History and background

Marijuana has been used as a medical remedy for thousands of years. However, in the early 1900s, marijuana began facing increased scrutiny and prohibition in the United States and Canada. In 1937, the Marijuana Tax Act was passed, effectively criminalizing cannabis. By the 1970s, marijuana was classified as a Schedule 1 drug under the Controlled Substances Act, meaning it was considered to have a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical value.

Over the following decades, some states began adopting more lenient policies. In 1996, California became the first state to legalize medical Legal Marijuana. Since then, more states followed, and public support has grown as more research on the medical benefits of cannabis emerges. Currently, 17 states and Washington D.C. have legalized recreational marijuana use for adults. Another 22 states allow medical marijuana, while 11 states maintain prohibition.

Growing public support for legalization

Public opinion nationally has increasingly supported legalizing marijuana over the past 20 years. Recent polls show around two-thirds of Americans support legalizing marijuana. Support is highest among younger demographics and liberals but has also grown significantly among independents, moderates, and older adults. The rise in public backing reflects changing social attitudes and generational replacement over time. It also correlates with the expanding list of states that have legalized cannabis medically or recreationally.

Many see legalization as a necessity due to problems with prohibition. Over 650,000 people were arrested for marijuana violations in 2018 alone, disproportionately impacting minorities despite similar usage rates. Prohibition gives police wide discretion that can enable racial profiling. It also fosters an unregulated black market that provides funding for criminal organizations. Legalization aims to end these negative consequences while generating tax revenue for the states.

Get More Insights on- Legal Marijuana

Explore Related Article- Calcium Lactate Market