The marijuana industry is seeing incredible growth in the US as of 2022. In 2022, the total size of the medical and recreational marijuana growing industries is expected to grow by 16.6% year over year. At a valuation of $19.4 billion, the industry is now one of the largest and is still set to grow significantly. Since 2017–2022, the figures indicate a growth of 35.4% annualized! If you’re someone who takes an active interest in this industry, this blog is for you.
Today, we are going to look at the situation of marijuana laws in the top 5 states of the US:
- New York;
- Colombia;
- California;
- Florida;
- Texas
Let’s cut to the chase and check them out!
New York
Even though NYC previously had marijuana laws and corporations practiced a marijuana-free culture, times have changed. Legal adult use and possession are allowed for individuals 21 years of age or older. Any person meeting the age requirement can possess up to three ounces and up to 24 grams of cannabis for personal use. Adults are allowed to smoke and vape cannabis wherever smoking tobacco is permitted as per the smoke-free air laws, keeping in mind a few exceptions. Thus, if you want to grow your own plants,you can order seeds from Farmers Lab Seeds, which is considered to be one of the best Canada online seed banks!
Colombia
The state that houses Capitol Hill is a place that has a lot of mixed laws for the possession and use of cannabis. On the face of it, recreational cannabis use is illegal and highly discouraged. However, the law also states that personal consumption and possession of the plant have been decriminalized. People can possess up to 20 grams, grow up to 20 plants, and consume cannabis in public spaces. However, there are harsh penalties and legal constraints on the sale and purchase. Hence, this forms an adverse climate for cannabis businesses but not for users.
California
Cannabis is legal in California. If you are over the age of 18, you can legally purchase and use cannabis only if recommended by a physician for medical use. Recreational use is allowed for people who are 21 years of age or older. The rules for medicinal users and adult users differ. Medicinal users have higher limits on possession and can grow more plants at home if their physician recommends it. They are also allowed to buy more cannabis daily, depending on the physician’s prescription. All in all, this forms a very productive environment for the cannabis business to advocate the plant in a positive light.
Florida
With its beaches and popular tourist destinations, Florida is one of the most popular states. However, this state has taken a stand against the recreational use of cannabis. Possession of up to 20 grams of cannabis, or 3/4 of an ounce, is a misdemeanor offense punishable by law. The punishment can be up to a year in jail and a $1,000 fine. Additionally, the driver’s license of the person in question will also be suspended according to state legislation. Despite several cities and counties enacting reforms that carry milder penalties, suffice it to say that cannabis is not legal in Florida.
Texas
Welcome to the final most popular state on our list. The state of Texas is well known for its unique culture globally. However, the byproduct is that marijuana is illegal in the state. Possession of up to 2 ounces of marijuana is considered a Class B misdemeanor that carries a punishment of 180 days in jail. Additionally, a fine of $2,000 is imposed. But that’s not all. Possession of any amount of 2 to 4 ounces of marijuana is a Class A misdemeanor that results in a fine of up to $4,000 and up to a year in county jail. Furthermore, the recreational use of marijuana is prohibited in Texas.
What Does It Mean for the Industry?
Thus, it is clear that some of the most popular states in the US are not very marijuana-friendly. The marijuana industry debate is at an all-time high now. We are still in the initial stages of understanding whether or not marijuana has positive effects. However, it is safe to say that with time and more research, the bias and stigma will slowly start to fade. With the rest of the world legalizing marijuana, it’s only a matter of time before these states follow suit! We believe that the states that allow it are excellent places to start a cannabis business. You can start growing, dropshipping, etc. quite easily in these marijuana-friendly states.
