Decriminalization

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In a world where entrepreneurs of all shapes and sizes are always looking for the "next big thing", where city planners look for at avocado toast as a form of economic stimulus, and self-driving cars are almost a reality, it only makes sense that decriminalizing cannabis is one of the hottest topics of our time. After all, what could be more pressing than the fate of our stoner friends and their beloved snack foods?

Let me be quite clear at the outset of this video: the topic being discussed here is NOT about "legalizing" but is intended to be directed toward the idea that prosecution for simply possessing or using cannabis is rendered null and void. Legalization of drugs is typically a provocative topic, but decriminalizing drugs should be considered more of a "happy medium" that many people can support.

"Let's talk about this sensibly. We're not insensitive. I know progress has no patience, but something's got to give."

Now, I don't want to get off on a rant here, but decriminalizing cannabis isn’t just about ensuring your cousin Steve can enjoy his “medicinal” brownies without worrying about a surprise visit from the local constabulary. It’s a complex issue with significant implications for everything from criminal justice reform to snack food innovation. Decriminalizing cannabis could be the most significant contribution to humanity since sliced bread—or at least since the invention of the nacho. When the legal system isn’t bogged down with cannabis-related offenses, we free up resources for more pressing matters, like ensuring that every food delivery app can handle the “extra-large cheese fries” option.

Moreover, think about all the potential benefits. Research has shown that cannabis can lead to an increase in appetite, which has inadvertently contributed to the development of a multi-billion-dollar (that's "billion", with a "B") snack food industry. For starters, the cannabis industry could soon give birth to new and exciting snack foods. Imagine “Cheesy Doritos-Cannabis Fusion” or “Twinkies with a Twist.” The possibilities are endless, and they might just make your next Netflix binge a whole lot more interesting. While this may sound like a win-win situation for snack-food enthusiasts, it’s worth noting that decriminalization could eventually lead to a healthier, less snack-dependent society. On the other hand, a world where every meal is a cheese-coated, deep-fried adventure could be both a blessing and a curse.

"I'd like some changes, but you don't have the time. We can't go on thinking it's a victimless crime."

One of the most overlooked benefits of decriminalization is the transformation of law enforcement resources. Here's an interesting question to consider: how many people are currently languishing in prisons all over the country for simply having a plant - granted that it's not just ANY plant, but it's not that they were using it, they simply had possession of it? Who was the actual victim in that instance? Instead of arresting folks for minor cannabis possession, police could focus on more urgent matters, like ensuring that “food trucks” aren’t simply disguised mobile gourmet kitchens trying to evade health codes. After all, if we’re going to have more snacks, let’s at least make sure they’re safe.

And by decriminalizing cannabis, how many of our tax dollars could be saved - and re-directed to other arguably more worthy causes like rehabilitation - by not needing to imprison those whose only crime was possession or use of contraband? We could see a renaissance of creativity and entrepreneurship, with everything from cannabis-infused artisanal cheeses to bespoke rolling papers becoming the norm. In this new era, the term “high society” might take on a whole new meaning, with gourmet cannabis dinners becoming as common as Friday night pizza parties.

"No one is blameless but we're all without shame. We fight the fire while we're feeding the flame."

And speaking of parties, decriminalizing cannabis might also lead to fewer unnecessary social conflicts. Picture this: fewer “potheads” on the lam and more time for people to bond over their shared love of Bob Marley and questionable fashion choices. We might even see an uptick in neighborhood block parties, with everyone contributing their best “secret recipe” to the potluck.

I've talked to a lot of people about decriminalization, and even legalization, and some of them persist in the belief that I am some hard-core addict with a needle constantly hanging out of my arm. I will admit that I do have addictions, the most prominent among them being caffeine and PlayStation (especially those Lego games). But those opposed to decriminalization always seem to come back to the same argument: drugs are bad. That may be true, but that's not enough of a reason to continue these prohibition laws.

"I know perfect's not for real. I thought we might get closer, but I'm ready to make a deal."

The point of decriminalizing drug use is not to attempt to make drugs into "a good thing". The point is that we should not be trying to control people's choices and decisions through law. It's been tried before and it failed spectacularly (i.e., the 18th and 21st Amendments). Until an actual crime is committed, one in which someone other than the user is harmed, it seems to me that prohibition laws like these only serve to empower the authoritarians.

At the end of the day, decriminalizing cannabis isn’t just about changing laws—it’s about changing minds and attitudes. It’s about moving towards a more relaxed and understanding society where we can all come together, share a few laughs, and maybe even a few brownies.

So, whether you’re a staunch supporter of the movement or just a fan of innovative snack foods, remember, decriminalizing cannabis might just be the first step toward a more relaxed, snack-filled future. And who knows? Maybe we’ll finally have a good excuse for our next late-night food run.