National Legalization of Marijuana
Shirley Pardo
Lone Star College Cy-Fair
Abstract
The legalization of marijuana has become a major issue in the United States. There are many strong arguments both for and against marijuana legalization. Some would argue, its medicinal properties and its effects on the body. Others would argue about its effect on society and how the prohibition ultimately contributes to organized crime. Marijuana is a schedule I drug, and is the most illegal drug used in the United States. The effects of marijuana have been scientifically proven to be less harmful than alcohol, and it’s helpful in a treatment of many different diseases and health issues.

National Legalization of Marijuana
The marijuana plant or its scientific name cannabis, has been the topic of much debate throughout the history of this country. Many people do not know that it was not the effects of marijuana that originally prompted its banning. It was actually originally, the work of the cotton industry before and after WWII, who lobbied the illegalization because of the plant's mind altering effects. The cotton industry was afraid that hemp, a product of the marihuana plant, would soon overpower the strong hold of cotton since it was a more durable textile that required less work, there is less depletion of the soil, and could be produced virtually anywhere. Since the time it became illegal, it has been grouped with other narcotics as a counterpart. The truth is marijuana has many benefits to society and besides the effects of smoke inhalation there are very few negatives. Those against legalization try to put marijuana in the same light as other more powerful drugs like cocaine and heroin. There are many misconceptions about the substance and it is clear it should be considered separately.
Those opposed to the legalization of Marijuana plant, claim that with