It was only a decade ago when recreational marijuana was illegal nationwide. But after cannabis advocates won the approval of legalizing recreational cannabis in Colorado and Washington, the movement has grown into a sprawling, multi-billion dollar industry backed by corporate interests and focused on increasing sales rather than ensuring public safety. Today, recreational cannabis is now legal in 19 states, two territories, and Washington, D.C., while medical marijuana is legal in 37 states, three territories, and the District. In the upcoming midterm elections, voters in five, mostly conservative states—including Arkansas, and North and South Dakota—will face ballot initiatives to legalize recreational pot, and if approved, would make the drug legal in nearly half of all states. This has taken place amid rapidly shifting attitudes about marijuana: two-thirds of Americans say they want recreational pot legalized in their state as well as on the federal level, where it remains an illegal Schedule 1 drug, similar to heroin. On a local level, however, Americans are wary about allowing pot stores in their neighborhoods. Even in pro-pot states such as Oregon and Colorado, a majority of municipalities have opted out of allowing dispensaries due to concerns about its impact on vulnerable young people and driving while under the influence (a recent Gallup poll found that young Americans are smoking cannabis at the highest rate ever). As voters go to the polls, they should carefully consider the implications of legalizing marijuana, as well as the details in initiatives when it comes to commercialization and safeguarding public health.
Street Address
City, State, Zip
Phone Number
Rosenthal Center for AddictIon Studies