Drugs are widely abused throughout the world. However, it is important to understand and not minimize the variability in drug use. It is clear that some are intended for distinct medical treatment and others are intended for recreational use. In the United States, marijuana has been and continues to be a very controversial drug. Some states have allowed medical marijuana use, while others have banned the drug altogether. Those who oppose the legalization and regulation of marijuana suggest that the economic and health risks associated with using the drug are too high. Although legalizing marijuana carries risks, our country has already taken too many risks by banning the drug. As a result, the lives of many police officers and American citizens are in danger as the task force attempts to control the black market. This limited the treatment options for the sick, as marijuana could be prescribed for a variety of illnesses (Fisher, para. 1). The benefits of legalizing marijuana far outweigh the losses of keeping it illegal. There are flaws on both ends of the spectrum, but it is clear that regulating and legalizing marijuana will give the government additional revenue through taxation, reduce spending on law enforcement, and increase availability medical treatments (Single 10:457). .If we look at American history, alcohol was once against the law. Over time, this became legal and carefully regulated by the government. As this happened, our nation witnessed the dangers and health problems associated with alcohol use and abuse. For example, drunk driving kills many Americans every year. In comparison to studies on marijuana with...... middle of article......ijuana 40:478). Marijuana regulation can have many positive effects on an economy; people need to be open-minded enough to at least recognize them. In conclusion, it seems that, for various reasons, marijuana has acquired a negative image in the United States today. Whether it's because of the smoke, the physical effects, or the criminalistic view of the drug, it doesn't matter. Americans must accept the facts instead of taking them with a grain of salt. On the contrary, the failure to legalize marijuana and the attempt to ban its use has caused more human suffering than the legalization of marijuana alone. Additionally, effective drug regulation would help boost the economy and eliminate crime. Americans have to choose, and based on the facts, it's only a matter of time before people recognize and accept the legalization and regulation of marijuana in America..