Is California Proposition 19, “The Regulate, Control and Tax Cannabis Act of 2010,” madness or rationality? In recent years, many states across the country have passed medical marijuana laws. California, however, is preparing to take an even more progressive stance on the substance and pass a bill that would outright legalize marijuana for recreational purposes. Proposition 19 would have allowed anyone over the age of 21 to possess up to an ounce of cannabis, similar to alcohol. Although the initiative did not pass, it is almost certain that another similar bill will be on the ballot again in 2012. By voting yes to such a proposal, supporters of the bill say that voters have a chance to help balance the budget and create much-needed measures. revenue for the state. Others say it will help reduce crime, improve the justice system and better protect minors. Opponents of legalization argue that abusive or long-term use of marijuana can harm a person's health and well-being, as well as pose a threat to public safety due to driving under the influence. drugs. This opposing side also includes those who worry about increasing drug trafficking from Mexican cartels. A third side of the debate concerns those who currently use medical marijuana and want to keep recreational marijuana illegal. They want to keep the system as it is now and make marijuana legal only for people with serious illnesses. Each side of the argument effectively uses rhetorical strategies to target our concerns, create emotional support, promote fear, and create a compelling logical argument that speaks for a large portion of the population. .... middle of paper ...... the hearts of the public. While some may think legalizing marijuana is a good thing economically and in terms of law enforcement, others think the effects on society are not worth it. I personally believe that marijuana should be legalized, but I particularly agree with those who oppose this bill. As a registered medical cannabis patient in California, I too believe this bill is the path to corporatization of the cannabis industry, and it would sadden me to see friends and relatives lose their businesses to due to a takeover of a company. I think there will be a better bill in the future, with more freedom and less detrimental effects on the current medical marijuana collectives and initiatives already in place in the state. Overall, I don't think this debate will be resolved in the near future, as there is too much disagreement between the opposing sides..