Marijuana Legalization

Topic: do not legalize recreational marijuana use

General purpose: to argue

Specific purpose: argue that we should not legalize the recreational use of marijuana

I. (attention getter) In today’s world, the use or marijuana is becoming more and more acceptable, and some states are already legalizing its recreational use.

a. But how much do those who voted to pass those laws really know about marijuana?

b. And If the voters were users, how many actually did research about the drug itself?

c. Many of the things people think are facts about marijuana are actually false.

II. (topic justification) the legalization of this drug not only effects the users, but everyone in their community.

a. The distributers of the drug would like you to believe that the use of marijuana is harmless, with no long lasting effects.

b. However, research has shown numerous adverse effects, both short and long term.

III. (Credibility statement) as a young adult I personally know many people who want this law passed.

a. With my mother being a drug and alcohol counselor I was able to easily get information about the drug.

b. I feel that if people truly were informed about the drug they may feel differently about passing the laws.

IV. (thesis statement) the state of Idaho should not pass recreational marijuana use for the following reasons

a. First, the growing process and chemicals used are unregulated and harmful

b. Marijuana use is harmful to people in the short and long term

c. There are many people who believe the myths about marijuana and are uninformed about the truth

d. If claimed to be for medicinal use there are better ways to treat those problems

Transition: to become educated about marijuana I feel that someone has to know the true harmful effects of marijuana

Body

I. According to Blum, author of marijuana, heaven or hell, the short term side effects of smoking marijuana, although harmful, is what people use it for.

a. The immediate physical short term...