LEGALIZE MARIJUANA

Marijuana should be taxed and regulated. California spends hundreds of
millions of dollars a year to enforce marijuana laws that do not deter
drug use. Rather than waste money that we do not have, California
could generate $1.3 billion a year by taxing marijuana.

Not only will this help reduce the budget deficit in California, but
it will also allow us to more effectively prevent marijuana use among
our middle and high school students. School students in California
report that it is easier to obtain marijuana than cigarettes and alcohol.

By regulating marijuana, age limits can be established to limit
people's access and consumption, similar to alcohol and cigarettes.
California can no longer afford to support the wasteful and
ineffective marijuana laws. Tax marijuana!

Sandra Phillips

Policy Intern, Southern California Drug Policy Alliance

Los Angeles