Another survey shows an improvement over previous polls
A previous poll by the Pew group revealed that over 60% of Americans favored legalizing marijuana. That number could be even higher, according to another poll conducted by Gallup. The findings of the recent surveys support the belief that the U.S. must introduce federal legislation similar to what was recently seen by the country’s northern neighbor.
According to Gallup, 78% of Millenials support legalized marijuana (Pew reported 74%). 59% of those 55 years old or older, which have traditionally been opposed to marijuana, are now in favor of legalization, as well.
Breaking the survey down by political affiliation showed that all political groups now lean toward legalization. 75% of all Democrats are in favor, as are 53% of Republicans and 71% of Independents.
According to Justin Strekal, the political director for NORML (The National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws), “It is time for lawmakers of both parties to en masse acknowledge the data-driven and political realities of legalization. It is time to stop ceding control of the marijuana market to untaxed criminal enterprises and implement common-sense, evidence-based regulations governing cannabis’ personal use and licensed production by responsible adults. An outright majority of every demographic by age, political party, and region of the country support the legalization of marijuana.” Strekal added, “Our time has come.”
Recent studies of states where marijuana has been legalized have helped to counter virtually all of the arguments put forth by marijuana opponents. Not only are crime rates not worse in the states, but workplace safety is improved. Additionally, marijuana use among teenagers hasn’t increased, as some would try to have the world believe.
