A projection of sales tax
revenue from legalizing marijuana in California is over half a
billion annually. San Diego County did not have a legally licensed
way to purchase medical marijuana until July 1st, 2014
when Outliers Collective (OUTCO) opened for business in El Cajon.
Legal licensing allows patients to receive safe and tested medicine
adhering to zoning laws and permits with tax collection to give back
to the community.
Californians benefit from
state and local funds for the success of their community. Seventy
percent of tax revenue goes back to local use. 50% goes to
education, 30% going to health and human services and 10% going to
law enforcement and corrections.
Since 1980 has increased
1400% or four times the increased rate of other spending by the state
government.(Source)
One important addition to legalization of marijuana would include a
savings in millions of dollars by a reduction in law enforcement for
possession crimes. (Source)
California stands to also save millions on reduced drug enforcement
for small drug possession crimes with a yes vote on Proposition 47
that will be voted on November 4, 2014.(Source)
Crime rates of theft have reduced by 5% in Colorado since the
inception of legalization of recreational marijuana.(Source)
Legally licensed dispensaries increase visibility of the
establishment and reduces hidden shops that can lead to crime and
unsafe conditions.
Legalizing marijuana sales
offers numerous jobs to the community. Since Colorado's recreational
marijuana legalization, 10,000 jobs were added and they enjoy the
lowest unemployment rate since the beginning of the recession,
6%.(Source)
Marijuana employees payroll tax deductions will bring in an
additional revenue to the state. Additional contracted people will
be hired like architects, construction and many other industries will
benefit from the added growth and building needed for this growing
industry.
Source:
http://www.hightimes.com/read/colorado-legal-pot-sales-creates-thousands-new-jobs
