Bernie Sanders’ Marijuana Bill

Democratic presidential hopeful Bernie Sanders made headlines last week as he proposed a bill that would legalize marijuana on a federal level. Despite strong opposition in several states to pass the drug’s legalization, Sanders feels strongly that the option should at least be available to local governments. But with the number of people entering drug rehab for marijuana abuse, this bill should be considered carefully by the senate.

State’s Rights

More than anything, this bill is in favor of state’s rights. Sanders calls it the “Ending Federal Marijuana Prohibition Act” and, as reported by CBS News, “would remove marijuana from the federal list of Schedule I drugs.” While pot is now legally sold in four states, other states wishing to legalize the drug would need to go through federal permissions.

This month, however, Ohio voters “strongly rejected the legalization of marijuana,” as reported by CNBC, and several other states have turned down similar propositions.

The Dangers of Legalization

While many argue the drug is harmless and simply recreational, CBS News reports it is “defined by the Drug Enforcement Agency as one of the ‘most dangerous’ substances that have no accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse.”

DrugAbuse.gov noted in 2011 that nearly 456,000 emergency room visits had marijuana use “mentioned in the medical record.” This kind of abuse often leads to drug rehab admission and extensive recovery.

Will it Pass

CNN argues that this bill “is a long-shot in the Senate,” as it would be reforming the Controlled Substance Act. Yet Sanders argues this severity of law enforcement is unnecessary.

The Huffington Post quotes Sanders as saying, “When I was mayor of Burlington, in a city with a large population, I can tell you very few people were arrested for smoking marijuana. Our police had more important things to do.”

However, as drug rehab centers across the country continue to see the effects of addiction, it is unclear how quickly the federal government will adopt such a bill.

Emily Culp is a health writer for Fusion 360, an SEO and content marketing agency. Information provided by Odyssey House. Follow on Twitter