More than half of Americans believe the use of marijuana should be made legal according to a recent survey conducted by the Pew Research Center. The new research shows that 52 percent of those surveyed agreed with legalization, while 45 percent were not in favor or making marijuana legal. A total of 1,501 adults were polled, and those between the ages of 18 to 32 were most supportive of the law change. However it is not just younger adults who are in favor. According to Pew baby boomers are on board, as half of this group is in favor of legalization.
Of course, it hasn't always been that way, but pot smoking is gaining acceptance at a rapid rate. The survey shows the acceptance rate has risen 11 points just since 2010. Compare that to a 1969 Gallup survey showing that only 12 percent of Americans favored legalization.
While more Americans admit to trying marijuana (48 percent, up from 38 percent a decade ago) and a higher number have used recently (about 12 percent say they have used marijuana in the past year), the change doesn’t seem to be based on any new science or clear proof that the drug isn’t harmful. Instead fewer Americans now perceive marijuana as a gateway drug, and the belief that it is morally wrong is far less prevalent.
Supporting legalization may be a financial issue for some. The survey shows nearly 72 percent of participants believe government efforts to enforce marijuana laws cost more than they are worth. That certainly factored into Colorado and Washington’s votes in 2012 elections to legalize the recreational use of small amounts of marijuana.
The perception of pot’s dangers may have changed, but the drug still makes many people uncomfortable. There is evidence that marijuana is harmful, especially to young people whose brains aren’t fully developed, and it causes impairment and slows response times in a similar way to alcohol, so driving while under the influence can be dangerous.
Marijuana Abuse and Addiction Help at La Paloma
If you or someone you love needs treatment for marijuana or other drug addiction, call La Paloma at the toll-free number on our homepage. Someone is there to take your call 24 hours a day and answer any questions you have about treatment, financing or insurance.
