Shoud Cannabis be Legalized?

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Recommended: Pros and cons of medical marijuana

What is Cannabis?
According to the Merriam- Webster's dictionary the definition of Cannabis is a drug (such as marijuana or hashish) that comes from the hemp plant and is smoked illegally. The definition from the Oxford dictionary is a tall plant with a stiff upright stem, divided serrated leaves, and glandular hairs. It is used to produce hemp fiber and as a psychotropic drug.
Cannabis comes in three forms: marijuana, hashish and hash oil. Marijuana is made from the dehydrated flowers and is the least powerful of the three. All three can be smoked. Most people who use it do so to experience a sense of serene exhilaration and leisure. It can also cause change in the user’s frame of mind and also affect how they think and recognize the surroundings.
What is Florida’s Law on Cannabis?
According to Florida State Law statue 893.13, et seq. possession is a third-degree felony. If it is less than 20 grams, then it is a first degree misdemeanor. If there are more than 25 pounds, it is considered trafficking, and it equals out to be a first-degree felony. The sale of cannabis is also a third-degree felony unless it is less than 20 grams then it is also a first degree misdemeanor the penalty as stated in 775.082, 083, and 084 with a subsequent offense of 10 years. For trafficking, all sentencing is done pursuant to sentencing guidelines. For 25 – 2,000 pounds it is a required $ 25,000 fine and three years of prison. For 2,000 – 10,000 pounds it is a mandatory $ 50,000 fine and seven years in prison. Finally, if it is over 10,000 pounds, it is a mandatory $ 200,000 fine and ten years in prison. State laws are continuously changing.
Currently, in the State of Florida proponents of the legalization of cannabis have won a battle. The Fl...

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...osition on legalizing marijuana is one that if it is used correctly and prescribed by trained personnel, and then it should be legalized. However, if there is the slightest chance that it can be misused, then it should not be legalized. This writer believes that the latter will be the case so it should not be legalized it in the State of Florida.

In summary, as of the writing of this paper, in the State of Florida there is a stiff penalty for the use of cannabis/marijuana. Currently, the State of Florida is placing an amendment on the November ballot to legalize it for medicinal purposes. There are many advantages and disadvantages to legalizing it. However, there should be many stipulations placed on it to keep it under control. This writer believes it should be legalized to help the many people that are suffering but keep it under lock and key to prevent misuse!

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