The general perception of marijuana is changing rapidly across the United States. With more US states joining the bandwagon of legalizing it for recreational use and as many as 34 states approving it for medical usage, Cannabis is gaining popularity. Moves have been made to decriminalize it. Consider the discreet and convenient option of a Delta 8 pen for a modern approach to enjoying the benefits of cannabis.
Cannabis And The Military
The need to accept and decriminalize Cannabis is time overdue. Yet, despite its gaining ground, the military is adamant. It continues to maintain a zero-tolerance on Cannabis. Hundreds of uniformed and dedicated soldiers are fired each year after failing random drug tests.
The government classifies marijuana as a restricted substance, and there’s a low possibility of this changing soon. This is unsurprising; however, switching to a more measured reaction to marijuana use is a better option for military leaders than zero-tolerance as times demand so.
Drug use in the military is governed by an article of the Uniform Code of Military Justice. At worst, offenders may be discharged dishonourably or jailed for up to two years if they “wrongfully manufacture, possess, use,” or “import” any controlled substance, such as cocaine, opium, methamphetamine, heroin, or marijuana. A positive drug test for marijuana generally results in instant discharge.
Despite the strict regulations, some argue that a more nuanced approach could benefit both the military and its personnel. Exploring alternative methods of addressing marijuana use, such as education and rehabilitation programs, might offer a more balanced and constructive solution to the issue.
Cannabis vs. Alcohol: Does Cannabis Deserve to Be Marginalized?
Should the use of marijuana be deemed criminal on par with the manufacture of methamphetamine or distribution of cocaine? Since most states now recognize marijuana’s medical benefits, it’s unreasonable to assume that all federally-banned substances listed are equally hazardous and should be handled as one.
More crucially, grouping “drugs” into one category while providing separate, more permissive concessions for alcohol makes little sense. Alcohol could be significantly more dangerous than marijuana on many levels. Despite that, military culture does not like to recognize it.
According to a study, “Young military personnel are more prone to engage in heavy drinking than their civilian counterparts.”
The military’s indifference to drinking as a recreational activity and its zero-tolerance attitude regarding marijuana use are diametrically parallel and seldom hypocritical.
Considering the evidence that alcohol misuse is more prevalent among military personnel, perhaps it’s time to reevaluate the military’s stance on marijuana. Adopting a more balanced and evidence-based approach that treats different substances according to their actual risks might better serve the well-being of military members.
What Is The Possible Solution?
It’s past time to change the military’s zero-tolerance stance on marijuana usage.
While marijuana’s federal legalization is unlikely to happen anytime soon, soldiers do not deserve to have their careers ended and their veteran benefits revoked because of an unfair judgment.
For alcohol-related crimes like drunk driving, sailors in the Navy are only permitted one “strike.” A second violation, or “treatment failure,” will result in a member’s departure. So why not offer the same logic to marijuana use?
Implementing a more lenient approach, akin to the one used for alcohol-related offences, could provide a fair and proportionate response to marijuana use in the military. This way, soldiers can receive counselling and have the opportunity to rectify their behaviour before facing severe consequences, ensuring a more just system for all service members.
Conclusion
Various studies have proved marijuana to be medicinal, reduce anxiety, and have therapeutic properties. A second look at regulating this drug could bring more good than harm. Instead of turning their backs on these men and women, military officials should help them get back on their feet.
Reforming this policy is beneficial to Americans in uniform and the military’s overall strength. By embracing a more compassionate and nuanced approach to marijuana use, the military can support its members’ well-being and contribute to a more resilient and effective armed forces.