Arguments on Both Sides of the Cannabis Debate Are Questionable
Cannabis legalization has been a topic of debate in this country since Oregon, California, and Washington began leading the charge for legalization decades ago. People on both sides of the debate have their reasons for pushing their particular positions. Interestingly, many of the arguments they put forth are highly questionable.
It seems like the more controversial a topic is, the more extreme the arguments offered on either side. That certainly is the case with cannabis legalization. Proponents have claimed that legalization does everything from reducing crime to improving public health. Likewise, opponents claim that legalization will harm public health, reduce educational achievement, and increase crime.
Who is right and who is wrong? Based solely on data gathered from states with legal cannabis programs, neither side of the debate can claim victory. Only one claim made by cannabis proponents can be verified with data: legalization increases state tax revenues.
