NCJ Number
148088
Date Published
1991
Length
13 pages
Annotation
This pamphlet examines two proposed law reforms regarding marijuana, decriminalization and legalization, and presents a variety of arguments that should be considered before deciding what approach society should take in this area of drug regulation.
Abstract
State laws penalizing marijuana possession vary greatly, but marijuana is an illegal drug in all 50 States. Some States that decriminalized marijuana in the 1970's are returning the drug to its criminal status. Those who favor decriminalization argue that the social and legal penalties far outweigh any danger that possession poses to society. Opponents reason that if marijuana is not of sufficiently low risk to be legalized, it is not of sufficiently low risk to be decriminalized either. Opponents of legalization argue that such an action would give governmental approval to a practice that is inherently unhealthy and wrong, that advertising would affect use, and that it would become as difficult to eliminate as tobacco and alcohol now are. Proponents of legalization acknowledge that preventing minors from obtaining marijuana might be no more successful than it is with alcohol. However, they also argue that legalization would dramatically reduce drug-related crime and violence and that current efforts at drug control have been ineffective. Other issues include the amount that non- users will have to pay for the medical care of users, the effect on public safety, possible medical uses of marijuana, and differences between marijuana and alcohol. Adults concerned about preventing marijuana use should avoid using scare tactics or misinformation, keep their communication with youth open, become aware of behavioral indicators of marijuana use, and educate their children. Concerned youth should adhere to their own beliefs, educate themselves, and make decisions carefully. Addresses from which to obtain more information