For many years the government of our country and those of others have penalized their citizens for the use of marijuana. Millions of dollars every year are spent to regulate these laws and punishing offenders. Millions of dollars that are wasted on imprisoning non-violent marijuana offenders. People, that if not imprisoned would be productive members of society. Imagine if you will, the beginning of this country, the founding fathers, had been subject to the terms of the current marijuana legislation, this country would not be what we know today. Government, private, and scientific studies have shown the minimal negative affects, potential medical uses, and economical benefits legalization can provide. I am not advocating that anyone should or shouldn't use marijuana. I am however saying that anyone using it in a responsible way should not be punished for it. If regulated like alcohol is, marijuana would offer revenue for federal, state and local projects and communities. It's Time for a change! I demand the decriminalization, legalization, regulation and taxation of marijuana, and I expect our lawmakers to heed this call.