Medical Marijuana Colorado

As previously reviewed, Colorado medical marijuana is fronted with many false assumptions. Most of these falsehoods are used to create fear and doubt among a skeptical public. Today's myth: decriminalizing marijuana will cause crime rates to increase. Many opponents of medical marijuana in Colorado claim legalization will create a spike in crime rates both in violent crime and traffic violations. Some opposing literature has even gone so far to say highways will become war zone. This, of course, is ridiculous to the point of laughability. Many who believe this think that decriminalization of Colorado cannabis will create an entire new culture of drivers driving under the influence of marijuana, thus causing more accidents, traffic violations, and DUI infractions. Unfortunately, there are no legitimate studies or statistics to support or debunk this claim. However, irresponsible driving is a function of the individual, not the drug. It is highly doubtful that decriminalizing marijuana will suddenly create irresponsible drivers. Reality check: those who drive under the influence of marijuana, alcohol, or any substance will do so regardless of legality or social acceptance. The only way to make some fairly logical conclusions on the subject is to compare crime rates in a place where marijuana is legal: Amsterdam. Census crime statistics show that violent crimes such as murder are lower than the United States on a per capita basis. Total crime on a per capita basis is also lower in Amsterdam than the United States. One would think if crime and marijuana were directly correlated, crime would be out of control in Amsterdam. Traffic statistics are difficult to compare due to the fact that commuting is far less prevalent in Europe. However, Amsterdam isn't really well known for high DUI rates. Unfortunately, comparing statistics isn't enough to convince skeptics. Proponents for Colorado medical marijuana are given the task of breaking down social barriers so the industry may flourish. Once the public begins to understand the benefit of medical marijuana in Colorado far outweighs the risk, the industry will be allowed to thrive.