Substance Abuse Prevention

Guidelines for Point/Counter Point Paper 75 points –Due in Module 6 One of the more controversial topics today is whether or not to legalize the recreational use of marijuana. Note: recreational use is different than medicinal use. With the medical use of marijuana, one gets a prescription from their doctor to go to an approve dispensary and buy a limited amount to treat symptoms of their illness. This paper will only focus on the recreational use of marijuana, where you have state approved stores that sell marijuana cigarettes and edible marijuana products. At these stores you must of legal age but no other criteria are needed. You may purchase and consume marijuana without risk of arrest or fines. This approach is used in some states such as Washington and Michigan. There is no national policy, each state has to decide what works for them. In this paper, you will investigate reasons why legalizing marijuana should be done and provide an argument against legalizing the recreational use of marijuana. Follow the outline below and use the headings listed. 1. History: Provide an overview of key points of marijuana in the US, (1/2 t page to one page 10 points) 2. Legalization Describe what states currently allow the recreational use of marijuana and which states have pending legislation.(1/2 to 1 page), 10 points 3. Supporting Arguments: Provide at least five compelling reasons why states have opted to legalize the recreational use of marijuana. Provide specific facts and statistics from the research. Be sure to include a wide variety of perspectives—economic impact, tourism, law enforcement, medical etc. (1.5 pages), 15 points 4. Opposing Arguments: Provide at least five reasons why states have opted not to legalize the recreational use of marijuana. Provide specific facts and statistics from the research. Be sure to include a wide variety of perspectives—economic impact, tourism, law enforcement, medical etc. (1.5 pages)-15 points 5. Papers should include an introduction and conclusion, each 2-3 paragraphs (10 pts). 6. Papers should reflect quality writing reflective of 400 level course including appropriate citations from the research (2010 or later). Use APA format and paper length is 5-6 pages plus a reference page. Use the standard 1 inch margins and 12 point font size (15 points)