Politics & Government

Should Rhode Island Legalize Pot?

A recent report found the move would generate up to $82 million in annual tax revenue for the state.

State lawmakers this session are considering legislation to legalize marijuana.

A recent report found the move would generate up to $82 million in annual tax revenue for the state. Lawmakers said that figure would be closer to $26 million.

In Colorado, where marijuana was recently legalized, tax revenue from pot sales was $3.2 million in February, according to the Denver Post. That figure was lower than the state's estimate of $3.7 million.

In Rhode Island, legalization advocates say the added tax revenue would bolster the state's faltering economy. The state's unemployment rate is the highest in the nation at 9.2 percent, according to the latest federal figures.

Opponents say legalization would make the drug more attractive to teenagers.

Should Rhode Island legalize marijuana? Share your opinion in the comments below.


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