In the midst of the worst recession since the Great Depression, many have pointed to increased legalization or decriminalization of marijuana as being an untapped resource for taxation, and a source of new small business growth and employment. It is estimated that nearly $1 billion per year could be generated in marijuana production upon nationwide legalization with a flat 10% tax on producers. This, of course, coupled with a significant drop in the cost of policing and prosecuting the use of marijuana could lead to net savings.
via blog.turbotax.intuit.com