Throughout prior decades, marijuana was considered a gateway drug, ultimately leading to more serious drug use over time. Today, however, there is a major controversy regarding adding marijuana to the list of legalized drugs. Some believe there are legitimate reasons for legalizing marijuana while others believe there will be devastating physiological and psychological effects as with all legal substances such as alcohol, nicotine, and caffeine.
Discuss the controversy surrounding the legalization of drugs, particularly marijuana. List what are considered the legitimate reasons for legalization of marijuana as well as the various concerns that may be the outcome of such legalization. Include information regarding the states who have already legalized the use of marijuana.
Provide factual documentation from at least two peer-reviewed sources and include the reference citations within your discussion response using APA format. This assignment must be at least 600 words (not including the Cover page and Reference page) to meet the minimum requirement.