Final answer:
Marijuana is indeed the most commonly used illegal drug in the United States, with numerous arrests related to its possession and usage. Public opinion has shifted towards favoring its legalization, and many states now allow its use in some form, though it remains a Schedule 1 drug federally.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that marijuana is the most commonly used illegal drug in the United States is considered to be true. Despite fluctuating laws regarding marijuana use, possession, and production, it has been the subject of numerous arrests. According to the FBI, about 1.5 million people are arrested each year for drug abuse violations, with marijuana-related offenses being the most numerous.
Public perception regarding marijuana has been changing, and a Pew Research Center survey from 2013 showed that for the first time, a majority of Americans supported the legalization of marijuana. In the past, stereotypes and racial prejudices strongly influenced attitudes towards cannabis use.
Currently, marijuana is legal in some form in nearly every state in the United States with only a few exceptions. Although legality varies by state, it is remarkable considering that just a decade or two ago, public opinion and policy were much less favorable. Moreover, marijuana continues to be classified as a Schedule 1 substance under federal law, creating conflicts between federal and state regulations.