Walk down the streets of any major US city, and you’ll be hit with a familiar, pungent aroma – the unmistakable smell of marijuana. Once a rarity, the scent of cannabis now permeates the air, a constant reminder of the drug’s growing presence in our communities. From coast to coast, the sweet, earthy smell of pot wafts through neighborhoods, parks, and sidewalks, making it impossible to escape its impact. Whether you’re strolling with your family, playing with your kids, or simply enjoying a walk, the smell of marijuana is an inescapable companion, a nagging reminder that the drug’s influence is everywhere.
But what does this mean for our communities, our health, and our society as a whole? As we delve into the unintended consequences of marijuana legalization, one thing is clear – the scent of cannabis is just the beginning.
What if you didn’t want to expose your children to Marijuana? How can you now in a society that has the drug advertised and marketed across the county?
The Unintended Consequences of Marijuana Legalization in America
Since the legalization of marijuana in several American states, the promised benefits of regulation and taxation have given way to a harsh reality. Instead of a well-regulated market, the government has become the primary beneficiary, while citizens face increased healthcare costs, mental health issues, and a gateway to further substance abuse.
Government Control and Taxation
Marijuana legalization was touted as a way to reduce the black market and generate tax revenue. However, the reality is that the government has become the primary controller of the market, with tax rates reaching as high as 70% in some states (The Marijuana Times). As Dr. Kevin Sabet, a leading expert on drug policy, notes, “The government is essentially becoming the pusher, and that’s not what we want.”
This government control has led to a situation where the government profits from the sale of marijuana, while citizens bear the costs. According to a report by the Tax Foundation, marijuana tax revenue has exceeded expectations, but the social costs of legalization have been significant (Baker Tilly).
Increased Use and Abuse
Legalization has led to an increase in marijuana use, particularly among youth. According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, marijuana use among 12-17-year-olds increased by 22% between 2015 and 2019. This increase in use has also led to a rise in marijuana-related emergency room visits, with a study published in the Journal of Clinical Pharmacology finding a 52% increase in marijuana-related ER visits between 2012 and 2016.
“Marijuana use among 12-17-year-olds increased by 22% between 2015 and 2019” (National Survey on Drug Use and Health).
Toll on Healthcare System
The increased use of marijuana has placed a significant burden on the healthcare system. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry found that marijuana use is associated with an increased risk of psychosis, depression, and anxiety. Additionally, marijuana-related hospitalizations have increased by 140% since legalization, according to a report by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality.
“Marijuana use is linked to a 140% increase in hospitalizations since legalization” (Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality).
Mental Health Issues
Marijuana use has been linked to a range of mental health issues, including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and suicidal ideation. The National Institute on Mental Health has warned that marijuana use can exacerbate existing mental health conditions, and a study published in the Journal of Affective Disorders found that marijuana use is associated with an increased risk of depression and anxiety.
“Marijuana use can exacerbate mental health conditions like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder” (National Institute on Mental Health).
Gateway to Other Abuse
Marijuana has long been considered a gateway drug, leading to the use of more dangerous substances. A study published in the Journal of Addiction Medicine found that marijuana use is associated with an increased risk of opioid use disorder, and a report by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration found that marijuana use is a predictor of heroin use.
“Marijuana use is associated with an increased risk of opioid use disorder” (Journal of Addiction Medicine).
The legalization of marijuana in America has not achieved its promised benefits. Instead, it has led to government control, increased use and abuse, a toll on the healthcare system, mental health issues, and a gateway to further substance abuse. As the country continues to grapple with the consequences of legalization, it is essential to consider the evidence and reassess our approach to marijuana policy.