Who wants a hit, America?

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Several countries around the world have done it, and many states in America are now jumping on the bandwagon. The legalization of marijuana, a once unfathomable idea, is now one of the most controversial, highly-possible laws to pass in a very long time. It only takes a little enlightenment about this so-called “drug” to sway someone’s opinion. And the growing amount of positive evidence on this topic is making it easier for Americans to get the facts. 

Being a teenager in the 21st century, as well as having parents from the “hippie” era, I’ve been around my fair share of marijuana. However, growing up in a country where weed has always been illegal, it’s been difficult for someone to have a positive outlook on the drug, until now. With legalization growing in the U.S., for both medical and recreational use, the question emerges of whether or not legalization of this often-misunderstood plant is a good idea. 

New York, which is a highly liberal state, is now considering decriminalizing this drug. According to a Quinnipiac poll, state voters favor the legalization of medical marijuana by a huge margin, a whopping 88 percent to 9 percent. However, while most demographic groups favor the drug for medical purposes, there is a significant generation gap on legalizing the drug on a recreational level. According to a Daily News article, voters 18-29 years of age support recreational use 83 percent to 14 percent, whereas voters over 65 oppose it 57 percent to 38 percent. 

For years, the idea of legalizing marijuana has been viewed as a possible threat, as both a health and motivational hazard for the younger generation. I’ve personally been a witness to friends and family, who are not only happy, healthy, and successful, but indulge in marijuana use on a daily basis. 

marijuana, culture, Lea Cohen
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