Feb 27 2009
Legalizing Marijuana?
Democrat assemblyman Tom Ammiano has introduced legislation that would legalize marijuana in California. If it is approved it would become legal and taxable and work much like the laws for alcohol. Approved merchants would sell it only to persons of 21 years and over. If caught driving under the influence the same laws would apply as those drinking and driving.
This was basically introduced due to the financial problems that California is currently experiencing. Revenues from taxes on the sales would produce l.3 billion for California.
Personally I am in favor. Not because I smoke pot, which I do not but because I think not only will it produce much needed revenue but it will also curb the violence and drug dealings that go hand in hand will illegal drugs. If it is controlled and you could buy your pot in your local Walgreens it would drastically affect the drug dealers out there who are now peddling the weed on the streets.
I think it’s a great idea. Your thoughts?
An excellent, timely idea.
Another benefit from the legalization and taxation of marijuana in the State of California is that industrial hemp could then be grown in this State , which would yield even higher tax revenues than marijuana alone. Hemp is one of the best green sources for biomass and biofuel on the planet, not to mention the best plant fiber for clothing or paper making) wihtout peticides or fertilizer use. Hemp farming could also help save the family farmer.
On top of all that, we could export our gourmet marijuana to other countries where marijuana is legal, another big potential tax revenue source.
I would wager that marijuana and hemp tax revenues, combined, could exceed 3 billion dollars a year for California.
T.A. Junker - Great points and more good ideas. Thanks for reading and commenting.
Ratty - thank you so much for sharing your opinion on this matter. It is a controversial issue so strong opinions are the norm. I appreciate your stopping by and commenting.
It doesn’t kill anyone.
It isn’t addictive or a gateway drug.
It would do nothing but benefit the state.
Hundreds of thousands are jailed for simple possession.
It’s a basic right to have. It should have never have been made illegal.
p - I totally agree with you. Thanks for commenting.
I have blogged on this elsewhere and completely agree with you- marihuana is actually less dangerous than several of our *legal* drugs- drug addiction is not and should not be a legal problem- it is rather a medical issue and should be treated thusly.
mtngrrl - I completely agree with you. Thanks for commenting