Exploring the Cost of an Ounce of Weed
It may come as no surprise that the cost of an ounce of weed can vary drastically, depending on the state. In some cases, the cost of an ounce of weed can be as low as $300, while in other cases, it can reach up to $480. Prices are determined by a variety of factors, including taxes, decriminalization, and legalization.
In New Jersey, for example, an ounce of cannabis plus tax can cost up to $480. According to John Goldstein, a local activist and marijuana policy specialist, “That's what a $480 ounce of cannabis plus tax looks like to a working class person in New Jersey today.” A bill was passed in New Jersey that allows adults to purchase up to one ounce of cannabis or five grams of concentrate, with no more than one ounce of marijuana or its equivalent in retail.
In Indiana, two bills were introduced in late 2019 that would legalize the possession of one ounce or less of marijuana. The first bill, introduced by Mike Bohacek (R-District 8), would decriminalize the possession of one ounce or less of marijuana. Bohacek also introduced Senate Bill 82, which would legalize the possession, purchase and cultivation of marijuana for adults 21 and older.
In Colorado, where recreational marijuana sales began in 2018, the average retail price of an ounce of marijuana was around $400. In addition, Colorado lawmakers passed a bill that stated that in cases of one ounce or less, marijuana delivered or possessed with intent to deliver with no remuneration shall not be prosecuted.
In other states such as Ohio, lawmakers have started to pre-file marijuana law reform bills. If passed, the law would allow individuals 21 and over to possess up to 2.5 ounces of cannabis flower or 15 grams of concentrate.
With the ongoing legalization of marijuana in the U.S., more states are getting on board. In Connecticut, for example, the first day of retail cannabis sales at RISE in Branford on January 1, 2020 saw customers queuing up to make a purchase of an eighth of an ounce of flower.
In addition, companies such as Jones Soda Company are introducing new products to meet the demand. In October, the company introduced new super-sized 16-ounce cans of THC versions of its drinks.
The cost of an ounce of weed is determined by a variety of factors that vary from state to state. Whether it is the taxes, decriminalization, or legalization, the cost of an ounce of weed can be anywhere from $300 to $480. As more states move towards legalization of marijuana, the cost of an ounce of weed will likely continue to fluctuate.
