Here is what you need to know about the legalization of marijuana in the US.
- Marijuana is legal in a few states
It is essential to understand that as much as there is a wave of the legalization of cannabis, its use is not legal in all states. Only in 18 states, people can search for “dispensary near me” and
get the products for recreation.
Stay updated with the legalization status of the product to avoid getting into trouble with the authorities.
- There are restrictions
One would assume the decriminalization of marijuana means they get to use it anywhere and as much as they wish to. Well, that is not the case. Note that as much as it is legal, there are rules and restrictions to its use.
For instance, one is only allowed to hold specific amounts of the product at a time. This rule also varies with the state. Also, there are age limits when it comes to consumption. In most states, cannabis dispensaries are not allowed to sell to persons below the age of 21.
There are also restrictions to where you are allowed to use the products. In most states, the use of the product is not permitted in public spaces or prohibited areas, even if it is a residential property.
- There is growing support for the legalization of marijuana
Cannabis, both medical and recreational, is legal in certain states due to the pressure put on state governments. The support has been ongoing for the past two decades and is not about to stop. It is happening all over the world too.
Worth noting also is the fact that the support also varies with different demographic groups. For instance, most senior citizens who support the movement are only interested in medical marijuana. Support for the legalization of recreational marijuana, on the other hand, mostly comes from the younger demographic.
- Marijuana is still illegal on the federal level
It may come as a surprise that marijuana is illegal in the federal government’s eyes despite being legal in 18 states. Well, it is categorized as a Schedule 1 drug, citing it as a product that is highly likely to be abused and with no medical importance.
The good news is that producers and sellers of marijuana products are still protected in accordance to the relevant state laws.
Conclusion
The marijuana legalization conversation still has a long way to go. As much as the product is legal in several states, the freedom of its use is limited. This means that other possibilities like marijuana-induced economic growth are also restricted.
Take time to read and understand marijuana laws in the different states.