What is marijuana? It is a psychotropic drug, simply meaning it alters brain functions. In users you will see changes in mood, perception, cognitive functions and behavior. For now, it is the most common illicit drug among young Americans.

We've all heard that marijuana is not bad. We've heard that it can be compared to alcohol or even tobacco. There is one point that most seem to over look. Marijuana is still illegal on the federal level. California seems to be the front runner of states looking at ways to profit from this illegal drug. There are 13 states that have followed California's lead and two more are now considering the legalization. In these tough economic times I can see why we would look at marijuana to create new tax revenue.

Whether you support the legalization of marijuana or not you'll find statistics to prove your point. I want to dive into one issue that surrounds this controversial subject. Is marijuana truly victimless?

We need to look no further than the Mexican and United States border. There is a war going on and illegal narcotics, to include marijuana, are at the fore front of this fight. From a period of October 1, 2009 through April 20, 2010 the Tucson Sector of the United States Border Patrol seized almost 622,000 pounds of marijuana exceeding an estimated $498,000,000 in street value. This is just one small portion of a border that spans nearly 2,000 miles. Some people would make the argument that the issue on the border is one of illegal immigration. In part, this is the case. However, we need to look at the whole picture.

California imposes a $50 per ounce tax, $5,000 franchise fee for growers and wholesalers and a $2,500 annual licensing fee. This, in essence, is allowing the state to become a legalized drug dealer. There are several issues with the government regulating this industry.

• How can California guarantee that the product that is being distributed on its street is of good quality?
• What testing and standards are in place to ensure the safety of the people consuming marijuana being legally sold?