Every year in the U.S., more people are arrested for marijuana offenses than the populations of Las Vegas and Reno combined. Almost 90% of those arrested are arrested for simple possession. Yet, 40 years into the federal government's "war" on otherwise law-abiding marijuana users, marijuana is still inexpensive, widely used, and available everywhere. And while we waste endless government resources prosecuting this war, we create an illegal market that finances the activities of violent gangs and drug dealers.
Our laws do not work. And we can no longer turn a blind eye to this disastrous and costly policy failure.
Look at the violence raging at our southern border. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton was recently quoted as saying America’s “insatiable demand for illegal drugs” is fueling this violence. Experts warn that the situation is pushing Mexico perilously close to being a failed state. And according to the Department of Justice, more marijuana is being trafficked by these drug cartels than all other drugs combined.
After decades of trying, it’s obvious that we will never be able to extinguish Americans’ demand for marijuana. And as long as this demand exists, there will always be a market to supply it. That market should be legal, regulated, taxed and safe.
It is time to end marijuana prohibition.
