This multi-part series will explore the states most likely to legalize medical or recreational cannabis in 2020.
According to the National Institute of Cannabis Investors, 33 states have legalized cannabis for medical purposes and 11 states have legalized the plant’s recreational use. It’s only a matter of time before more states follow suit and legalize cannabis to treat medical patients in their state, attract out-of-state tourists, and stimulate their economy. Two states that are likely to legalize medical marijuana in 2020 are Nebraska and Mississippi.
Although the outbreak of the coronavirus has interrupted the economies of many of the states in which cannabis has been legalized, it appears that cannabis sales are surging. So far, it is yet to be seen how the virus will impact the legalization efforts of states across the country. While the State of Illinois delayed cannabis application submissions for 2 weeks and instituted new guidelines, like submissions through certified mail rather than in-person, there have yet to be changes made to other state application processes. Many states or cities, especially in California, already require or allow online submissions, which may expedite any precautionary delays. Though it is possible that more delays could be announced in the coming weeks, many are hopeful that cannabis legislation will be able to push through as planned.
In general, states often legalize medical use cannabis prior to approving cannabis for recreational purposes. The overall trend shows that about two-thirds of Americans are interested in full cannabis legalization (medical and recreational), while about one-third are pro-medical cannabis legalization. It’s possible that the upcoming presidential election in November 2020 may be a decisive factor in determining the future of the cannabis industry in the United States. Regardless of which presidential cannabis is eventually elected into office, its likely that changes are coming to federal cannabis policy.
Currently in Nebraska, possessing one ounce of marijuana results in a $300 fine and jail time that increases with each subsequent conviction. So far, Nebraska lawmakers have rejected medical marijuana bills. Initiatives, such as the Nebraska Medical Marijuana Initiative and the Cannabis Legalization Initiative, have actively pushed for cannabis legislation to become an option on the ballot instead. The state needs 122,000 signatures by July 2020 in order to reach the requirement, but as of yet has only collected about 15,000. According to a survey from The Lincoln Journal Star, about 77% of people in Nebraska would vote in favor of medical marijuana, which indicates that inclusion on the ballot may be successful. Success on the ballot could lead to new laws allowing the purchase of cannabis at the age of 18, and for those who are under 18, purchase would be allowed if prescribed by a doctor and with parental permission.
Mississippi is another state that is currently planning to legalize medical cannabis in 2020. Currently, all uses of cannabis are banned and CBD oil is the only form of cannabis allowed. An organization called Mississippians for Compassionate Care was able to secure over 214,000 signatures in support of the legalization of medical marijuana. The Mississippi Medical Marijuana Amendment of 2020 will provide the only cannabis-related ballot in 2020 and will allow citizens to vote in favor or against medical legalization. In addition, almost 67 % of people in Mississippi are in favor of medical marijuana legalization already, which indicates a strong possibility that this amendment will be implemented. If this amendment is successful, it will allow patients with medical conditions, such as cancer and PTSD, to possess up to 2.5 ounces of cannabis. Ultimately, legalization in Mississippi may spread to nearby Southern states, which have taken a more conservative approach to cannabis policies.
Despite efforts to legalize medical cannabis, its illegal status under federal law presents challenges in nationwide legalization – although this may change after 2020 elections. Currently, cannabis policies are determined by the individual laws of each state, and even if cannabis’ federal status changes, this may continue to be the case. Some states have more rigid laws than others, while other states remain open-minded about the potential benefits of cannabis. Nebraska and Mississippi are currently in the process of legalizing cannabis for medical purposes to provide relief for patients within the states. While some states fear medical cannabis laws could be abused or increase crime in their communities, recent studies have touted the potential medicinal benefits of the plant and have indicated that cannabis businesses do not increase crime, and in some neighborhoods, crime has actually decreased. States across the US are increasingly implementing their own cannabis legislation, enticed by the financial and economical benefits seen in states with long-term legalization like Colorado. While federal cannabis policy may still be over a year away, it’s likely that 2020 will be a big year for state-based cannabis legalization.