In the United States this year (2012), approximately 18.9 million people aged 12 and older have consumed marijuana. The legality of marijuana differs from one area to another. Ownership of the herb is unlawful in a large number of areas and has been from the start of extensive marijuana ban in the final period of 1930. Nevertheless, various countries have legalized the possession of small amounts of marijuana, specifically in Europe, South America, and parts of North America. In addition, possession of marijuana is adequately lawful or legal in Uruguay, the Netherlands, and in a number of states in the United States including Washington and Colorado as the federal government has stated that it will not try to stop enactment of legalization in these areas. Marijuana is a psychoactive drug that grows from the hemp plant and contains an intoxicating stimulation. Marijuana can be used medicinally, recreationally, and also in religious activities all over the globe. In addition, marijuana has been in existence since 3000 BC. Groups started to restrain the cultivation, sale, possession, and use of marijuana in several countries all over the world during the twentieth century. .
The legalization of the herb was once regarded as a taboo issue. Nevertheless, this topic is now at the front position of society, being talked about and deliberated by significant individuals all over the globe. Even though marijuana has been outlawed in numerous nations, these prohibitions only started in the beginning of the twentieth century (Schlosser 46). Marijuana has frequently been recommended as medication to deal with pain and other indications due to its numerous medicinal purposes. Also, the medicinal use of marijuana is at times permitted in areas where recreational use of marijuana is not allowed. This paper will look at the pros and cons of legalization of marijuana and the effects that it will have on society and law enforcement.