There were many debates on Capitol Hill regarding the legalization of marijuana. By analyzing the history, data, and health effects of marijuana, it becomes clear that the debate over marijuana legalization should be seriously considered and brought to Congress as an issue that can stimulate the economy and bring together a divided nation. This problem, like many others, will not be a reality until Congress takes action and directly addresses the problem. Conflicting opinions arise when so much time, effort and money have been spent on drug elimination. America's "war on drugs" has been an intense operation aimed at eliminating narcotics from the streets and, often, stopping criminal distribution before it even reaches the public. Citizens of the United States have petitioned for the legalization of marijuana since its inception, but little progress has been made and the illegal existence of the plant remains. Congress has faced the vote to legalize marijuana countless times, even though the majority of politicians favor banning the substance. However, some political figures have voted and continue to vote for its legalization. The importance and concern in the United States regarding the use, distribution and cultivation of marijuana is remarkable, with nearly 5.9 million arrests since 1990. A large amount of time, money and of manpower has been devoted to controlling the substance of marijuana. marijuana in society and many people are against it. Until marijuana is legalized, the debate and fight for its legalization will undoubtedly continue from the millions of people who consume this plant in this country alone. The argument against marijuana legalization is quite simple, main... ... middle of paper ......products” (“What is Hemp” 2). With this incredible skill in mind, the unemployment rate in the United States would decrease as every industry and market would want to get into hemp farming. Marijuana, as a recreational drug, would also strengthen our economy if taxed. Taxing it would generate “$6.2 billion in revenue per year” without any of the crushing costs of alcohol and tobacco (Moffatt 1). The most dramatic effect on the economy would be its decriminalization. Its decriminalization would save $8.7 billion per year, “$1 billion on incarceration of marijuana offenders” and an additional “$7.7 billion” in prohibition-related spending (Moffatt 1 .). Ultimately, marijuana should be legalized because its effects on the economy would gradually reduce America's national income. debt and unemployment through job creation, taxation and decriminalization.