As the idea of Michigan legalizing marijuana in 2016 becomes more of a reality with each passing day, lawmakers are coming forward in support of this reform because they believe the additional tax revenue will be good for the state.

Representative Brandon Dillon told WZZM earlier last week that decriminalization works to a degree, but Michigan needs a cannabis market in order better the state’s financial situation. He wants residents to consider the big picture, and not focus on some of the negative connotations that often get brought up with this debate.

"I think even people who are somewhat uncomfortable with the notion of legalization understand that what we are doing right now is not working," Dillon said. Continuing to direct precious resources to prosecute people for marijuana offenses is not in anyone's best interests."

Although Dillon claims the tax revenue will not be enough to fix all of the state’s issues, it will have a positive impact on most taxpayers.

"The revenue from regulating and taxing marijuana is not going to be enough to fix the road problem, to fund public education or make sure we can fully fund police and fire services in our communities," he continued. "But given the amount of revenue that's been created in some of those other states that have legalized marijuana, I think that will go a long way toward easing the burden on middle class taxpayers."

Recent polls indicate that just over half of Michigan residents support legalization. Dillon believes the right initiative would be approved by voters.

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