In four U.S. states, voters made decisions on marijuana legalization, both recreational and medical, precisely on November 5, 2024. Here’s a list of what was approved and where cannabis is going to be legalized shortly.
Where did voters approve marijuana legalization?
In this election cycle, among all the states, Nebraska was able to pass marijuana-related measures, legalizing medical and recreational use in the state. As a result, the Associated Press indicated that Nebraskans supported Initiative 437 concerning the medical use of cannabis by 70.7% and Initiative 438, which incorporates the Nebraska Medical Cannabis Commission, by 66.9% votes.
How did each state vote on marijuana measures?
- Nebraska: The state passed both medical marijuana (Initiative 437) and regulatory measures for it (Initiative 438).
- North Dakota: North Dakota proposed recreational marijuana legalization but voters rejected it, with 52.5% against and 47.5% in favor.
- South Dakota: South Dakota’s efforts to promote the use of recreational marijuana also did not work. Approximately 56.3% of those who participated in the voting process disapproved of the measure while only 43.7% were in favor of it.
- Florida: In Florida, 55.9% of voters made a move to legalize marijuana for recreation purposes, but the amendment was unsuccessful, since Florida mandates a 60% threshold to amend a statute.
Why did only Nebraska pass marijuana measures?
Nebraska’s initiatives focused specifically on medical marijuana, and support was bolstered by significant advocacy, including from Nebraskans for Medical Marijuana. In contrast, recreational marijuana measures in North and South Dakota faced more opposition. Florida’s ballot also required a supermajority of 60% to pass, so the close vote fell short.
What happens next in Nebraska?
In the state of Nebraska, it has now become necessary for state authorities to establish the Nebraska Medical Cannabis Commission that would regulate medical marijuana activities and practices. Nonetheless, legal threats will be expected and more so on claims regarding the validity of signatures that could result in postponement of the implementation.
Why do voters in some states reject marijuana measures?
Many factors affect the passage of marijuana measures, including local demographics, cultural perspectives, and specific legal requirements like Florida’s 60% threshold. In a state like South Dakota, medical usage of the drug still remains prohibited. So, Certain areas exhibit marked resistance to the marijuana movement.
Will there be more marijuana initiatives in future elections?
As the prospects of legalizing marijuana gain traction in more parts of the country, it can be predicted that other states will also allow for similar measures on their ballots. Each and every poll plays a role in altering the behavior of the people, thus states such as Florida are likely to re-introduce such measures in the years to come.
