Marijuana Policy Project writes that “public opinion has steadily become more favorable towards legalization”
Here at Talking Joints Memo, we are laser-focused on the Massachusetts cannabis community and industry, and we pay some attention to our neighbors around New England as well—all while highlighting some of the best state and local reporting happening around the country.
So with so much attention on particular pockets, we often look to national organizations like NORML and the Marijuana Policy Project for a larger perspective. And this past week, the latter released its latest “look at regional legalization trends.” MPP writes:
There are several factors propelling cannabis reform across the United States. Public opinion has steadily become more favorable towards legalization, and according to Gallup polls, more than two-thirds of Americans now support legalizing cannabis for adults’ use, a dramatic increase from decades prior. The potential for tax revenue and economic benefits is also a strong motivator for many states. Additionally, the racial disparities in cannabis arrests are prompting calls for criminal justice reform.
While some states have fully embraced legalization for both medical and recreational use, others have yet to budge on prohibition. This regional breakdown highlights the fragmented nature of cannabis policy in the United States.
In its “Final Thoughts” section, MPP notes:
The United States is witnessing a patchwork of cannabis policies across regions. Over half the U.S. population lives in a legal cannabis state, and states that have legalized cannabis are blue, red, and purple. While some states are embracing comprehensive legalization, others are taking a more cautious approach with medical programs or decriminalization. Public opinion and the success of existing programs are likely to continue driving reform efforts nationwide.
You can read the full report here.
