Marijuana is a major drug and crime influence in our country today. There are two groups fighting each other, those who are pro-marijuana and those who are anti-marijuana. The debate for legalization has been going on for many years. Consequently, there are no options to solve it; ending the argument seems to be a bit impossible. There are some extremely well formed arguments for both sides. One must analyze both to draw their own conclusions.
             There are several street names for marijuana (i.e., Mary Jane, Hemp, Pot, Weed). It does not matter, what you call it; it is still Cannabis Sativa and it is still illegal. The use and sale of narcotic drugs has been a problem of much public concern and debate. On one side, they argue that laws were passed and criminal penalties were instituted for possession and sale of the drug. According to Steve White, a former agent for the Drug Enforcement Agency, "most growers involved in the illegal marijuana business turned out to be normal Americans rather than violent criminals. Nevertheless, he contends that these growers are still knowingly engaged in illegal activities and should be punished appropriately" (White 1). Numerous Americans have been convicted and thrown into prison for growing, possessing, and smoking marijuana. "Even though, California citizens voted to allow the medical use of cannabis in November 1996, the federal government has not softened its position on drugs, even for medicinal use" (Slambrouck 2). Due to mandatory minimum sentences, many of those convicted are receiving stiff prison terms; even as, violent criminals are released for lack of space. The federal and state governments made the penalties for marijuana offenses much tougher. More resources have been devoted to their enforcement and punishment. As a result, there may be more people in prison today for violating marijuana laws than at any other time in the nation's history. "In 1999, a ...