When this year began, many thought the presidential election would influence legalization. Candidates soon became distracted with and prioritized their campaigns around the pandemic and resulting economic fallout. With the election fast approaching neither presidential candidate has taken a clearly defined stance towards marijuana legalization.
2020 is shaping up to be a potentially “big” year for cannabis reform. With marijuana legalization and decriminalization gaining public approval, politicians are responding.
At the federal level, a vote is scheduled in the senate that would decriminalize marijuana. The historic Marijuana Opportunity, Reinvestment and Expungement (MORE) Act is the first of its kind to reach a Senate vote. If passed, the bill would establish a process to expunge prior convictions and regulate the cannabis industry in a way comparable to tobacco.
Meanwhile, states continue to push forward their own marijuana reform votes. At the time of this writing, 7 states are preparing to vote on marijuana laws.
States Voting On Marijuana Legalization in 2020
Votes on legislation are happening across the country in November. Here’s what you need to know:
State | Legislation Change | Proposed Bill |
Arizona | Recreational | Smart & Safet Arizona Act |
Montana | Recreational | CI-118 & I-190 |
Mississippi | Medical | Initiative 65 & Initiative 65A |
Nebraska | Medical | Nebraska Medical Cannabis Constitutional Amendment |
New Jersey | Recreational | SCR 183 |
Oregon | Decriminalize (All drugs) | Drug Addiction Treatment and Recovery Act |
South Dakota | Recreational & Medical | Initiated Measure 26 & Constitutional Amendment A |
What Does This Mean For The Future Of Marijuana Laws?
Cannabis agendas change every year. Whatever the outcome, the MORE Act’s introduction alone is proof of a shifting political landscape.
Meanwhile, measures on state ballots continue to push for cannabis reform. States that rejected cannabis programs just a few years ago are now voting on instituting recreational use.
It’s hard to predict what will happen next when it comes to marijuana laws and regulations. The cannabis industry showing its resiliency is constantly adapting to the latest policy advancements and setbacks.
Public opinion is increasingly in favor of marijuana legalization. The MORE Act and state ballot updates are proof that politicians are paying attention.
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