POV: It's Time to Legalize Marijuana
Amidst the current political debate over marijuana legalization in Massachusetts (Question 4 on this year’s ballot), state Representative Hank Naughton, chairman of the Public Safety and Homeland Security Committee, recently argued: “Marijuana is a gateway drug to the problems of the opioid crisis that we’re having today. It’s not just a business and it’s not like a six pack of beer. There’s a lot more to it.”
I’ve spoken with many well-intentioned politicians and police officers who prioritize protecting citizens and share legitimate concerns about the influence of marijuana on their communities. I understand the intuitive fears about increased marijuana use. However, they are often articulated through a long-held belief in the gateway theory. This stepping-stone narrative—that marijuana is relatively benign but leads to something much worse—has served as the foundation of a prohibition approach that treats young white users as victims and criminalizes the “invading pusher.” Looking at...
This marijuana news is brought to you by 420 Intel. For the latest breaking cannabis industry news, subscribe to the 420 Intel newsletter. If you'd like to promote your product or service in this area after every article, contact us.
Follow us on Instagram
Connect with us on Linkedin