The House of Representatives voted to remove cannabis from the federal list of controlled substances earlier today. This is the first time in US history that cannabis was legalized on a federal level. However, while this vote is a big step, the Senate has made it clear they are reluctant to pass any law that would legalize cannabis on a federal level. This article will look into the arguments made for both legalizing cannabis and keeping the substance illegal. We will also discuss what a vote like this means for the future of cannabis in the United States.
The History of Cannabis in America
The view of cannabis and other marijuana-based products was not always so hostile in America. From the early 17th century to the late 19th century, hemp, the industrial variant of cannabis, was used to make clothes, ropes, and sails all across America. It wasn’t until the 1930s that the use of cannabis would take a more negative turn. During the Great Depression, many Americans started to turn on cannabis. Marijuana was associated with Mexican nationals crossing the border to take jobs away from Americans. This attitude resulted in what we now refer to as the “war on drugs.” During the 60s, 70s, and 80s, Congress passed a series of laws that not only made cannabis illegal but implemented severe prison sentences for possession of the substance.
Now, the view of cannabis and other marijuana-based products is starting to soften in America. As of the 2020 election, the possession and consumption of cannabis is entirely legal in 17 states. Another 27 states allow cannabis consumption in some forms for medical purposes. Only six states remain where cannabis is 100% illegal.
The Argument for Legalizing Cannabis on a Federal Level
In late 2019, Forbes conducted a study to see the leading arguments in legalizing cannabis on a federal level. Overwhelmingly, the biggest argument for legalizing cannabis was for the medical benefits it provides to people. According to the California Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, more than 92% of individuals polled with a chronic medical condition saw a reduction in pain and increased appetite. This result is excellent news for those suffering from certain kinds of cancer where it is common to be in a lot of pain and not have the energy to eat.
Also, many tax benefits come from legalizing marijuana. As of late 2019, the state of Colorado has surpassed over $1 billion in tax revenue from the sale of cannabis. Colorado uses this revenue to fund much needed social programs in the state. For example, Colorado is sending a stimulus payment of $375 to every unemployed resident due to COVID-19.
The Argument Against Legalizing Cannabis on a Federal Level
The most prevalent argument against legalizing cannabis on a federal level is the federal government does not have the authority to do so. Legal experts, especially those in conservative states, for decades have made the argument that the legalization of cannabis should be decided on the state level and not the federal level. According to the Morning Consult, over 56% of those polled believe the individual states should determine the legalization of cannabis.
Also, many believe that this is not the right time to determine if cannabis needs to be legal on a federal level. Earlier this week, many Republican leaders expressed their disdain for legalizing cannabis while the country desperately needs more COVID-19 relief. Kevin McCarthy, the House minority leader, took to Twitter to express his frustration. In his Tweet, he stated, “Nothing for small businesses. Nothing for re-opening schools. Nothing on battling the pandemic. Just cannabis and cats.”
The Future of Cannabis in America
Those in support of states’ rights may get their wish when it comes to cannabis legalization. While the House vote on legalization is a huge step, it may ultimately go nowhere. Mitch McConnel, the Republican majority leader in the US Senate, has gone as far as saying that the federal government will never legalize cannabis under his watch. With the Republicans still holding a slight majority in the Senate, it is doubtful McConnel will even hold a vote on the matter. The biggest hope of those that want to see the federal government legalize cannabis will come from the two Senate races occurring in Georgia. If Democrats can take the majority in the Senate, they will have a clear shot for legalizing cannabis on a federal level.
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