The immediate aftermath of the 2020 Election has left us with uncertainty, division, and high emotions. But it has also left us with a clear path forward for the cannabis industry.
Voters in 4 states passed measures to legalize recreational marijuana while voters in 1 state pushed through legalization of medical marijuana. These join Washington DC and 11 other states in legalizing the adult use of cannabis.
Voters in Arizona, Montana, New Jersey and South Dakota passed state ballot measures to legalize recreational cannabis use. Voters in Mississippi passed Initiative 65, clearing the way to legalize medical marijuana. And in South Dakota, in addition to voting “yes” to recreational marijuana use, voters also passed laws ensuring access to medical marijuana.
These approved ballot measures represent major victories in the movement to undo the harms of cannabis criminalization, according to The Guardian.
In Oregon, where marijuana is already fully legal, voters passed a measure to decriminalize the personal possession of small amounts of illegal drugs. They will reclassify this as a civil violation with a fine and a required health assessment while expanding access to treatment and recovery. (Selling and manufacturing drugs in Oregon continues to be illegal.)
All this news fares well for the cannabis industry across the nation and continues to put pressure on states where the legalization of marijuana has not yet been put to vote. Legalization and decriminalization present opportunities for new business and jobs as well as a focus on mental health, all of which are much needed throughout the U.S. at this time.
MarketWatch reports that “After Election Day 2020, one-third of Americans live in states that have decriminalized cannabis.”
If you’re expanding your business or starting up in one of these states, send us an email today to ask about our stock cartons, packaging, and equipment options for cannabis products. Our cartons are certified child resistant and printed in-house. And our experts can help guide you with the right packaging and equipment for your operation.
