President Biden has directed federal agencies, including the Department of Justice, to swiftly review the federal classification of marijuana as a substance with no medical benefits. Currently, cannabis remains classified as a Schedule I drug, which is illegal under US law.
These words from President Biden that were issued in November 2022, the date on which according to polls it was shown that 68% of Americans support legalizing cannabis for personal use, including 52% of Republicans.
As of today, the trend of supporting marijuana legalization has also spread to other areas and has become prevalent among Democratic politicians, with some Republicans also endorsing the idea. State governments are struggling to determine whether and how to legalize marijuana, with various bills aimed at decriminalizing it on a federal level being introduced in Congress.
On April 1, 2022, the House passed a bill to decriminalize marijuana, and later, several senators, including Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, presented the Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act, which would decriminalize marijuana at the federal level, according to Marijuana Moment. The outcome of the bill in the Senate remains uncertain.
Joe Biden 420 – marijuana legality
On October 7, 2022, President Joe Biden made a major step towards marijuana legalization by announcing pardons for those convicted of simple possession of marijuana under federal law and asking governors to do the same for state convictions.
The pardon is expected to affect approximately 6,500 Americans, but no one is currently incarcerated for simple possession of marijuana, according to a senior White House official. The debate on the legalization of marijuana continues, with opponents citing concerns about public health and safety, while proponents argue that it is less harmful than alcohol and has therapeutic benefits.
In addition to the benefits mentioned above, proponents of marijuana legalization see it as a source of revenue for states and a necessary step towards social justice. The enforcement of marijuana laws has had a disproportionate impact on minority communities, leading to mass incarceration.
States where marijuana is legal have taken steps to address the negative consequences of prohibition, including provisions to erase low-level marijuana convictions.
A December 2022 study by the American Medical Association showed that full legalization reduces marijuana-related arrests, even in states that have decriminalized the drug, meaning it remains illegal but individuals are not prosecuted for possession of small amounts.
Alaska – State marijuana legality
Alaska permits individuals 21 and older to consume marijuana recreationally. In 2015, the state legalized the use, possession, and transportation of up to one ounce of marijuana for recreational use. The first recreational marijuana shop opened in 2016. Alaska is leveraging this opportunity to attract tourists to its recreational pot shops, attracting over 2 million visitors annually who spend $2 billion.
Alaska legalized marijuana for recreational use on February 24, 2015, becoming the third state in the United States to do so. Under Alaska’s laws, adults aged 21 and over are allowed to possess up to one ounce of marijuana and can grow up to six plants for personal use.
In addition, licensed retail stores are allowed to sell marijuana products, and smoking or consuming marijuana is allowed in private places, but not in public places.
Alaska’s marijuana laws have faced some challenges and adjustments since legalization, including issues related to taxation, regulation, and public safety. However, overall, the state has seen a significant increase in tax revenue and a reduction in arrests related to low-level drug offenses.
Alaska’s decision to legalize marijuana for recreational use was seen as a significant shift in the state’s drug policy, and it continues to be a topic of debate and discussion among lawmakers, advocates, and citizens.
Arizona marijuana legality
Arizona legalized marijuana for adults 21 and over in 2020 through a successful ballot measure, supported by major cannabis companies such as Curaleaf, Cresco, and Harvest Enterprises.
The Arizona Department of Health Services started accepting applications for adult-use licenses on January 19, 2021, and approvals were issued just three days later, leading to immediate sales. Arizona introduced adult-use sales at a faster pace than any other state that voted to pass recreational cannabis during the same elections, allowing companies operating in the medical market to serve recreational customers first.
The legalization of cannabis in Arizona was the result of a citizen initiative, with advocates arguing that it could generate tax revenue, reduce arrests for low-level drug offenses, and provide medical benefits to patients with qualifying conditions. Opponents expressed concerns about public safety, addiction, and the potential for increased use among minors.
Since legalization, Arizona has faced some challenges in implementing its new cannabis laws, including issues related to regulation, taxation, and licensing. Nevertheless, the state’s decision to legalize cannabis for recreational use has been seen as a significant shift in its drug policy, and it continues to be a topic of discussion and scrutiny among lawmakers and citizens alike.
California marijuana legality
California was the pioneer state in legalizing medical marijuana in 1996. In 2016, the state further relaxed its laws by allowing individuals 21 years of age and older to purchase up to 8 grams of marijuana concentrates, consume and possess up to 1 ounce of marijuana, and grow a maximum of 6 marijuana plants per household.
Colorado weed legality
In Colorado, the number of marijuana dispensariese surpasses the combined total of Starbucks and McDonald’s. In 2012, Colorado joined Washington in becoming one of the initial two states to legalize marijuana in its entirety.
Individuals 21 years of age and older, whether residents or tourists, are permitted to purchase up to 1 ounce of marijuana or 8 grams of concentrates. However, certain cities and counties within Colorado have implemented stricter laws.
Illinois Cannabis legality
On June 2019, the state of Illinois passed a bill that legalized both the possession and commercial sale of cannabis. This law went into effect on January 1, 2020. Governor J.B. Pritzker, who had made marijuana legalization a key part of his election platform, signed the bill into law.
Illinois is among a small group of states that have legalized marijuana sales through legislative action, rather than through a public vote. Additionally, optimizing for search engines: Illinois is now one of the leading states in the legalization of marijuana, offering residents and tourists a safe and regulated market for the purchase of cannabis products.
Maine marijuana legality
Maine’s legalization of marijuana has made it a leader in the regulation and control of the cannabis industry, providing safe and accessible options for consumers and businesses alike. On May 2, 2018, the Maine House and Senate voted to override Governor Paul LePage’s veto of LD 1719.
This resulted in the implementation of Chapter 409 Public Law, which mandated the Department of Administration and Financial Services to present the regulations for the legal production and sale of marijuana to the legislature by January 2019.
As a result, marijuana retail shops were expected to open no earlier than spring of that year. The new law also reduced the limit of recreational marijuana possession from 6 mature plants to 3 mature plants.
Maryland marijuana legality
With its legalization of cannabis, Maryland has taken a major step forward in the regulation and control of marijuana, offering a safer and more accessible option for adults.
In Maryland, voters overwhelmingly approved the legalization of cannabis, with a margin of over 65% in favor. The legislation permits adults over the age of 21 to purchase and possess up to 1.5 ounces of cannabis. In addition, the law allows individuals to grow a maximum of two cannabis plants in their homes.
The new law will also eliminate criminal penalties for the possession of up to 2.5 ounces of marijuana. However, further details are still being ironed out to ensure a smooth implementation of the legislation.
Massachusetts weed legality
With its early adoption of marijuana legalization, Massachusetts has set a precedent for other states on the East Coast, offering a safe and regulated market for cannabis products and promoting responsible consumption for adults.
In 2016, became the first state on the East Coast to legalize marijuana after a successful vote by its residents. The implementation of this new law allowed weed dispensaries to open their doors to consumers in November 2018.
In accordance with the law, adults over the age of 21 are permitted to purchase up to 1 ounce of marijuana for personal use. However, it is important to note that consuming marijuana in public is still illegal.
Michigan Cannabis legality
Michigan’s legalization of cannabis has positioned it as a leader in the regulation and control of the cannabis industry, providing a safe and accessible market for adult consumers and promoting responsible consumption.
In 2018, Michigan became the first state in the Midwest to legalize the possession and sale of marijuana for adults over the age of 21, after voters approved Proposition 1. Under this new law, adults are allowed to possess up to 2.5 ounces of marijuana, and residents can cultivate up to 12 plants in their own homes.
Missouri marijuana legality
With its legalization of cannabis, Missouri has taken a significant step in regulating the cannabis industry and promoting safe and responsible consumption. Additionally, the use of tax revenue to expunge the records of nonviolent offenders highlights the state’s commitment to promoting social justice and equality.
In Missouri, voters approved the legalization of cannabis, with a majority of 53% in favor. The new law permits adults over the 21 years of age to possess up to three ounces of marijuana and grow six plants in their own homes.
Additionally, recreational cannabis sales in the state will be taxed at a rate of 6%, with the revenue generated from this tax being used to automatically clear the records of nonviolent marijuana offenders in the state.
Montana marijuana legality
With its recent legalization of recreational marijuana, Montana has joined a growing number of states in regulating the cannabis industry and promoting safe and responsible consumption for adults.
The state’s implementation of legal sales marks a significant milestone in its journey towards a well-controlled and accessible cannabis market. In 2020, Montana voted in favor of legalizing recreational marijuana use for adults aged 21 and above.
As of January 1, 2021, residents of Montana are legally permitted to consume marijuana. By the beginning of 2022, the state had authorized stores to commence sales.
Nevada marijuana legality
Nevada’s regulated and controlled market for recreational marijuana provides adults with safe and accessible options for consumption, while also implementing restrictions on home cultivation to ensure responsible and responsible use.
Adults aged 21 and over, both residents and tourists, are able to purchase up to 1 ounce of marijuana or its equivalent in edibles or concentrates in Nevada. However, for those who wish to cultivate their own marijuana, there is a restriction. In order to obtain a grower’s license, Nevada residents must reside at least 25 miles away from the nearest dispensary.
New Jersey marijuana legality
The legalization of recreational marijuana in New Jersey represents a significant milestone in the state’s cannabis industry and a new era of regulated and responsible use for adults. With the opening of cannabis shops, the Garden State is poised to take advantage of a potentially lucrative market while also promoting safe and responsible use of the drug.
In 2020, New Jersey residents voted in favor of legalizing recreational marijuana for adults aged 21 and over, potentially opening a billion-dollar market.
In February 2021, Governor Phil Murphy signed the legalization bill into law after several months of discussions and debates regarding the penalties for minors possessing marijuana, the establishment of a licensing framework for cannabis sales, and other important details.
This year, the Garden State’s cannabis shops have begun operation, providing adults with safe and regulated access to recreational marijuana.
New Mexico marijuana legality
On April 2020, Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham signed a bill to legalize marijuana in the state, which went into effect on June 29th of the same year. This law permits state residents who are 21 and over to possess and use marijuana, and recreational sales officially commenced on April 1st.
The governor called for a special session of the legislature to clarify the details of the law before it was signed.
New York Weed legality
New York residents can now legally possess and use cannabis after the state passed its recreational weed bill on March 31, 2021. The legal sale of marijuana is expected to commence later this year, with a number of cannabis shops opening their doors before the end of the year, and a larger number of stores set to open in the next year.
The New York Cannabis Control Board Chair, Tremaine Wright, stated in October that the state is actively working towards making the process of legalization and opening of cannabis shops smoother and efficient.
It is important to remember that cannabis cultivation for personal or medicinal use should only be carried out in states or countries where it is legal and under the corresponding laws and regulations. In New York, recreational cannabis cultivation is not yet permitted, although legalization is expected to be approved soon.
If you are an experienced grower in New York, you may be interested in learning about some of the best feminized strains for cultivation. Some of the most popular strains include:
Blue Dream Feminized Seeds
Blue Dream is a popular hybrid marijuana strain that originated in California. It is known for its balanced effect, which combines a relaxing sensation with a surge of creativity and energy, making it ideal for daytime use.
This strain is a cross between Haze and Blueberry, which gives it a sweet and fruity aroma and flavor with hints of berries and citrus. The Blue Dream strain is also characterized by its dense buds covered with trichomes, which gives it a white and shiny appearance.
In addition to its balanced effects and appealing taste, Blue Dream is popular among growers because of its ease of cultivation. It is a hardy and adaptable strain that grows well both indoors and outdoors. It also produces a bountiful harvest and can flower in as little as 8-10 weeks.
The Blue Dream strain is commonly used to treat pain, depression, anxiety and stress. It has also been used to stimulate appetite and improve mood. If you are looking for a balanced, easy to grow strain with an appealing taste, the Blue Dream strain may be a good choice for you.
Girl Scout Cookies – Cannabis Feminized
Girl Scout Cookies is a popular hybrid marijuana strain that has won many awards and followers around the world. It is known for its sweet, fruity taste and its relaxing, euphoric effect, making it ideal for use in times of stress and anxiety.
Girl Scout Cookies feminized seeds are especially popular with growers because they produce female plants that are more likely to produce buds with a high amount of THC. The strain is a cross between OG Kush and Durban Poison, which gives it a sweet and fruity aroma with hints of mint and lemon.
In addition to its appealing taste and effect, Girl Scout Cookies is popular among growers because of its ease of cultivation. It is a hardy strain that grows well both indoors and outdoors, and can produce bumper harvests in as little as 8-9 weeks of flowering.
The Girl Scout Cookies strain is commonly used to treat pain, anxiety, depression and insomnia. It has also been used to stimulate appetite and relieve nausea. If you are looking for a high quality hybrid strain that is easy to grow and produces a relaxing and euphoric high, Girl Scout Cookies feminized seeds may be an excellent choice for you.
White Widow – Weed Old School
White Widow is a very popular hybrid marijuana strain, known for its balanced effect and unique taste. It is a classic strain that has been very popular since its creation in the 1990s.
White Widow feminized seeds are especially popular with growers because they produce female plants that are more likely to produce dense, resinous buds. The strain is a cross between a Brazilian strain and a South Indian strain, giving it a sweet, floral flavor and aroma with earthy, spicy undertones.
In addition to its appealing taste and effect, White Widow is popular among growers because of its ease of cultivation. It is a hardy and adaptable strain that grows well both indoors and outdoors, and can produce a bumper harvest in as little as 8-10 weeks of flowering.
The White Widow strain is commonly used to treat pain, anxiety, stress and depression. It has also been used to stimulate appetite and improve mood. If you are looking for a high quality hybrid strain that is easy to grow and produces a balanced effect, White Widow feminized seeds may be an excellent choice for you.
Oregon Marijuana Legalized
In 2015, the state of Oregon legalized marijuana, making it one of the pioneers in the US in terms of cannabis legalization.
The sales of recreational marijuana began on October 1st of that year. With the legalization of marijuana, adults over the age of 21 were allowed to possess and purchase up to 1 ounce of marijuana flower or 5 grams of concentrates in the state.
The marijuana industry in Oregon has seen significant growth since legalization, generating millions of dollars in tax revenue and creating thousands of jobs.
Rhode Island Marijuana Legalized
On May 25, 2022, Rhode Island Governor Dan McKee signed into law the legalization of marijuana, making it the latest state to allow its residents to legally possess and use cannabis.
The new law also includes the expungement of past marijuana convictions, giving those affected a fresh start. While cannabis shops are yet to open in the state, residents can expect them to become available in a few months’ time.
Vermont Marijuana Legalized
In January 2018, Vermont made history by becoming the first state to legalize marijuana through legislative action, instead of a voter initiative. The state’s Republican Governor, Phil Scott, signed the bill into law.
As of July 2018, adults in Vermont are allowed to carry up to 1 ounce of marijuana and cultivate no more than two plants for personal use. However, the law did not establish a legal market for the production and sale of the drug.
In 2020, the state legislature passed a bill that permits adult-use sales of marijuana, however, localities must opt-in for cannabis dispensaries to be established. Vermont began retail sales of marijuana earlier this year.
Virginia Marijuana Legalized
In July 2021, Virginia became one of the latest states to legalize the use of marijuana, with a majority of state legislators approving Governor Ralph Northam’s proposal ahead of the original timeline set by the legislation. Under the new law, Virginians over the age of 21 are now legally allowed to consume, possess and grow marijuana. The state is expected to launch its regulated cannabis market in the near future.
Washington Marijuana Legalized
The state of Washington legalized the recreational use of marijuana in 2012. Individuals over the age of 21 are allowed to possess up to 1 ounce of cannabis, however, those wishing to cultivate their own marijuana must have a medical recommendation and secure a grower’s license.
Washington DC Marijuana Legalized
Washington D.C. legalized recreational marijuana in 2014, following a successful vote by the district’s residents. The law, which went into effect in 2015, permits individuals to possess a maximum of 2 ounces of marijuana and gift up to an ounce as long as no money, goods, or services are involved in the exchange.
