Mexico Watches California Decide on Marijuana Legalization

California will decide in two weeks if recreational use of marijuana should be legal, according to the New York Times. Recent polls in the states have shown it's going to be a close call at the voting booths. Mexico is now considering the possible repercussions this will have on the country that faces serious repercussions as a result of the drug war with the U.S. Americans chafe at the crimes drugs encourage; kidnappings, murders, and the drugs themselves. Mexico is also dealing with the consequences of the drug war, as America is the chief demand for the drugs, resulting in 30,000 Mexican deaths in the past 4 years because of drug related violence. California has allowed medical use of marijuana to be legal since 1996, and recently made the sale of marijuana the equivalent to a speeding ticket instead of a misdemeanor. Across the border, Mexico is mirroring the U.S. as it removes the penalties for possession of small quantities of drugs like cocaine, heroin, and marijuana. Selling them however remains prohibited. That may be as far as Mexico is willing to go however, as Mexico's President, Felipe Calderon, is staunchly opposed to legalization and is disgruntled at a possible yes in California. While many of Felipe Calderon's fellow political elites are pushing for legalization, the country shows very little support for the change, especially outside Mexico City. Despite this, Mexico is known for social reform from the top down, rather than the reverse as seen in the U.S. Advocates for legalization say the tax revenue would benefit both sides, and the illegal drug cartels would be crippled by a legal market. U.S. federal officials do not see the supposed benefits to this and promise to prosecute those caught in possession. Compared to the legalization of alcohol in the 30's, the legalization of marijuana in the United States may tear a rift in Mexico and other countries, as Mexico is still considered weak and unable to collect most of the taxes it levies now. With legalization the possibility of more people taking drugs to escape their problems could get worse as well, and Mexico's lack of recovery groups may lead to an even more desperate population.

by Margaret Nunne