Ever since the 1970s, if not before, when marijuana was classified as a type one drug, there has been a huge debate on whether medical marijuana should be allowed and government-restricted.

Yes, without a doubt, medical marijuana needs to be allowed for everyone who needs or could benefit from it, and currently over half the U.S. allows medical cannabis use.

On Sep. 25, 2015, in Mundelein, a local dispensary opened on 1325 Armour Blvd, and it seems the public continues to approve of its existence.

Some say they approve because of the new possibilities for those battling illnesses.

Most people who seek medical marijuana do so because nothing else has worked or because other treatments are too expensive and/or dangerous. For example, some people don’t have insurance, and their Medicare doesn’t cover the cost of their treatment expenses. Others who suffer from smaller inconveniences, like chronic migraines, can take cannabis rather than constantly taking dangerous amounts of other pain relievers.

In November 2002, the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) stated that marijuana use has been declared beneficial in incidents dealing with small issues related to pain and nausea to effects of harsh illnesses, including those from Multiple Sclerosis, epilepsy and even Alzheimer’s Disease.

“I don’t believe something that has medical purpose for [any]one should be illegal,” said Robert Hughes, a staff member in the art department.

I realize some don’t agree because they believe that the use of medical cannabis leads to addiction and harsher drug use.

But they don’t realize that cannabis is taken in small amounts at a time. Not to mention that most forms of medicinal cannabis are taken in non-smokable forms like concentrates and extracts.

Also, medical marijuana is regulated, as a person needs a prescription from a doctor to take it, and/or must have a medical marijuana card and is under medical supervision while taking it.

Although many don’t believe in cannabis as a proper medical tool, the benefits clearly outweigh the drawbacks.

“How can something that treats an illness not be available for those who need it?” said Brian Packowitz, Spanish teacher.

The Mundelein dispensary will stay open, as it has become very convenient for many people. It’s created new business and a flow in the economy.  Additionally, it is helping many sick people, not just from Mundelein, but also from other suburbs nearby. More people need to be open-minded about subjects like medical cannabis and realize that it can do more good than bad.