[evanescence]

I agree that initially, the demand for weed may increase. However, once it is taxed and regulated by the government, it will become increasingly difficult to obtain. For example, in most states, it is extremely difficult to purchase alcohol or tobacco without an ID. It is easier to buy crack as a minor than cigarettes. Crack is more accessable because it is illegal and therefore, unregulated. Naturally, the Black Market is impossible to regulate or fully control. Therefore, in the place of the government, large scale drug organizations and cartels control the drug trade. Because of the lack of regulation, the products are often unsafe. I've known two people who smoked a joint laced with other drugs without their knowledge. Ironically, the fact the drugs are illegal cause most of the crimes committed in this country and our prisons are filled with people convicted on drug related charges. Trying to rid this country of drugs in an insurmountable task which will most likely see very little success. At the same time, it is costing US tax payers hundreds of billions of dollars a year. If drugs were legalized, they would become cheaper, less accessable to minors, and safer for the user since it would be regulated. If only common sense determined the fate of this country instead of partisan politics and bribery.