Marijuana is a multibillion-dollar industry, and more states, such as Florida, Minnesota, Ohio and Pennsylvania, could soon legalize weed. As of now, 36 states and Washington, D.C., have legalize medical marijuana, and 15 states and Washington, D.C., have legalize recreational marijuana. This growing number of states legalizing marijuana has led to a significant expansion of the industry and created new opportunities for buyers, sellers, and investors.
ST. PAUL, Minn. -- The Minnesota House on Tuesday passed a 300-page bill that would allow adults 21 and older to buy, sell and use marijuana. The bill now heads to the Senate, where it faces a tougher battle. If it passes, Minnesota could become the 16th state to legalize recreational marijuana. The bill also includes provisions for expunging past marijuana convictions, setting up a regulatory system, and creating a tax on marijuana sales.
Cannabis aficionados in 20-plus states and Washington, D.C., will be able to buy marijuana legally for Thursday's high-flying informal holiday, but activists say the day is about more than getting stoned. April 20, or 420, is a day of celebration for marijuana enthusiasts, a day to advocate for legalization, and a day to remember those who have been impacted by the war on drugs.
The use and possession of marijuana is illegal under U.S. federal law, but in recent years a growing number of states have legalize the drug for medical and recreational use. While the legalization movement has made significant strides, there are still many challenges that must be overcome before marijuana is fully legal nationwide. Many states still have strict laws governing the use and possession of marijuana, and the federal government could still crack down on states that have legalize marijuana.
The governor said in a statement that the debate has gone on for far too long, and though he still opposes legalization, he won't stop it from becoming law. New York's first legal marijuana dispensaries are now up and running. But with the opportunity for both consumers and sellers comes the need for education about the laws surrounding the use and sale of marijuana in the state.
Delaware Gov. John Carney said Friday he will let bills to legalize marijuana and create a recreational industry become law without his signature. Delaware is now the 16th state to legalize recreational marijuana. The new law allows people 21 and older to possess up to an ounce of marijuana for personal use. The law also allows for the creation of a regulated industry to grow, process, and sell marijuana.
With more states authorizing the use of marijuana, the public continues to favor legalizing it for medical and recreational purposes. A recent poll found that 68% of Americans support legalizing marijuana, and 91% support legalizing medical marijuana. As more states legalize marijuana, it is likely that public support for legalization will continue to grow.
WILMINGTON, Del. (CBS) -- recreational marijuana is now legal in Delaware. While some believe this will bring in a lot of 'green' for the state, others worry about the potential negative effects of legalizing marijuana. Supporters of legalization argue that it will help reduce drug-related crime, generate tax revenue for the state, and provide medical benefits to those who need it. Opponents argue that it will lead to increased drug use, particularly among young people, and could lead to an increase in traffic accidents and other negative consequences.
