Monday Matters - I Own The Sources #4

Don't Legalize Marijuana OR Medical Marijuana

An anonymous editor from Times-News Magic Valley of Idaho argues against the legalization of marijuana and medical marijuana. He claims that there is a correlation between legalization of medical marijuana and increased casual marijuana use in certain areas. He uses "Oaksterdam", an area in downtown Oakland, California, as an example where medical marijuana has been legalized and an increase in illegal marijuana use has been noted. The editor is concerned about the legislation passing through state legislatures that allow the legalization of medical marijuana. He is also concerned about the youth of America being affected by marijuana, stating studies that reveal marijuana use in teens leading to cocaine use in the future and research that reveal negative ramifications of marijuana use in teens. He states that marijuana is becoming more potent and therefore more addictive. Finally, the editor claims that Tetrahydrocannabinol, available in pills or patches, can be used as an alternative to medical marijuana.