You don’t have to be a “stoner” to recognize the pros of making weed legal. Since its legalization in Massachusetts, the cannabis market has boosted the economy, created jobs, debunked stigmas, and developed a stronger weed culture.
Below are the top seven benefits of weed legalization.
1. Product Diversity
After cannabis was legalized, the weed market exploded with different strains, product types, and safe cultivation methods. This level of innovation has revolutionized cannabis usage and has significantly lowered prices in many markets. As a result, it’s now easier to find the strains you like or switch to safer consumption methods, such as THC vapes and edibles.
2. Better Insight Into Weed’s Uses and Effects
Weed’s legalization has made it significantly easier to perform cannabis research since most studies no longer require illegal substances. This has given us a much deeper understanding of how and why weed affects your mind. As a result, it can be better utilized in medical settings.
3. Improved Public Safety
Improved cannabis research has led to better public education about cannabis’s uses, effects, and risks. This makes it easier to promote safer smoking practices and address concerns with family, friends, and coworkers.
With legalization also comes regulation. Weed’s cultivation and extraction processes are now strictly monitored in states where cannabis is legal, leading to fewer unregulated strains and dangerous products.
4. Economic Benefits
In Massachusetts, cannabis products receive up to a 20% tax that contributes to state and local funds. This has contributed to transportation, education, and other essential programs.
Beyond taxes, the cannabis market has boosted tourism and job creation. The average budtender wage in Massachusetts is about $21 per hour, which is significantly higher than many comparable retail positions.
5. Medical Applications
We are still learning more about the potential medical benefits of legalizing weed. Though some studies vary, most have conclusively determined that cannabis decreases stress and inflammation. These factors make cannabis a suitable option for treating many medical conditions, including:
- Insomnia
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Chronic pain
- Arthritis
- Cancer
- Inflammatory bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Chron’s disease
- Parkinson’s disease
6. Eliminating Stigmas
Legalization has also created a better public perception of cannabis. Now that it’s no longer taboo, more people are willing to open up about using weed and discuss its uses and benefits. This has helped many users promote safer practices and address harmful stigmas and myths, such as cannabis’s impacts on parenting.
7. Peace of Mind
Whether others choose to accept it or not, cannabis has been part of human culture for at least 4,700 years. Many people see weed as a “gift of nature” because of its benefits and good vibes. Its legalization means that cannabis enthusiasts across the country can finally enjoy their smoking sessions without worrying about outdated laws or stigmas.
Celebrate the Benefits of Weed Legalization with Harbor House Collective
From new jobs to safer practices, the benefits of weed legalization can’t be understated. At Harbor House Collective, we are dedicated to cannabis education to keep our community safe and informed. Visit us in person or online to learn more.
