As the 2024 elections approach, several states are poised to make significant decisions regarding cannabis legalization. From recreational use to medical marijuana, these measures could reshape the landscape of cannabis policy in the United States. Here’s a comprehensive look at the states with upcoming cannabis-related measures and why it’s crucial to get out and vote.
Florida: Smart & Safe Florida Initiative
Description: This initiative seeks to legalize recreational cannabis for adults 21 and older, allowing the purchase and possession of up to three ounces of cannabis and up to five grams of concentrate. Despite significant financial backing, the measure is under review by the Florida Supreme Court for clarity and conciseness.
South Dakota: South Dakotans For Better Marijuana Laws Initiative
Description: South Dakota is revisiting cannabis legalization with two proposed measures. One aims to legalize the possession, use, and distribution of cannabis for adults 21 and over, while the other seeks to establish a regulatory framework for a legal cannabis market.
Hawaii: SB 669 and New AG Roadmap
Description: Hawaii’s legislative efforts focus on legalizing adult-use cannabis, including a proposed 10% cannabis sales tax and a 4.25% excise tax. The legislation emphasizes integrating legacy operators into the legal market.
Nebraska: Nebraskans For Medical Marijuana Initiatives
Description: Nebraska has two measures on the ballot. One provides protections for medical cannabis patients and caregivers, while the other aims to create a regulated medical cannabis market. Advocates need to collect nearly 125,000 signatures by July to qualify for the ballot.
Georgia: HB 388, HR 1168, HR 1254
Description: These measures aimed to legalize and regulate cannabis for adult use and decriminalize possession of less than an ounce. However, the legislative session ended without these bills being referred to a committee.
Indiana: HB 1282, HB 1350, HB 1410, SB 0107, SB 0099
Description: These bills aimed to legalize and regulate cannabis for adults 21 and older, removing penalties for possession of up to two ounces of cannabis. Unfortunately, none of these bills advanced before the legislature adjourned.
New Hampshire: HB 1633
Description: This bill seeks to legalize and regulate cannabis for adults 21 and older. Although it passed both the House and Senate, a compromise bill was tabled in June 2024. Advocates are pushing for renewed consideration in the next legislative session.
Pennsylvania: SB 846, HB 1080, HB 2210, HB 1082
Description: These bills propose the legalization and regulation of cannabis sales for adults 21 and older. They have been referred to various committees but have yet to receive individual hearings.
Idaho: The Idaho Medical Marijuana Act
Description: The political action committee Kind Idaho is gathering signatures to place a medical cannabis legalization measure on the November 2024 ballot. They need to collect at least 62,896 signatures by May 1.
North Dakota: Legalization Initiative
Description: Advocates are working to get an adult-use legalization measure on the 2024 ballot. They need to collect 17,508 valid signatures by May 7 to qualify for the November ballot.
Why Your Vote Matters
Voting in these state elections is crucial for the future of cannabis policy. Your vote can shape laws that impact millions of lives, drive economic growth, and end the criminalization of cannabis users. If you’re eligible to vote, make sure you’re registered. Encourage your friends to register and offer them rides to the polling stations if needed. Voting is a powerful way to advocate for change and ensure your voice is heard.
For more information on how to register to vote or to help others register, visit Vote.org. Your participation is vital to the success of these measures and the continued progress of cannabis legalization.
Get Involved Early
Educating yourself and others about these measures now can make a significant difference when the time to vote comes. Share this guide with friends, family, and anyone interested in the future of cannabis policy. The more informed voters are, the better the chances of passing progressive cannabis laws that benefit everyone.
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