The Social Impact of Cannabis Legalization
The legalization of cannabis, and hemp in particular, has resulted in a number of changes to our society. It affects our economy, our criminal justice system, and our health. Some of the biggest changes concern how we function in society. Legalization of cannabis is far reaching; it affects all of us, and how we view the world. This page explores some of the social impacts of cannabis legalization, as well as what it implies for our current situation and our future.
Recent History and the Law
As of 2018, our country has a new approach to the growth of cannabis as a crop. The 2018 farm bill has legalized the cultivation of hemp, which is defined by law as those strains of cannabis with levels of THC lower than 0.3%. Although this does not include all strains of cannabis, the fact that this legislation affects every state in the union is a landmark moment for the United States.
Even in states with strict laws against cannabis, the new federal protections have made it possible for people to purchase and use products derived from hemp. In most states, people with a qualifying medical condition are able to acquire cannabis products with levels of THC higher than 0.3%. These new permissions have led to a large number of people trying cannabis products for the first time. Many more people have a friend or loved one who has tried cannabis products, and heard a first-hand account of how those products have aided in their battle against various mental and physical conditions or illnesses.
As a result of this surge in the number of cannabis users, our society has experienced a sea change in peoples’ attitude and perceptions of cannabis and its role in our lives. Many more people are tolerant of the sale of cannabis products, and many are becoming champions of its legalization. If cannabis products were ineffective or generated a number of dangerous side effects, then people would dismiss it, or perhaps fight its legalization. However, given that three years have passed since the legalization of industrial hemp and we are still relatively free of controversy, we can reasonably expect that hemp is here to stay.
An Impact on Social Life
Many of the positive effects of cannabis legalization on peoples’ well-being come indirectly as a result of related factors. Some of these include the criminality of cannabis, its economic impact, or its reputation. As more states embrace the legalization of hemp and marijuana, their impact will continue to grow.
Hemp vs. Marijuana Availability
Although access to marijuana is severely restricted in all but nine states at present, almost all states make it fairly easy to purchase CBD oil. This is excellent news for anyone who desires to consume cannabis for medicinal purposes; users can enjoy most of the positive benefits of cannabis by ingesting CBD oil. Prior to the legalization of hemp, people were forced to choose between acquiring it illegally or going without. Even when it was available, the buyer would have to smoke it to receive any benefit, which is less effective than when using a carrier oil. Most significantly, prior to the availability of CBD oil, most people wouldn’t even think about trying it, as they would not even be aware of its benefits, let alone its existence.
When an individual wants marijuana for recreational use, if they have a way to get it legally (either by “qualifying” for a medical marijuana permit, or by purchasing it in a state where recreational use is allowed), then acquiring it becomes a lot less complicated. Ease of access not only means that more people will make an effort to get cannabis; it also means that those people will not have to break the law to do so. This reduces the negative stigma associated with cannabis use, and affords many the opportunity to look at it objectively. In addition, instead of supporting criminal enterprises, the revenue generated by cannabis will support a local business.
Economic Benefits
As more and more states have made it legal to use cannabis for medicinal or recreational purposes, local industry has grown. Legal cannabis creates businesses, jobs, investment opportunities, and tax revenue. Also, the health benefits cannabis provides results in significant savings in money that would otherwise go to other forms of medical care, not to mention enforcement of marijuana laws. Marijuana enforcement is expensive for any state, as well as the individual; costs can take the form of lost jobs, lost wages, and legal expenses.
Addiction Treatment
Many people who oppose the legalization of cannabis cite the possibility of users becoming dependent on it. However, the opposite is true: Not only is cannabis not significantly habit-forming, it is often chosen as an alternative to opioids for pain management. In Pennsylvania for example, the governor worked with the state's advisory board to fast-track solutions which have benefited those suffering from opioid-use disorder. Although the jury is still out on the effectiveness of cannabis in treating opioid-use disorder, many continue to swear by its effectiveness, and advocates are well-aware of the potential of cannabis in providing relief for addictions.
Commuted Sentences
Several states that have legalized marijuana have, as part of that legislation, commuted, reduced, or expunged sentences for nonviolent offenders. Vermont, for example, though once tough on marijuana offenders, has become one of the first states to decriminalize marijuana use for recreational purposes. In doing so, many with convictions under old laws have sought a reduced or commuted sentence, or expungement. In some cases, these convictions happened a long time ago, but because they are still in the system, they continue to have a negative impact on the offender.
Other states such as California and Colorado have included similar provisions into their legislation for commutation and expungement. These changes are critical for offenders in these states; many find it difficult to advance in their careers, travel to certain countries, or find housing. This stands to reason: If it is indeed true that laws are repealed for being unjust, then how much more unjust is it when people continue to suffer the consequences of a conviction after the law has been overturned?
A Direct Social Impact
As cannabis use (both CBD and THC) becomes more commonplace, the stigma about its use disappears. This enables those on either side of the argument to have a discussion that is objective and reasoned. Research opportunities arise and are taken seriously. Users no longer have to choose between committing a crime and going without. Sellers and growers won’t either.
Perhaps the biggest impact on social life comes directly from the health benefits enjoyed by users. For example, CBD oil reduces inflammation, which leads to pain and a number other unpleasant symptoms. Reducing inflammation alone takes some of the “bite” out of a number of debilitating conditions, enabling the user to enjoy a much higher quality of life. It can also facilitate the user’s ability to seek and benefit from treatment for their condition.
These are not small matters. Enabling a person who has been sidelined with a debilitating condition to regain their quality of life is critical for their overall well-being. It helps them find their joy, and share that joy with others. As cannabis continues to be legalized, hopefully more and more people will give it a try, and share their experience with others.
*The statements made regarding these products have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The efficacy of these products has not been confirmed by FDA-approved research. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. All information presented here is not meant as a substitute for or alternative to information from health care practitioners. Please consult your health care professional about potential interactions or other possible complications before using any product. The Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act requires this notice.