The US cannabis industry experienced a rollercoaster year in 2023, with mixed results from ballot measures and legislative efforts. Despite federal reform remaining stalled, many Americans live in states where marijuana is legal for recreational use.
Currently, 24 states and Washington, D.C. have legalized adult-use cannabis, while 39 states have medical programs in place. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) recently held its first meeting to discuss reclassifying marijuana as a less dangerous substance. Although progress is slow, many are optimistic about the industry’s prospects for 2025.
President-elect Donald Trump’s return to office has sparked hope among cannabis executives and advocates. Legendary litigator David Boies believes that Trump’s inclination towards state-level reforms bodes well for weed. “We are much more likely to see positive change,” said Boies.
While some states, like New York and California, have seen significant growth in the industry, others face challenges. Hawaii is considered a prime candidate for legalization this year, with Democrats controlling all branches of government. Pennsylvania and Wisconsin also have strong cannabis reform prospects, with support from lawmakers and Governor Shapiro’s push for recreational legalization.
However, the outcome of these efforts remains uncertain, as Congress controls both chambers and has historically been resistant to cannabis legalization. The DEA rescheduling process is expected to take years, with no definitive timeline. Industry experts caution against making predictions, but say 2025 will be a year marked by significant changes in individual states.
As the cannabis industry continues to evolve, one thing is clear: the future of marijuana reform remains uncertain, but full of opportunities for growth and progress.
Source: https://www.forbes.com/sites/willyakowicz/2025/01/03/where-is-cannabis-legal-a-guide-to-all-50-states