Marijuana Legalization and Public Health
This year saw a strange overlap of holidays. Easter corresponded with the pot smoker celebration of 420. Perhaps even more significant is the fact that this is the first 420 where marijuana can be purchased legally (in Colorado and Washington state). The Diane Rehm Show recently discussed marijuana legalization and its public health effects.
Here is a description for the segment from the show’s website:
Across the country, public attitudes towards legalizing marijuana have shifted and state legislatures are responding. No state has gone as far as Washington State or Colorado—where marijuana sales are legal—but many are moving to decriminalize the drug or make it available for medical use. And cash strapped states considering legalization are closely watching Colorado where the governor recently predicted a tax windfall. But while politicians are more eager to get on board, public health officials continue to raise alarm bells about the safety of lighting up. Guest host Susan Page and her guests discuss the business and changing politics of marijuana.
Most medical patients may benefit from the legalization of medical marijuana. However, there is a tendency that there will be some people who will abuse marijuana as well, especially that it is being sold legally in Washington and Colorado. Everyone should be educated already that there are greater benefits of medical marijuana and should not be smoking it only just to get stoned.