The gateway theory has been disproven time and time again. And yes, it is illegal, but so is operating a lemonade stand without getting inspected by the health inspector, without the proper licenses, etc, etc. So is driving at 14, but people do that to prepare for driving. THC, CBD, and other cannabinoids are not even REMOTELY related to alkaloids like cocaine, morphine, etc. so it can't be a gateway drug. However, people that smoke cigarettes are more likely to get addicted to cocaine. Is that a valid reason to ban tobacco?