Question

You are a cross-government group of people brought together to take a fresh look at policy development in relation to marijuana. You have been asked to consider how marijuana should be framed as a policy problem. For example, it might be viewed as a health matter, a fiscal matter or as an environmental/regulatory issue. If seen as a health matter, then the focus is likely to be on the relationship between marijuana and ill-health or improved health. If viewed as a fiscal issue, then the focus might be on ensuring that marijuana taxes might cover the social and health costs related to usage, or interest might lie in addressing issues such as smuggling and duty avoidance. If seen as an environmental/regulatory problem, then the focus might be on regulation in public places.

Answer 1

Marijuana should be framed as a social offence or social crime. The marijuana products of today have increased and they are high in potency. The main content in the marijuana is delta-9- tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). This content in the marijuana leads to addition, mental illness, violence, crime , traffic deaths and many health problems. A recent book by a former New York Times reporter shed light into the details of a research showing that, the chronic use of marijuana leads to mental illness and violence. According to the National Institute of Drug Abuse (NIDA), marijuana is the most abused drug in United States. When marijuana smoke is inhaled, THC rapidly passes from the lungs into the bloodstream and is carried to the brain and other organs throughout the body. With higher THC levels in those who are not used to the effects, some people may feel anxious, paranoid or have a panic attack. It also causes loss of coordination and motor skills, difficulty in thinking, memory and problem solving. It also may affect mental health.

The National Fraternal Order of Police stated some conclusions with the help of a joint study conducted by the univeUnive of Colorado, Johns Hopkins University and Harvard Medical School about the impact of marijuana on the society. They are the following:

*There is evidence of a persistent black market for marijuana which is completely illegal.

*There are higher rates of traffic violations while driving under the influence of marijuana.

*An increased number of marijuana related poisoning and hospital visits of children.

*Use of marijuana by children less than 17 years of age is rising faster than the national average.

*Arrests of juveniles for marijuana related offences have increased up to 5%.

Using and dealing with marijuana is a harmful for society. So it should considered as a social offence or social crime.