The ASU West campus was the site of a heated debate about legalizing marijuana that mainly focused on the successes and failures of Colorado's policy.
The event was open to the public and featured two people on each side of the debate, which was moderated by director of ASU’s Center for Applied Behavioral Health Policy, Michael Shafer.
ASU psychology professor Foster Olive also said he is not in favor of legalization, because there are already too many intoxicating substances out there for students already.
“I wouldn’t sleep if I voted in favor of legalizing marijuana,” he said.
Yavapai County Attorney Sheila Polk made it clear that she wanted what was best for the students and that legalizing marijuana would just increase the number of kids using marijuana she said.
“Legalizing marijuana is like playing Russian Roulette with our kids’ future,” she said.
She also said she feels that what she is saying is getting to the students, because many of them spoke with her after the debate and agreed with some of the statements she made.
Polk also said that there are flaws in Colorado's law and that there has been an increase in crime.
On the side of the debate for legalizing marijuana was Aaron Smith, who is the co-founder and executive director of the National Cannabis Industry Association. He replied to Polk by saying the crime in Colorado is not up, and then told her to, “Google it"
Helping Smith in this debate was professor at the College of Colorado Santiago Guerra, who said marijuana is bringing in more money for college students due to the tax revenue.
Guerra said he believed the debate went very well, but some major issues and topics were not addressed, such as the incarceration of individuals for the possession of marijuana.
“With the legalization of marijuana, folks will be protected,” he said. “Specifically marginalized groups such as African-Americans and Mexicans.”
The debated ended with both sides shaking hands and pictures with students.
Reach the reporter at William.a.parker@asu.edu
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