A more cynical interpretation is that normally non-enforced laws are a great way for the government to provide extra pressure when desired. It's not just stodgy

A more cynical interpretation is that normally non-enforced laws are a great way for the government to provide extra pressure when desired. It's not just stodgy politicians, but massive federal agencies with vested interest keeping the status quo. Say the FBI wants info from a person and can use recreational Marijuana procession as a nice leverage point, etc.