Marijuana legalization heats things up in the fireplace lounge

This past Wednesday, March 1st, Plymouth State University's Robert Frost Speech and Debate Society hosted a public debate on the legalization of marijuana in the United States. The debate was held in the HUB Fireplace Lounge and split the debate team into opposing views. 

Debate President Michael DiTommaso and PSU Junior Debate Team member Jenny Fogg, were dressed in their best as they debated in opposition to the legalization of Marijuana, while PSU Sophomore Penina Wallace and PSU British exchange student Ben Mumford fought in favor of legalization.

 Fogg and DiTommaso supported their claim with evidence of physical and psychological harm to users claiming any drug that is being used as an escape is harmful. This was quickly counteracted with facts from the affirmative side about the harm that legalized substances, such as tobacco and alcohol, cause everyday. 

Fogg retaliated by stating that just because harmful substances are currently legalized, doesn't mean the United States should add more to that list. Fogg also went on to say, "marijuana can have short and long term effects including memory loss and damage to the brain, heart and lungs."

DiTommaso also stated that, "marijuana can temporarily put someone out of touch with reality." The specific downfall was dropped, as Mumford asked, "have you ever been drunk?"

Wallace and Mumford continued to support their argument with economical benefits. They claimed that the legalization of marijuana would create new jobs for producers, buyers and sellers. Wallace also made the argument that agricultural tax revenues could also improve with just a 10% tax on marijuana. 

Wallace when on and stated that state prisons would make better usage of jail and prison space, "Shouldn't we make more room for violent acts and sex offenders, rather than people who are involved with Marijuana?" 

During her rebuttal, Fogg brought up the valid point that Wallace had stated "involving marijuana" and that means that the substance can act as a negative influence in violent acts. 

Following the debate, a majority of PSU students had similar opinions involving the issue.  "I am for legalization but was shocked at the valid rebuttals of the opposing side," said PSU Senior Bobby Minchello. PSU Senior Lee Nangeroni, shared similar views as she said, "I am for legalization, but believe there should be an age restriction and laws involving driving, but overall, I'm in favor of legalization as a recreational and medicinal drug". 

Advisor and coach of the PSU debate team Scott Maltese said "it was great turn out I'm pleased with the amount of students interested in the subject". Along with coaching the PSU debate team, he is also a high school teacher and said that was a big influence in choosing the topic to address to the student body. The debate team is expected to host their next forum on March 30th and rumors have it that the topic will tackle the infamous Obama Care policy. To find out more about The Robert Frost Speech and Debate Society, contact President Michael DiTommaso at mdditommaso@mail.plymouth.edu.