Marijuana: US states that have acted to legalize recreational marijuana
economictimes.indiatimes.commarijuana. Additionally, 38 states and Washington, DC, have sanctioned comprehensive medical programs, with Kentucky signing a law for medical use, effective in 2025. Legal adult recreational use policies are now in place in 24 states and Washington, D.C.
Ohio's new law takes effect 30 days post-election. Take a look at all the states that have legalized it over the years.
Colorado and Washington (2012): These states led the way, permitting an ounce possession and six plants. Retail sales face standard and additional marijuana taxes.
Alaska and Oregon (2014): Alaska and Oregon mirrored possession limits.
Alaska's excise tax falls on cultivators, while Oregon enforces a 17% retail sales tax.
Washington, D.C. (2014): Allows possession of 2 ounces and home cultivation, but no legal recreational sales due to regulatory constraints.
California, Maine, Massachusetts, Nevada (2016): The shared features include an ounce possession limit, home cultivation, and legal retail sales. Tax rates vary.
Vermont (2018): Initially allowed home cultivation and possession, with retail licenses arriving in October 2022.
Limits include an ounce and growing plants per household.
Guam (2019): Allows possession of an ounce and six plants. Cannabis Control Board formulates trading guidelines.
Illinois (2019): Residents over 21 can possess 30 grams. Tax rates vary based on THC content.
New Jersey (2020): Adults over 21 can use cannabis, governed by the medical cannabis commission.
Montana (2020): Legalized possession for adults with two measures passing with 57% and 58% approval.
South Dakota (2020, Struck Down 2021): Constitutional Amendment A passed but nullified by the state Supreme Court.
Arizona (2020): Proposition 207 allows
