The State of the Marijuana Legalization Movement

According to the 2005 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, nearly 100 million Americans admit to having tried marijuana at some point during their lifetime. 15 million report using the substance on a monthly basis, making it the most widely used illegal substance in the country. Marijuana is currently prohibited under federal law at every level, production, distribution, possession, and use. Over the years, movements have developed for the decriminalization of marijuana and the legalization of "medical marijuana," both of which are encompassed by the broader movement for complete marijuana legalization. According to a 2003 Zogby poll, two out of every five Americans support the legalization of marijuana. Even more support marijuana decriminalization, the punishment for marijuana possession being limited to a fine. Meanwhile, the efforts for the legalization of medical marijuana have made significant ground at the state level, as twelve states have decriminalized marijuana for medical use. There is much debate over the various efforts toward the softening of marijuana restrictions, with both sides boasting their share of prominent political leaders and scientists to back their claims.

The movement for the decriminalization or legalization of medical marijuana is considered by many as a first step in the broader movement for marijuana legalization. Since 1996, twelve states have legalized marijuana use for medical purposes, Alaska, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Maine, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Washington. Statewide legalization has certainly faced its hardships though, as marijuana distribution, use, etc. are all illegal at the federal level. States that have attempted to regulate the medical use of marijuana have seen federal law enforcement step in.