• Much debate has been conducted regarding the legalization of marijuana, with an unusual amount of contradicting research. New Jersey voters voted last year to legalize marijuana. However, marijuana is still illicit drug at federal level. There are many perspectives to take into account, including a medical, political, economic, and public health perspective. Often, debates come down to the personal motives of the debater.
Questions to consider:
• Examine pros and cons of legalizing marijuana. What are the likely negative effects? Is there an alternative approach to the issue? What are likely positive effects?
• What are the issues faced by NJ and other states that already legalized marijuana, if any? How would you grade the process of marijuana legalization in NJ? What are success stories and what are mistakes made?
• Be factual and support your position with information about how legalizing marijuana is likely to affect population (i.e. youth, young adults) of your town or NJ.
• Recognize the difference between legalization and decriminalization.