These states could legalize marijuana before the end of the year

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Already half of the US has legalized cannabis in some way, and more states are coming soon

This year is important for new cannabis legislation to hit some states, especially during a year in which the country will decide on its new leaders. In November, voters will need to vote on the new politicians who will run the country, but also the states, particularly important for the cannabis market. On the federal level, advocates are more resigned that there won’t be any changes to marijuana’s scheduling anytime soon, so state legalization still has a major role. A least three states are preparing for voters to make the final decision regarding certain cannabis reforms, and at least one more is looking into legalizing adult-use sales.

New Jersey is trying to decide on the adult legalization of cannabis, and, by the looks of it, it has a good chance to be approved by voters. Based on data from a survey conducted in April by Monmouth University, 61% of New Jersey residents are in favor of the legalization of recreational sales on a state level. If this measure is approved, the state could be looking at nearly $1 billion in sales annually.

Mississippi, one of the most conservative states, is considering the idea to legalize medical marijuana within its borders. State residents seem to be more inclined to support medical marijuana legalization by a huge margin. Voters will decide first if they want to have legal medical marijuana and then they will decide on the 65A initiative that wants to restrict smoking only to terminal patients.

South Dakota is about to make history this year. It is the first state to have residents voting not only for legal medical marijuana, but for adult-use, as well, right on the same ballot. One proposal wants to establish a marijuana program for individuals with a debilitating medical condition and a separate constitutional amendment is also seeking on legalizing the recreational use as well.

The only other state with a solid chance to have legal recreational sales is Arizona, which is deciding on the Smart and Safe Arizona Act. This measure would legalize adult-use cannabis and add a 16% tax on sales.