Marijuana: It’s Time for a Conversation

Across the nation, people are beginning to reconsider our marijuana laws. In 2006, America set a new record by arresting over 800,000 individuals for marijuana offenses; 89% of these arrests were for simple possession only. Marijuana remains as available as ever through an unregulated illegal market. Enforcement of marijuana laws costs taxpayers billions of dollars each year – precious public safety resources that could be directed toward more important priorities and more effective policies.

“Marijuana: It’s Time for a Conversation” invites viewers to consider whether these laws are working for us or against us.

• What does marijuana law enforcement cost us in tax dollars?
• How effective is prohibition at controlling marijuana use and availability?
• What are the social consequences of marijuana prohibition?
• Are the consequences of marijuana arrests and convictions fair? Are the laws applied fairly to all Americans?
• How did we end up with these laws in the first place?
• Is marijuana prohibition doing more harm than good?

Sponsored by the American Civil Liberties Union and featuring noted travel writer and television host Rick Steves,
“Marijuana: It’s Time for a Conversation” begins a long-overdue public discussion about marijuana and marijuana prohibition.