State-by-state guide to U.S. marijuana legislation
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More and more states are legalizing marijuana. Recreational marijuana is legal in four states, 23 states and the District of Columbia have laws that legalize marijuana in some form, and other states have taken action to decriminalize possession. Here’s your up-to-date guide on marijuana legislation in the United States.
Photo: Leaves of a mature marijuana plant are seen in a display at The International Cannabis and Hemp Expo April 18, 2010 at the Cow Palace in Daly City, California.
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Some Marijuana Lingo
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC): THC is the main chemical compound that causes a psychological reaction from marijuana. In low doses, the chemical can have medical benefits such as the alleviation of pain and nausea. In higher doses, THC can cause what is known as a “high.’’
Cannabidiol (CBD): CBD is the second most common chemical in marijuana. CBD is believed to have the same medical benefits of THC (anti-nausea, anti-anxiety, anti-pain) without causing the euphoric “high.’’
Debilitating medical condition: The definition of debilitating medical condition varies slightly from state to state but generally includes: cancer, glaucoma, HIV, hepatitis C, Crohn’s disease, immune deficiency and epileptic conditions.
Usable vs. unusable marijuana: Usable marijuana generally refers to “burnable’’ dried marijuana. Unusable includes seeds, seedlings, and stalks. When referring to plants, legislation often distinguishes between “mature’’ and “immature’’ plants. Mature plants are those plants that are ready for harvest, while immature plants are still growing.
Euphoric vs. non-euphoric marijuana: Euphoric marijuana has strong enough amounts of THC, CBD, and other cannabinoids to cause a “high’’ while non-euphoric marijuana does not cause the same psychological reaction.
Photo: Marcelo Vazquez, a marijuana grower, checks the leaves of his marijuana plants for fungus.
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Alabama
What’s legal? Medical marijuana (Non-psychoactive forms with less than 3 percent THC.)
When was it legalized? March 2014
Who’s it legal for? Patients with “debilitating epileptic conditions’’
The Legislation:
Carly’s LawSomething else you should know: The bill also established a research and development program at the University of Alabama at Birmingham to study the potential medical effects of Cannabidiol (CBD).
Last Update: March 5, 2015Photo: A voter slides her ballot into the machine after voting Tuesday, June 3, 2014, at Tuscaloosa Academy in Tuscaloosa, Ala.
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Alaska
What’s legal? Medical and recreational marijuana (up to 1 ounce)
When was it legalized?
Medical: November 1998
Recreational: Voted in November 2014, took effect February 24, 2015.
Who’s it legal for? Anyone over 21 years old
The Legislation:
Medical: Senate Bill 94
Recreational:
Ballot Measure 2.Something else you should know: Alaska has an interesting history with marijuana.Alaska was the first state to decriminalize marijuana in 1975 and one of the first states to legalize medical cannabis in 1998. Then in 2006, Alaska recriminalized marijuana claiming it had been proven to be more intoxicating than previously thought. Most recently, Alaskans voted in favor of legalizing marijuana (52 percent) in the November 2014 election, making them one of only four states with such progressive legislation. But it is still illegal to sell marijuana in the state.
Last Update: March 5, 2015Photo: A view of the House floor on Friday, April 25, 2014, in Juneau, Alaska.
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Arizona
What’s legal? Medical marijuana (2.5 ounces)
When was it legalized? November 2010
Who’s it legal for? Qualifying patients are defined as anyone who has a “debilitating medical condition.’’ Approved conditions cited in the bill include cancer, glaucoma, HIV, Crohn’s disease, and chronic pain.
The Legislation:
Arizona Medical Marijuana ActSomething else you should know: Even if you have a medical marijuana card, you can’t smoke weed anywhere in Arizona. Marijuana cannot be possessed on the grounds of any preschool, primary or secondary school, and cannot be smoked in any public place. Activists hope to get a recreational marijuana bill on the 2016 ballot. The measure proposes legalizing marijuana for anyone 18 and older, so if it’s accepted Arizona would be the first state to legalize marijuana for people under 21. Two bills were introduced to the state legislature in 2015 by Representative Mark Cardenas (D-19). HB 2006 would decriminalize possession for an ounce or less of marijuana. HB 2007 proposes legalizing the possession, consumption, and purchasing of up to one ounce of marijuana for anyone over the age of 21 and lays out a structure for taxation and regulation of the substance.
Last Update: March 8, 2015Photo: In this Dec. 6, 2012 file photo, Michael Cardenas shows medical marijuana he purchases outside Arizona Organix, the first legal medical marijuana dispensary to open in Glendale, Ariz.
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Arkansas
What’s legal? Not marijuana
When was it legalized? Never
Who’s it legal for? No one
The Legislation: Doesn’t exist
Something else you should know:
The Arkansas Hemp and Cannabis Amendment, a bill that pushed for the legalization of recreational marijuana, was accepted by the state attorney general on June 4, 2014, but it did not appear on the November ballot. The legislation was a huge jump considering medical marijuana is not yet legal. In November 2012, more than 48 percent voted in favor of the Arkansas Medical Marijuana Act, which would have legalized medical cannabis. The Arkansas Medical Marijuana Act also did not make it on to the November, 2014 ballot.
Last Update: March 5, 2015 -
California
What’s legal? Medical marijuana (up to 8 ounces of dried marijuana)
When was it legalized? November 1996
Who’s it legal for? Patients with a “debilitating illness’’ that a physician has deemed “would benefit from medical marijuana.’’
The Legislation:
The Compassionate Use Act of 1996Something else you should know: California was the first state to legalize medical marijuana. The California Control, Regulate and Tax Marijuana Initiative, a push to legalize and tax recreational marijuana, will likely appear on the November 2016 ballot. Activists originally hoped to get the bill on the 2014 ballot, but believe it will be more successful in 2016.
Last Update: March 5, 2015Photo: The California state flag flies above City Hall in Santa Monica, California.
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Colorado
What’s legal? Medical and recreational marijuana (up to 8 ounces of dried marijuana)
When was it legalized?
Medical: November 2000
Recreational: November 2012
Who’s it legal for? Anyone over 21 years old
The Legislation:
Colorado Ballot Initiative 20 for medical marijuana and Amendment 64 for recreational marijuana.Something else you should know: Colorado is one of the first two states to legalize recreational marijuana and is thus being used as a guinea pig for other states considering legalization. Factors legislators are looking at are tax revenue, crime rates, and prosecution rates. Colorado has brought in higher-than-expected marijuana tax revenue: $17.9 million the first four months of sale (January to April 2014). Crime rates declined in Colorado in the first quarter of sales. It’s hard to say if marijuana legalization led to the decline, but at least we know it didn’t increase crime rates.
Last Update: March 5, 2015Photo: With the Colorado state capitol building visible in the background, partygoers dance and smoke pot on the first of two days at the annual 4/20 marijuana festival in Denver, Saturday April 19, 2014.
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Connecticut
What’s legal? Medical marijuana (one month supply)
When was it legalized? May 2012
Who’s it legal for? Persons with a “debilitating medical condition’’
The Legislation: Bill No. 5389 “An Act Concerning the Palliative Use of Marijuana’’
Something else you should know: Two bills have been introduced in Connecticut. HB 6703 proposes legalizing possession, sale, growth, and transportation of set amounts, which are not listed in the bill yet, for people over the age of 21. The other bill, HB 6473, proposes decriminalizing marijuana possession and use.
Last Update: March 5, 2015Photo: A gate to the state Senate Chamber swings close at the Capitol on the final day of session, Wednesday, May 7, 2014, in Hartford, Conn.
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District of Columbia
What’s legal? Medical marijuana (up to 2 ounces), Recreational marijuana (up to 2 ounces)
When was it legalized? Medical: May 2010, Recreational: Vote in November 2014, took effect February 26, 2015
Who’s it legal for? Anyone over 21 years old.
The Legislation: “Legalization of Marijuana for Medical Treatment Amendment Act of 2010’’, Recreational: Ballot Initiative #71
Something else you should know: Washington, D.C. is a particularly interesting case study when looking at marijuana legalization. In the November 2014 elections, The District approved by a 69-31 margin the “Legalization of Possession of Minimal Amounts of Marijuana for Personal Use Act of 2014,’’ an Act that would legalize the possession and cultivation, but not retail, of up to 2 ounces of recreational marijuana. However, all laws passed by The District Article are subject to congressional review, an authority granted to Congress by Article 1 Section 8 of the Constitution. The Republican-dominated Congress attempted to block the local approval with provisions included in an approved federal spending bill. In the days leading up to the vote,House Republicans warned D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser she would be breaking federal law and could be subject to arrest, but Bowser did halt implementation of the legalization approved by voters in November.
Marijuana was decriminalized in the spring of 2014.
Last Update: March 5, 2015Photo: This photo taken Feb. 13, 2013 shows different strains of marijuana displayed during the grand opening of the Seattle location of the Northwest Cannabis Market, for sales of medical marijuana products.
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Delaware
What’s legal? Medical marijuana (6 ounces)
When was it legalized? May 2011
Who’s it legal for? Patients ages 18 and older with a “debilitating medical illness’’
The Legislation:
The Delaware Medical Marijuana ActSomething else you should know: The legalization of recreational marijuana is not imminent, but lawmakers are pushing toward looser legislation. A decriminalization bill was introduced in 2015.
Last Update: March 5, 2015Photo: Close up of the flag of the state of Delaware.
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Florida
What’s legal? Medical marijuana (non-euphoric marijuana)
When was it legalized? May 2014, effective January 2015
Who’s it legal for? Patients suffering “from cancer or a physical medical condition that chronically produces symptoms of seizures or severe and persistent muscle spasms.’’
The Legislation:
The Compassionate Medical Cannabis Act of 2014Something else you should know: Florida’s medical marijuana bill is extremely limiting. An initiative to legalize recreational marijuana failed on the November 2014 ballot. A new bill, “The Florida Medical Marijuana Act’’ (SB 528) was introduced for the 2015 legislative session. The bill would provide protections from arrest and prosecution for seriously ill patients using medical marijuana and create a system of registered medical marijuana providers.
Last Update: March 5, 2015Photo: In this May 21, 2014 photo, RayAnn Moseley, 11, does class work in her ESC class at Gulf Breeze Elementary School in Gulf Breeze, Fla. RayAnn’s cerebral palsy affects her ability to speak and, while her parents understand her, most people have a difficult time communicating with her. The Moseleys hope that could change with help from Charlotte’s Web, an oil from a marijuana strain.
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Georgia
What’s legal? Not marijuana.
When was it legalized? Never.
Who’s it legal for? No one.
The Legislation: Doesn’t exist.
Something else you should know: Georgia is close to passing a bill that would legalize medical marijuana for patients suffering from severe seizures. A bill proposing the legalization of medical marijuana, dubbed Haleigh’s Hope Act passed through the House and Senate in March 2014 but failed at the last-minute due to an added provision. The bill has been reintroduced for the 2015 legislative session.
Last Update: March 5, 2015 -
Hawaii
What’s legal? Medical marijuana (4 ounces)
When was it legalized? June 2000
Who’s it legal for? Patients with a “debilitating medical condition’’
The Legislation:
Hawaii Senate Bill 862 (revised in 2013, revisions effective January 2015)Something else you should know:
Over two dozen bills related to marijuana have been introduced for the 2015-2016 legislative section.
Last Update: March 5, 2015Lawmakers from Hawaii’s House of Representatives pose for photos before the start of session on Wed., Jan. 21, in Honolulu. The Hawaii Legislature begins its 2015 session on Wednesday, planning to tackle a tight budget, housing problems and medical marijuana. (AP Photo/Cathy Bussewitz)
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Idaho
What’s legal? Not marijuana.
When was it legalized? Never.
Who’s it legal for? No one.
The Legislation: Doesn’t exist.
Something else you should know: Medical marijuana bills failed in the Idaho legislature in both 2011 and 2012. In 2013 the legislature approved a resolution stating its opposition to legalizing marijuana for any reason. In 2015, a bill was introduced that would decriminalize cannabis extract oil. Activists have been lobbying for the measure.
Last Update: March 5, 2015 -
Illinois
What’s legal? Medical marijuana (2.5 ounces)
When was it legalized? 2013
Who’s it legal for? Patients with a “debilitating medical condition’’
The Legislation:
The Compassionate Use of Medical Cannabis Pilot Program ActSomething else you should know:
Illinois passed broader medical marijuana legislation on July 20, 2014. The new law, which took effect in early 2015, expands the definition of “debilitating medical condition’’ to include children and adults with epilepsy and other seizure disorders. A bill (SB 753) that would legalize possession of marijuana for anyone over 21 years old for up to 30 grams was introduced in February 2015. The bill would also legalize the production and possession of up to five cannabis sativa plants for people over the age of 21. A decriminalization bill (HB 218) was also introduced for the 2015 legislative session.
Last Update: March 5, 2015Photo: The American flag flies outside the Illinois State Capitol Thursday, June 5, 2014, in Springfield, Ill.
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Indiana
What’s legal? Not marijuana.
When was it legalized? Never.
Who’s it legal for? No one.
The Legislation: Doesn’t exist.
Something else you should know: Indiana is currently considering decriminalizing marijuana. Two medical marijuana bills were introduced for consideration in 2015 — HB 1487 and SB 284.
Last Update: March 5, 2015 -
Iowa
What’s legal? Medical marijuana (32 ounces non-psychoactive marijuana)
When was it legalized? May 2014
Who’s it legal for? Patients suffering “from intractable epilepsy if no other satisfactory alternative treatment options exist.’’
The Legislation:
Senate File 2360Something else you should know: Lawmakers in Iowa may push for changes to medical marijuana legislation, and a bill has been approved by the Senate that would reduce penalties for possession of small amounts of marijuana.
Last Update: March 5, 2015Photo: This photo taken April 25, 2014, shows Cassie and Justin Helland watching their son, Caleb, 9, play with one of his favorite toys. Caleb has had epileptic seizures since he was 3 months old. Cassie and Justin hope that the approval by the Iowa Senate of a bill legalizing the use of cannabis for limited medical uses will eventually lead to them being able to use medical marijuana to help treat Caleb’s seizures.
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Kansas
What’s legal? Not marijuana.
When was it legalized? Never.
Who’s it legal for? No one.
The Legislation: Doesn’t exist.
Something else you should know: Kansas is currently considering legislation for medical marijuana. A bill failed in the 2013 legislative session, but two are being considered for the 2015 legislative session. SB 9, which failed in 2013, and HB 2011.
Last Update: March 5, 2015 -
Kentucky
What’s legal? Not marijuana.
When was it legalized? Never.
Who’s it legal for? No one.
The Legislation: Doesn’t exist.
Something else you should know: Kentucky’s governor signed Senate Bill 124 into law in April 2014, allowing the Kentucky public universities to administer cannabidiol and approved clinical trials at the institutions. A new bill, HB 3, was introduced in 2015. The bill would legalize medical marijuana for patients certified by a physician.
Last Update: March 5, 2015 -
Louisiana
What’s legal? Medical marijuana.
When was it legalized? 1991
Who’s it legal for? Technically, no one.
The Legislation: Act No. 874
Something else you should know: The Louisiana Legislature legalized marijuana for medical purposes in 1991, but there are no current laws that allow for the drug to be legally dispensed. A proposal that would have legalized medical marijuana was shut down by the Senate Health and Welfare Committee in April 2014. But a new bill, HB 6, was introduced in 2015. It would bridge the gap between the 1991 approval and current law by allowing the distribution and dispensation of medical marijuana.
Last Update: March 5, 2015 -
Maine
What’s legal? Medical marijuana (2.5 ounces and six plants) is legal statewide, and recreational marijuana (2.5 ounces) is legal in Portland.
When was it legalized? Medical marijuana in 1999 (statewide) and recreational marijuana in 2013 (only Portland).
Who’s it legal for? In Portland, recreational marijuana is legal for adults over 21 years old. Everywhere else in the state, only patients with a “debilitating medical condition’’ may use medical marijuana.
The Legislation: Is “The Maine Medical Marijuana Act’’ for statewide medical marijuana and “Question 1’’ for recreational marijuana.
Something else you should know: The Portland vs. Maine legalization battle is pretty complicated. Portland’s bill legalized the possession but not the sale or purchase of marijuana, which is pretty fuzzy. Basically the bill decriminalized the possession of marijuana, but lawmakers made a statement against the marijuana industry while they were at it. A bill that would have legalized recreational marijuana across the state failed on the ballots in November 2013. The bill will be reconsidered in 2015.
Last Update: March 5, 2015Photo: Rockland Maine Ma. 06/28/2012 Paul T. McCarrier is a legislative liaison for Medical Marijuana Caregivers of Maine.
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Maryland
What’s legal? Medical marijuana (30-day supply)
When was it legalized? June 2014
Who’s it legal for? Qualifying patients ages 18 and older. “Qualifying patients’’ are defined as those patients who have an illness in which no other effective treatment exists, and for whom a doctor deems that the medical benefits of marijuana outweigh the health risks.
The Legislation:
House Bill 881Something else you should know: Maryland decriminalized marijuana this year, too. Senate Bill 364 was signed by Maryland Governor Martin O’Malley in April and goes into effect in October. The bill changes possession of less than 10 grams of marijuana from a criminal offense to a civil offense. In 2015, two bills (SB 531 and HB 911) are being considered that would legalize, regulate, and tax marijuana for persons over the age of 21.
Last Update: March 5, 2015Photo: Maryland Gov. Martin O’Malley, center, signs a bill alongside Senate President Thomas V. Mike Miller, left, and House Speaker Michael Busch, during a ceremony in Annapolis, Md., Tuesday, April 8, 2014.
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Massachusetts
What’s legal? Medical marijuana (60-day supply)
When was it legalized?
November 2012Who’s it legal for? Patients with a “debilitating medical condition’’
The Legislation:
Ballot Question 3Something else you should know: At least two medical marijuana companies have filed lawsuits against the state’s application process for licensing after their applications were denied in early 2014. In May, a state judge denied their efforts to halt the licensing process until their cases were heard. Under the medical marijuana law, 35 dispensaries will be approved for operation throughout the state. Recreational marijuana could be legalized soon. Legislators are drafting a 2016 ballot question that proposes the legalization and taxation of marijuana.
Last Update: March 5, 2015Photo: 05/15/14: Spencer, MA: A still image from a video shot by police during the raid on Andrzej Connor’s marijuana plants.
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Michigan
What’s legal? Medical marijuana (2.5 ounces, 12 marijuana plants)
When was it legalized? November 2008
Who’s it legal for? Patients with a “debilitating medical condition’’
The Legislation:
The Michigan Medical Marijuana ActSomething else you should know: A revised version of the act makes it illegal to transport or possess marijuana in the main cabin of a car. Marijuana must be transported in the trunk. Fourteen cities in Michigan have decriminalized possession and use of marijuana.
Last Update: March 5, 2015Photo: 29-year-old Sarah Christoff spins tunes in front of a mockup of a marijuana growth house at the Chicago Cannabis Conference June 7, 2014, being held on the iconic Navy Pier. The gathering–organized by Michigan-based nonprofit My Compassion–is the largest public meeting yet of cannabis professionals and medical marijuana supporters say organizers.
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Minnesota
What’s legal? Medical marijuana (30-day supply in liquid, oil, pill or vaporized form. No smoking)
When was it legalized? May 2014 (The state will approve two manufacturers and eight dispensaries throughout the state to start selling in July 2015.)
Who’s it legal for? Patients with a “debilitating medical condition’’
The Legislation:
SF 2470Something else you should know:
Minnesota’s medical cannabis law is one of the strictest in the country. It’s the only state with broad marijuana legislation that prohibits smoking it. There are several legislative efforts underway in 2015 to add to the existing medical marijuana legislation.
Last Update: March 5, 2015Photo: In this May 9, 2014 file photo, medical marijuana advocates watch as the Minnesota House of Representatives vote on a bill that would legalize marijuana use for medical reasons at the Capitol in St. Paul, Minn.
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Mississippi
What’s legal? Medical marijuana (only in oil form)
When was it legalized? April 2014
Who’s it legal for? Patients with a “debilitating medical condition’’
The Legislation:
“Harper Grace’s Law’’Something else you should know: Mississippi’s medical marijuana law is extremely strict. The bill only allows for marijuana in oil form and only oil that “contains more than 15 percent CBD and no more than 0.5 percent THC.’’ The Mississippi Alliance for Cannabis is gathering signatures to qualify Ballot Initiative 48 for the 2016 general election, handing the decision to voters on the legalization of marijuana for adults. To qualify, 100,000 signatures must be gathered by October 2, 2015.
Last Update: March 5, 2015Photo: Gov. Phil Bryant walks past a mockup of a new state seal Wednesday, April 2, 2014, outside his office at the Capitol in Jackson, Miss.
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Missouri
What’s legal? Hemp extract (non-psychoactive marijuana), no more than .3 percent THC and at least 5 percent CBD.
When was it legalized? 2014
Who’s it legal for?Only for individuals suffering from “intractable epilepsy.’’
The Legislation:
HB 2238Something else you should know: In 2014, Missouri approved legislation lowering penalties for possession of less than 10 grams for first-time offenders beginning in 2017.
Last Update: March 5, 2015Photo: Republican Missouri Sen. Eric Schmitt, his wife Jaime Schmitt and their son Stephen Schmitt, who has epilepsy, watch state House debate in Jefferson City, Mo., on Thursday, May 1, 2014. State lawmakers sent a bill to the governor handled by Schmitt that would allow use of a cannabis extract by people whose epilepsy isn’t relieved by other treatments.
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Montana
What’s legal? Medical marijuana (1 ounce dried marijuana, four plants)
When was it legalized? November 2004, revised in 2011
Who’s it legal for? Patients with a “debilitating medical condition’’
The Legislation:
The Montana Marijuana ActSomething else you should know: Marijuana advocates hope to get a recreational marijuana proposal on the 2016 ballot. Although they hoped to get on the ballot this year, advocates decided prospects looked brighter in 2016. On the other side of the spectrum, anti-pot group SafeMontana is rallying to get a measure on the 2014 ballot that would repeal the current medical marijuana act and make all marijuana illegal in the state.
Photo: In this Sunday, Jan. 24, 2010 photo, Todd Wagner, left, a medical marijuana caregiver sits with other vendors during the Medical Marijuana Clinic in Billings, Mont.
Last Update: March 5, 2015 -
Nebraska
What’s legal? Not marijuana.
When was it legalized? Never.
Who’s it legal for? No one.
The Legislation: Doesn’t exist.
Something else you should know:
A medical marijuana bill dubbed “Will’s Law’’ was shut down by legislators in February 2014. A bill titled the “Cannabis Compassion and Care Act,’’ or LB 643, was introduced in 2015. The bill would legalize for those with a “debilitating medical condition’’ to cultivate, use, and possess a limited amount of marijuana if recommended by their doctor.
Last Update: March 5, 2015 -
Nevada
What’s legal? Medical marijuana (1 ounce dried marijuana, three plants)
When was it legalized? November 2007
Who’s it legal for? Patients with a “chronic or debilitating medical condition’’
The Legislation:
Ballot Question 9Something else you should know:
The Nevada Marijuana Legalization Initiative, which would allow people over 21 to possess and purchase up to one ounce and up to 12 plants, has qualified for the November 2016 ballot. The measure will go before the legislature in 2015, but if they do not take action, or if it is rejected, voters will get final say in 2016.
Last Update: March 5, 2015Photo: This Jan. 12, 2011 file photo shows Anthony Hampton demonstrating in favor of medical marijuana in Las Vegas.
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New Hampshire
What’s legal? Medical marijuana (2 ounces usable cannabis, any amount unusable)
When was it legalized? July 2013
Who’s it legal for? Patients with a “severely debilitating or terminal medical condition’’
The Legislation: “Use of Cannabis for Therapeutic Purposes,’’ House Bill 573
Something else you should know: The New Hampshire Senate shut down a bill that would have decriminalized possession of up to one ounce of marijuana. A new decriminalization bill, HB 618, is being considered in 2015.
Last Update: March 5, 2015Photo: New Hampshire lawmakers listen to debate on Wednesday, March 12, 2014 in Concord, N.H.
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New Jersey
What’s legal? Medical marijuana (30-day supply)
When was it legalized? January 2010
Who’s it legal for? Patients with a “debilitating medical condition’’
The Legislation: The “New Jersey Compassionate Use Medical Marijuana Act’’
Something else you should know:
A recreational marijuana bill that proposes legalizing 1 ounce of usable marijuana and six plants was submitted by Sen. Nicholas Scutari (D) in March 2014. The bill proposed that tax revenue from marijuana would go to public transportation, drug treatment programs, and women’s health. Republican Governor Chris Christie has said will never support the legalization of recreational marijuana.
Last Update: March 5, 2015Photo: Ed Forchion, a pro-marijuana activist known as NJ Weedman, carries a large cross with huge likeness of a marijuana leaf as he walks in front of the New Jersey Statehouse in Trenton, N.J., Sunday, April 20, 2014. Dozens of activists and community members gathered in front of Statehouse to show their support for legalizing marijuana.
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New Mexico
What’s legal? Medical marijuana (6 ounces, four plants)
When was it legalized? January 2010
Who’s it legal for? Patients with a “a chronic or debilitating disease or condition’’
The Legislation:
Compassionate Use Medical Marijuana ActSomething else you should know: A proposal to let residents vote on the legalization of recreational marijuana was shut down in the New Mexico Senate in February 2014. Legislators are adamant about getting the proposal on the ballots in 2016. A recreational marijuana bill (HB 160) was introduced in 2015, but it has already been tabled.
Last Update: March 5, 2015Photo caption: R. Greenleaf Organics, Inc. Executive Director Willie Ford (CQ), inspects marijuana buds in the drying room at the organization’s famr at an undisclosed location in New Mexico, Tuesday Jan. 22, 2013.
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New York
What’s legal? Medical marijuana (30-day supply)
When was it legalized?
July 7, 2014Who’s it legal for? Patients with one of these 10 serious medical conditions: cancer, HIV, AIDS, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, spinal damage, intractable spasticity, epilepsy, inflammatory bowel disease, neuropathies, or Huntington’s disease. More conditions may be added by the commissioner.
The Legislation:
Program Bill #57Something else you should know:
It is believedthat eligible New Yorkers won’t be able to buy medical marijuana before 2015. During this period the state will approve distribution centers and finalize the logistics of the law. The law does not approve marijuana in leaf form (you can’t smoke it) but approves all other forms of the drug (edible, oil, vapor). Cuomo reiterated that he will not approve a recreational marijuana bill when he signed medical cannabis law in July 2014.
Last Update: March 5, 2015Photo: In this May 20, 2014 file photo, supports cheer after the Senate Health Committee advanced a bill that would legalize medical marijuana in New York state. With attention turning to fall elections, New York lawmakers may end their session without voting on a minimum wage hike, medical marijuana, public campaign financing or other high-profile issues.
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North Carolina
What’s legal? Not marijuana.
When was it legalized? Never.
Who’s it legal for? No one.
The Legislation: Doesn’t exist.
Something else you should know: The state is currently considering a bill that would establish a legislative research commission to study medical cannabis, medical cannabis law, and potential tax revenue that could result from it. A medical marijuana bill was introduced in 2015.
Last Update: March 5, 2015 -
North Dakota
What’s legal? Not marijuana.
When was it legalized? Never.
Who’s it legal for? No one.
The Legislation: Doesn’t exist.
Something else you should know: A medical marijuana bill failed in the House in 2015.
Last Update: March 5, 2015 -
Ohio
What’s legal? Not marijuana.
When was it legalized? Never.
Who’s it legal for? No one.
The Legislation: Is at a stand-still.
Something else you should know:
Ohio’s medical marijuana bill is at a stand-still. The bill was filed in 2013, but a hearing date has not been decided.
Last Update: March 5, 2015 -
Oklahoma
What’s legal? Not marijuana.
When was it legalized? Never.
Who’s it legal for? No one.
The Legislation: Is in the works.
Something else you should know: Marijuana advocates filed a medical marijuana ballot initiative in late May 2014, but not enough signatures were gathered to qualify the measure for the November 2014 ballot. Medical marijuana bills have failed at the committee level multiple times in Oklahoma over the past six years.
Last Update: March 5, 2015 -
Oregon
What’s legal? Medical marijuana. Recreational marijuana is pending and will begin July 1, 2015.
When was it legalized?
Medical: November 1998 (amended in 1999, 2013, 2014)
Recreational: November 2014 (It’s still pending approval.)
Who’s it legal for? Anyone over 21 years old
The Legislation:
Medical:
Senate Bill 281Recreational: Oregon Legalized Marijuana Initiative, Measure 91
Something else you should know: Oregon voters cast ballots in favor of legalizing recreational marijuana in November 2014. The measure, which will not become law until July 2015, legalizes the cultivation, retail, and possession of up to 8 ounces of marijuana in private and 1 ounce in public for persons over 21 years of age in Oregon. The measure also grants retail and regulation authority to the Oregon Liquor Commission and allows the commission until January 1, 2016 to finalize plans, so public sales likely won’t be available until then. Marijuana legislation failed in Oregon in 2012.
Last Update: March 5, 2015Photo: A bottle of a marijuana-based product is seen at the “Oregon’s Finest” medical marijuana dispensary in Portland, Oregon April 8, 2014.
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Pennsylvania
What’s legal? Not marijuana.
When was it legalized? Never.
Who’s it legal for? No one.
The Legislation: Is in the works.
Something else you should know:
The Raymond Shafer Compassionate Use of Medical Cannabis Act was introduced in 2014, but it did not move forward. A new bill, SB 3, which was modeled on it, was introduced in 2015.
Last Update: March 5, 2015Photo: Mike Storm of East Stroudsburg, left talks with Senator Mike Folmer following the Pennsylvania Senate public hearing to consider Bill 1182, the Compassionate Use of Medical Cannabis Act, Tuesday, June 10, 2014 in the North Office Building in Harrisburg, Pa.
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Rhode Island
What’s legal? Medical marijuana (2.5 ounces usable marijuana, 12 plants)
When was it legalized? 2006, amended 2009
Who’s it legal for? Patients with a “debilitating medical condition’’
The Legislation:
The Edward O. Hawkins and Thomas C. Slater Medical Marijuana ActSomething else you should know: Rhode Island legislators filed a recreational marijuana bill that proposed legalizing the possession of 2.5 ounces of marijuana or two plants in February. The House Judiciary Committee decided to hold the marijuana bill until 2015, when further study of recreational cannabis is available.
Last Update: March 5, 2015Photo caption: The Rhode Island State House.
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South Carolina
What’s legal? Not marijuana.
When was it legalized? Never.
Who’s it legal for? No one.
The Legislation: While South Carolina doesn’t have a fully developed medical marijuana program, the state did pass the Medical Cannabis Therapeutic Treatment Research Act, an act that approves a clinical trial program through the Medical University of South Carolina in April.
Something else you should know: A broader medical marijuana bill, the South Carolina Medical Marijuana Act, which proposed the legalization of 2 ounces of usable marijuana and three mature plants for medical purposes, was filed earlier this year, but did not make it to a state Senate hearing. A decriminalization bill, H 3117, was also introduced in 2014 and is still being reviewed in 2015.
Last Update: March 5, 2015 -
South Dakota
What’s legal? Not marijuana.
When was it legalized? Never.
Who’s it legal for? No one.
The Legislation: Doesn’t exist.
Something else you should know: No marijuana legislation has been proposed in 2014.
Last Update: March 5, 2015 -
Tennessee
What’s legal? Not marijuana.
When was it legalized? Never.
Who’s it legal for? No one.
The Legislation: Doesn’t exist.
Something else you should know: A medical marijuana legalization bill failed in the House in March. A bill establishing a four-year study on the medical effects of medical marijuana, however, was passed by the Senate and signed by the governor in May 2014.
Last Update: March 5, 2015 -
Texas
What’s legal? Not marijuana.
When was it legalized? Never.
Who’s it legal for? No one.
The Legislation: Doesn’t exist.
Something else you should know: Texas does not have any marijuana legislation in the works. Marijuana legislators and advocates are in the early stages of drafting a marijuana legalization bill. A bill proposing the legalization of marijuana by removing all references to the substance in state regulations was introduced in March 2015.
Last Update: March 5, 2015 -
Utah
What’s legal? Medical marijuana
When was it legalized?
March 2014, and it takes effect July 2014.Who’s it legal for?Patients with intractable epilepsy
The Legislation:
Charlee’s LawSomething else you should know: Some legislators and marijuana advocates don’t include Utah in lists of states that have legalized medical marijuana because the law is so restricting. The law doesn’t allow marijuana production in Utah but allows qualified patients to obtain marijuana extract from other states. Another medical marijuana bill, SB 259, was introduced in 2015.
Last Update: March 5, 2015Photo: Utah’s Republican Gov. Gary Herbert, center, signs H.B.105 during a bill signing ceremony for about 50 parents and children at the state Capitol Tuesday, March 25, 2014, in Salt Lake City. Parents of Utah children with severe epilepsy are cheering a new state law that allows them to obtain a marijuana extract they say helps with seizures, but procuring it involves navigating a thorny set of state and federal laws. The new law doesn’t allow medical marijuana production in Utah but allows families meeting certain restrictions to obtain the extract from other states.
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Virginia
What’s legal? Not marijuana.
When was it legalized? Never.
Who’s it legal for? No one.
The Legislation: Doesn’t exist.
Something else you should know: Virginia polls show overwhelming support for medical marijuana and split support for recreational marijuana legislation. A bill allowing patients with intractable epilepsy to avoid conviction, but not arrest, for possessing some medical cannabis oils was approved in 2015.
Last Update: March 5, 2015 -
Vermont
What’s legal? Medical marijuana (2 ounces usable marijuana, two mature plants)
When was it legalized? July 2004
Who’s it legal for? Patients with a “debilitating medical condition’’
The Legislation:
An Act Relating to Marijuana Use by Persons with Severe IllnessSomething else you should know: Vermont is currently studying the fiscal and social effects of legalizing recreational marijuana. The study was announced in March 2014, and the results were presented to legislators in 2015. A bill legalizing possession, use and sale of recreational marijuana for those over 21 was introduced 2015. With legalization of recreational marijuana on the horizon, some well known businesses are considering how they might take advantage of the change in law.
Last Update: March 5, 2015Photo caption: The Vermont state flag.
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Washington
What’s legal? Medical and recreational marijuana (1 ounce)
When was it legalized? Medical marijuana was legalized in 1998. Recreational marijuana was legalized in 2012
Who’s it legal for? Anyone over 21 years old
The Legislation:
Initiative 692 for medical marijuana and Initiative 502 for recreational marijuanaSomething else you should know: Washington is one of the first two states to legalize recreational marijuana.
Last Update: March 5, 2015Photo: Nick Cookro (R), 34, of Seattle inhales marijuana smoke from a plastic bag as Lina Joseph of Puyallup, Washington looks on, at the Seattle Hempfest 4/20 event in Seattle, Washington April 20, 2014.
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West Virginia
What’s legal? Not marijuana.
When was it legalized? Never.
Who’s it legal for? No one.
The Legislation: Doesn’t exist.
Something else you should know:
A medical marijuana bill was introduced in West Virginia in January 2014, but it never made it to a state Senate hearing. A new medical marijuana bill was introduced in 2015.
Last Update: March 5, 2015 -
Wisconsin
What’s legal? Not marijuana.
When was it legalized? Never.
Who’s it legal for? No one.
The Legislation: Doesn’t exist.
Something else you should know: A bill that aimed to legalize
the possession of 3 ounces of medical marijuana for people suffering from debilitating medical conditions was introduced in March 2014, but it did not make it to a legislative hearing. A bill was enacted in 2014 that allows the use of cannabidiol, without a psychoactive effect, for those with a seizure disorder.
Last Update: March 5, 2015 -
Wyoming
What’s legal? Not marijuana.
When was it legalized? Never.
Who’s it legal for? No one.
The Legislation: Doesn’t exist.
Something else you should know: A marijuana decriminalization bill failed in 2014, but another was introduced in 2015.
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