Despite about a dozen bills at the Statehouse this legislative session, the push to legalize cannabis in Indiana continues to struggle for a foothold. This is in part due to the conservative political climate of the state, as well as the ongoing federal prohibition of the drug. However, advocates for legalization remain optimistic and continue to push for change.
In the State of Indiana, neither medical nor recreational use of cannabis is legal. Possession of any amount of marijuana can result in fines and even jail time. However, this may change in the future. In January 2023, bills that would decriminalize cannabis Possession and legalize medical marijuana are set to be introduced in the state legislature.
Indiana Democratic lawmakers came up with a crafty way to force a House vote on marijuana legalization on Thursday after Republican leadership refused to hear the bill. They added the language of the bill as an amendment to another unrelated bill, which was then narrowly passed. However, the bill is not expected to make it through the Republican-controlled Senate.
Indiana House Democratic Leader Phil GiaQuinta of Fort Wayne expressed disappointment after an effort to legalize marijuana in the state was shot down. "We're not allowing people to make their own choices," he said. "We're not allowing people to use a product that they see as a medicine or as a way to relax."
UPDATE: State Rep. Wendy McNamara (R-Evansville), the House courts and criminal code committee chairwoman, said the Indiana House will not consider a medical marijuana bill this year. She cited concerns about the federal government's ongoing prohibition of the drug as well as potential negative effects on public health and safety.
A hemp product discussion was first on the list Thursday as the House debated Senate Bill 20, which deals with alcohol and hemp matters. The bill would legalize the sale and product of hemp-derived product such as CBD oil. However, it does not address the legalization of marijuana.
legal marijuana in Indiana could give a boost to the state's manufacturing and agriculture sectors. By legal and regulating the drug, the state could create new jobs and generate revenue. This is particularly important in light of the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Curious about the status of cannabis? The U.S. Map of status of where marijuana legalization stands, state by state in the United States, provides a helpful overview of where the drug is legal and where it is not. As of now, 36 states have legalize medical marijuana, while 15 states (plus D.C.) have legalize recreational use. However, Indiana remains one of the few states that has not yet taken steps to legalize cannabis in any form.
In the end, the push to legalize cannabis in Indiana continues to face significant obstacles. However, advocates remain committed to their cause and will continue to fight for change. As the debate around marijuana legalization continues to evolve at the national level, it will be interesting to see how this issue plays out in Indiana and other states.
