Observer editorial: The 21st century Prohibition

Being located in such close proximity to the state of Colorado, it is not hard to find onself in the midst of a discussion concering the matter of marijuana use, or decriminalization of drugs.

Forty-two years ago, then-President Richard Nixon famously declared a “war on drugs.” Despite his (and his successors’) noble intentions, this war has grown larger, fiercer and more dangerous in the decades that followed his declaration.

It is estimated that the United States spends over $40 billion each year on the war on drugs. This includes police spending, court costs to try drug users and t...