The drug generally isn't more harmful than alcohol or tobacco if used in moderation. Limiting the use of the drug intrudes on personal freedom. Legalization would mean a lower price; thus, related crimes (like theft) would be reduced. There are medical benefits such as the those for cancer patients. Street justice related to drug disputes would be reduced. It could be a source of additional tax revenues. Police and court resources would be freed up for more serious crimes. Drug dealers (including some terrorists) would lose most or all of their business. The FDA or others could regulate the quality and safety of drugs. Like sex, alcohol, or cigarettes, marijuana is one of life's little pleasures for some people. Aside from recreational drug use, Cannabis has several industrial and commercial uses, as over 25,000 products can be made from the crop. Drug busts often trap young people in a flawed system that turns them into lifelong criminals.

Marijuana is often used as a stepping-stone drug, leading to heroin, cocaine, or other harder drugs. Stoned driving and other dangers would be increased. Some consider use of the drug as morally wrong. Legalization would increase the chances of the drug falling into the hands of kids. Because of drug-related arrests, people who have committed or are likely to commit more serious crimes can be taken off the streets. Physical damage would be done to users that abuse the drug. More widespread use would increase the dangers of secondhand smoke-damage to bystanders. Legalization of marijuana could eventually lead to the legalization of harder drugs or all drugs altogether.