The legalization of marijuana is a common topic of debate in the United States. As debate continues within the political system, marijuana has become the most popular illegal drug in the United States. There are many arguments for and against the legalization of marijuana, ranging from effects on the mind and body to economic possibilities after legalization. Both sides adhere to solid facts and stronger support, but most of these facts come from similar research with conflicting results. The side that tends to have the most support in the most important arguments, the economy, health and criminal associations, is the group for legalizing marijuana. Drug traffickers and cartels finance their operations and enrich themselves through their black market drug sales. . This begs the question: If they can do this, why can't the US government do the same while erasing cartel activity? One lawyer (Andrew Cohen) argues that “revenues from such taxation could generate billions in new revenue and billions more in enforcement savings.” In fact, it is estimated that taxing marijuana would generate revenue of approximately $2.4 billion per year if marijuana were taxed like any other normal consumer good. (Time to legalize marijuana?) If, however, the tax were similar to that of alcohol or cigarettes, the revenue generated would be closer to about $6.2 billion per year. More than 500 economists support the legalization of marijuana, including many notable economists such as Milton Friedman and George Akerlof. (Time to legalize marijuana?) Legalizing marijuana has serious economic benefits: It generates billions of dollars in additional revenue that, in times like these, could be a big paper deal... ...r own will. Cigarette smokers used this excuse to be allowed to smoke in many public places. Not only is marijuana less dangerous than cigarettes and alcohol, but it can also be used for medicinal purposes. It goes without saying that hemp, the plant itself, can be used for many other reasons, such as a cheap substitute for paper, to make clothing, and even a possible new source of fuel. Marijuana is commonly used medically for a variety of reasons, including the use of THC, the active ingredient in marijuana, to treat certain conditions. Not to mention the extent to which its legalization could help the economy. /opinion/courtwatch/main4828659.shtmlhttp://drugwarfacts.org/cms/?q=node/30http://www.drugpolicy.org/marijuana/factsmyths/