Marijuana should continue to be legalized because it would no longer be used to unfairly incarcerate Black and brown people, it would benefit the economy, and would allow for the safe regulation of products.

The debate on marijuana legalization is not a new conversation in Minnesota. In 2014, medical marijuana was legalized for patients 18 and older. In 2021, edibles containing at most 5mg of THC became legal for adults 21 and over. The Minnesota legislation bills that are being proposed would allow people 21 and older to possess two ounces of marijuana in public and 5 pounds at home. The bill would give citizens the ability to cultivate eight plants and four could be fully grown.

Marijuana is being used to incarcerate Black and brown Minnesotans unfairly. In 2021, there were 6,055 marijuana arrests in Minnesota according to BCA. An examination published by Minnesota Reformer in September reported that Black Minnesotans were 4.8 times more likely to be arrested for marijuana. But, a report by the ACLU says that Marijuana usage between Black and white Americans is roughly the same. Legalization would erase this racial discrimination.

The legalization of recreational marijuana would bring more money into Minnesota. Colorado legalized marijuana in January 2014; as of 2021, they have collected more than $2 billion in tax revenue. According to New Frontier, the legalization of Marijuana could create about 1 million jobs in America by 2025. These estimates and data show if Minnesota legalized marijuana, it would positively affect the economy by boosting employment and tax revenue.

Marijuana legalization would help protect public health. When marijuana is fully legal, there can be restrictions and guidelines stores have to abide by to ensure customers are getting safe products.

Because marijuana would no longer be used to discriminate against Black and brown Minnesotans, it would help the Minnesota economy, and it would protect Minnesotan’s health, Marijuana should continue to be legalized in Minnesota, starting with the passing of the bills that are currently being discussed in the MN legislature.