Legalization Has Been Beneficial

Not long ago cannabis and its related products were exclusively illegal. Regardless of the practicality, cannabis, its byproducts and most useful paraphernalia were outlawed. This prohibition mirrored the prohibition of alcohol early in the twentieth century. These laws were unpopular and many people drank and or smoked despite the legal status of doing so. Because these products were illegal, they created an underground network of delivery and use that caused otherwise law-abiding citizens to become criminals. Recently, most of America has awoken to the reality that keeping marijuana illegal only creates unnecessary problems and solves very few.

Much of marijuana’s acceptance came as a result of medical use, which proved it was helpful in dealing with certain ailments. Conditions like glaucoma, anxiety, nausea, and vertigo were successfully treated with cannabis and marijuana which opened the door to wider acceptance. Some states began allowing the medical distribution of marijuana through wellness dispensaries, https://www.thewellnesstemple.ca, which expanded societal acceptance of its use recreationally. More and more states followed, which eventually led many of them to decriminalize marijuana and its products.

Decriminalization is different from legalization, however. Decriminalization simply means that a substance will not be enforced and punished as a crime, instead of eliciting fines. Each state had its standard, and each step towards legalization had ripple effects on other states. Canada has often outpaced efforts in the US because of its quicker federal acceptance. Now, you don’t need a prescription or a reason to walk into a dispensary like WeedAf, point out the products you want, pay and leave. These dispensaries include edibles, oils, vape juice, and accessories. No shame, no worries.

This acceptance has expanded the hemp industry as well. Hemp has many useful retail applications, but has been restrained due to its relationship to marijuana. Now, hemp products are sold online and can be purchased and sold in most states. There is even a push in Congress to make hemp federally legal. This matters because banks won’t allow business accounts for industries that are not federally legalized.

There is no going back, and that’s a good thing. Marijuana and its related products are becoming a legitimate part of our consumer culture. By legalizing and distributing it above board, we are reducing crime allowing people to benefit from its use without stigma or fear of arrest. We are also allowing people the ability to enjoy the benefits, be they recreational or medicinal. It is exciting that every day this becomes less and less controversial as well as available.