana as an illicit drug—and for good reason. Since federal law supersedes state laws, I find it bogus that some states have attempted to legitimize its use. This lack of federal support also makes it more difficult for businesses (including banks) to profit off of this industry. I also don't foresee the government changing its stance anytime soon, as politicians understand that this is a taboo issue and are therefore reluctant to take a pro-Marijuana stance.
-Joe F
Period 7
Day 2
Marijuana should be legal with prescription. It allows for and increase in interstate commerce because if Marijuana is legalized it will be taxable and create more revenue for the state. Obviously there should be age restrictions and FDA warnings. Other drugs are much more harmful and it should not be on the list of most dangerous drug list. When a drug is legalized it becomes safer to use because it allows the production and sales to be monitored. It will also create jobs, and most recently in Colorado the Tax revenue excess was around 20 million dollars. (Sorry my computer was broken yesterday so I'm posting this now from my sister's computer)
ReplyDeleteMedical marajuana is the only type of marajuana that should be legal. Even though the government would profit on this type of drug from taxing the drug, if we had high people all over the country all the time, it wouldn't be a safe place. It is much easier to get a high off drugs than alcohol and there is already a high level of DWIs and DUIs for alcohol use. If this drug becomes available legally, people would have an easier access and people would use it much more frequently. There is already a black market today, and many people use it illegally. If the government says that marajuana is legal, then people would abuse that power too much. The ingredients of marajuana alone should be a main reason as to keep it illegal. Medical marajuana should still be available to people who need it for medical purposes. It will ease their pain through their treatments. A person who is perfectly healthy should not be poising their body with something that is unnecessary and the government should not support legalizing it for recreational purposes.
ReplyDeleteThe above comment was offered by Danielle Sicignano
DeleteI believe marijuanna should be legalized as a medical drug because it has helped many people with serious diseases and has helped cancer patients deal with chemotherapy. Marijuanna should be taken off the most dangerous drug list because it has successful medical use and there are a lot worse drugs than marijuanna. If marijuanna is legalized for medical use, it will create a lot of revenue for states. You can clearly see how the state of Colorado has benefitted and profited from medical marijuanna and if we legalize medical marijuanna on a national level, the country will benefit economically and the production and monitoring of the drug can create jobs. The nation needs to realize the benefits of medical marijuanna and stop profiling it as a harmful drug. If regulated and monitored medical marijuanna can have positive benefits in our medical world.
ReplyDelete- Jacqui Finston
I feel as though government officials are blowing the issue of Marijuana out of the water. Prohibition banned alcohol in the mid 1900's, that was repealed, and continues to cause thousands of deaths per year. Cannabis on the other hand is not legal, and you can not overdose, and if you do make te poor decision to drive, you would just be more careful. Do I think that high school kids should have access to the drug? No, but for a cancer patient struggling through chemo, refusing to eat this drug could be a godsend. - Chris Boyle
ReplyDeleteI think medical marijuana is a very controversial and not so much a black and white issue. On the plus side it generates massive tax income and money circulation. If you are eligible to obtain a legal license, you can grow your own plant and sell it, which people will buy. On the negative side, it’s easy to get a prescription. Gang members may not even need one if they resort to violence, which they often do. Mass use in large varieties and quantities can create a potential dangerous situation involving increased gang violence. Like the Chief Justice said, it’s virtually impossible for something or someone to be supported that is against medical marijuana use; it’s way too popular among the citizens. Corporate companies are being created out of this self-interest, the “medical” need for marijuana. Even though marijuana is on the banned substance list, the federal government can do nothing to prevent it from being bought and sold effectively. Marijuana should not be in the same classification as cocaine and meth and should be taken off or moved to a separate category. Tobacco is legal and that kills people, marijuana has the potential to help ease people’s suffering, not create it. Marijuana is too profitable in Colorado to take off the markets.
ReplyDeletePosted by Megan Musachio
Delete