I support full legalization of cannabis (marijuana). Recreational use is less dangerous than alcohol, and should be regulated similarly. Nobody loses a job opportunity for off-the-clock alcohol use; nobody should lose a job opportunity for off-the-clock cannabis use.

It’s time to do the right thing

Any conversation about legalization that does not include blanket amnesty for simple possession does a disservice to all of the otherwise law-abiding Hoosiers that are imprisoned for cannabis possession.

As we legalize marijuana and regulate the sale and use, we need to keep small businesses at the front of the wave of progress. Big out-of-state corporations are waiting to swoop in and corner the market, taking opportunities away from hard-working Hoosiers.

Economic and environmental benefit

In addition to recreational and medical benefits, marijuana can be a fast-growing cash crop for Hoosier farmers, while also actively capturing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and cleaning forever-chemicals out of contaminated soil.

A recent study published by IndyStar revealed that Hoosiers spend nearly $2 Billion in surrounding states on marijuana products. At a 10% tax rate, that’s almost $200 million in tax revenue we’re letting go up in smoke.