Even though the use of marijuana, whether recreational or medicinal, has been a contentious issue in the USA, the support for marijuana legalization has become a mainstream topic among politicians. For instance, state legislation has made it easier for states to legalize and oversee the use of marijuana. Ever since California became the first state to legalize the use of medical marijuana in 1996, there has been an upward trend in the number of states that legalize weed. With this in mind, the following is a list of some states that have legalized the use of marijuana.
States that Legalize Weed
Alaska
Alaska is one of the states that legalized weed in 2015. Through the current legislation, people in Alaska can use, sell, transport, and possess recreational marijuana. However, one should not possess or transport more than an ounce of marijuana. In addition, there is an excise tax levied on any business entity that sells or buys marijuana.
Arizona
In 2020, Arizona voted to legalize marijuana use for anyone above 21. Nearly 60% of Arizona residents supported this initiative.
California
California was the first state to legalize medical marijuana in the USA. In 2016, it made it legal for its residents to carry up to an ounce of marijuana. Additionally, anyone above the age of 21 can buy up to 8 grams of marijuana and grow no more than six different marijuana plants per household. A standard sales tax of 15% is imposed on dispensaries selling marijuana.
Nevada
Nevada legalized the sale, possession, and use of medical marijuana in 2016. This allows adults over 21 years to possess up to an ounce of marijuana and up to 8 ounces of concentrated marijuana. Adults are also permitted to grow up to 6 plants of marijuana or 12 plants per household. However, it is illegal to use marijuana in cars or public places. In addition, retail sales attract up to 10% excise duty on top of other state sales taxes.
Colorado
In November 2012, Colorado legislatures made it legal for anyone above the age of 21 to possess up to an ounce of marijuana and grow up to six plants of marijuana in their household. However, it is illegal to use marijuana in public. Licensed dispensaries are also subjected to standard sales tax and an additional 10% marijuana sales tax. There is also a 15% excise duty applied to any business dealing with the wholesale distribution of marijuana.
Washington
In 2012, Washington made it legal for anyone above the age of 21 to buy and possess up to an ounce of marijuana. Additionally, one can have up to 16 ounces of marijuana-infused edibles, 7 grams of marijuana concentrates, and 72 ounces of marijuana-infused liquified products. It is illegal to smoke marijuana in public, and recreational users are not allowed to grow marijuana plants at home. There is a 37% exercise duty imposed on dispensaries selling marijuana.
Michigan
Michigan passed its legislation in 2018. This allowed adults to grow, transport, possess and consume marijuana. The law also allows individuals to grow up to 12 plants of marijuana and be in possession of 2.5 ounces and 15 grams of concentrated marijuana. Since 2019, the Marijuana Regulatory Agency has been issuing licenses to business entities that want to invest in marijuana.
Illinois
Illinois allows its residents above the age of 21 to possess up to 30 grams of marijuana and 5 grams of concentrated cannabis. Adults who are not residents of Illinois can possess half the amount possessed by residents. However, consumption remains illegal in public places. Sales taxes are imposed on marijuana sales, and the tax imposed is determined by the level of THC available in marijuana. Marijuana with more than 35% THC is taxed 25%, while anything less than 25% THC is taxed 10%.
Oregon
In Oregon, adults above the age of 21 can buy, possess, and use up to an ounce of marijuana if they are in public and up to 8 ounces of marijuana if they are at home. Adults can also grow up to 4 plants of marijuana at home. Marijuana retail sales attract a 17% duty, with counties and cities having the option to impose a further 3% tax.
Washington DC
Medical marijuana use and sale were legalized in November 2014. Unfortunately, recreational marijuana use is not legalized. Anyone who uses marijuana for medicinal purposes can possess up to 2 ounces of marijuana. Adults are also allowed to grow up to six marijuana plants.
Maine
Maine legalized the sale, transportation, and use of marijuana in November 2016. As a result, it is legal to possess up to 2.5 ounces of marijuana and grow up to 6 marijuana plants. As a regulated market, there is a 15% exercise duty and 10% sales tax imposed on the sale of marijuana.
Massachusetts
Massachusetts is one of the states that legalized weed in November 2016, thus making it legal for anyone above the age of 21 to possess up to 10 ounces of marijuana. Home cultivation is also allowed, and residents can grow up to 12 plants per household, provided more than two people live in the household. Marijuana sales attract a standard state sales tax and a 10.75% state exercise tax. Cities and towns can also levy a 3% tax on marijuana sales.
Parting Shot
The legalization of marijuana in these states is a clear indication that there are more benefits associated with the use of marijuana than there are disadvantages. Therefore, if you are looking for medical marijuana certificates, call The Medical Marijuana Doctor. We are located in Coral Springs, Fl, you can reach us at (954) 994-7002.