A few months ago, Massachusetts voters, decided to decriminalize marijuana.  To their credit, voters realized that possessing a small quantity of marijuana should not result in a criminal record which will limit employment and housing opportunities in the future. The days of prosecution for this victimless crime are over.  Will Rhode Island be the next state to decriminalize marijuana?

     Surprisingly, I haven't heard of any legislation to address decriminalization in Rhode Island.  I assume one reason is the economy, which rightfully has the lion's share of the attention.  Although, I do fully expect the issue of decriminalization to be brought up within the next few years.  From informal conversations, decriminalization seems to be gaining support.  The stigma surrounding marijuana use is fading, while more and more people seem to agree that possession of small quantities shouldn't be a crime.  Decriminalization in Massachusetts, a state that is close to us both geographically and politically, will also affect attitudes.

     The negative health consequences of marijuana use cannot be denied.  With that said, the state allows, and even profits from, the sale of tobacco and alcohol.  Those who oppose decriminalization will ultimately have their arguments ring hollow as long as alcohol, cigarettes, and dare I say it, fast food are legal.  After all, aren't they all unhealthy?  It isn't the government's responsibility to police our health.  That is an individual responsibility.

     I personally feel that marijuana use is a bad decision.  That is my personal opinion.  With that said, I don't think it should be the government's responsibility to save people from themselves.  After all, if we were going to arrest every person who made a poor decision, the ACI would be full of people who support the New York Yankees.