Cannabis is a product that is used to relieve pain, anxiety, and depression. People consumed them for recreational purposes. But in many states of the world cannabis is banned for several reasons. Such as: sometimes accidents occur when people drive under the influence, cannabis also affects the mind and body, and it impacts your appetite, circulation, and respiration processes. Thus we shall discuss when cannabis becomes legal in the United States. So let’s begin.
When Does Cannabis Become Legal In The USA?
Over the past few decades, the legalization of cannabis in the US has been an explosive and evolving matter. With increasing public demand and support for its legalization, many states in the USA have taken steps to allow the consumption of cannabis for medical or recreational purposes. However, the legal status of cannabis still varies widely across the country. Some states have allowed its use but some have maintained strict prohibitions. So here are some points that indicate the legalization of cannabis.
Federal Law vs. State Law
If we talk about federal law so under the consideration of that the manufacture, distribution, and use of cannabis are illegal. Cannabis remains illegal at the federal level, but it has been legalized in numerous states to differing degrees and creates a complicated legal environment.
What Is The Age Limit For Cannabis In The USA?
In states where cannabis is legal for recreational use so there is a limit of at least 21 years of age for its consumption. Before this age, an individual cannot buy, sell, or consume cannabis products. For medical use of cannabis, the age requirement is typically 18, but children may be allowed with parental approval and a recommendation from a licensed healthcare professional.
States with Legal Recreational Cannabis:
According to updates of 2024, there are 23 states and Washington, D.C. that have legalized recreational cannabis. Here is an overview of some of the states where cannabis is permitted for recreational use, along with their biggest cities:
California:
Adults in California who are at least 21 years old are permitted to buy and consume cannabis. There are a lot of dispensaries in big cities like San Francisco, Los Angeles, and San Diego to buy cannabis.
Colorado:
One of the first states to legalize marijuana for recreational use in 2012 was Colorado. It permits adults to carry, consume, and cultivate cannabis. One important center for cannabis culture is Denver.
Washington:
Cannabis use is legal in Washington for people 21 years of age and older. Seattle boasts a thriving cannabis industry.
Oregon:
Adults in Oregon are legally permitted to buy and utilize cannabis. One well-known city with a lot of dispensaries is Portland.
Nevada:
One of the most well-known Nevadan communities where cannabis use is permitted for adults 21 years of age and older is Las Vegas.
Massachusetts:
Massachusetts legalized the use of recreational cannabis in 2016. Boston has several cannabis dispensaries.
Other states that have permitted recreational cannabis include Alaska, Arizona, Illinois, Maine, Michigan, Montana, New Jersey, New York, Vermont, and
more. Additionally, Washington, D.C. has legalized recreational cannabis but with certain restrictions.
States That Allow Medical Use Of Cannabis:
As we know cannabis is also used for medical purposes. Therefore, there are many states that have legalized medical cannabis. Patients in these states may receive cannabis on a doctor’s recommendation if they meet certain medical requirements. States like the following have extensive medicinal cannabis projects:
Florida
Pennsylvania
Ohio
Texas
New York
In these states, age limits and other restrictions may differ. Some states allow children to use medical cannabis under specific conditions as prescribed by the doctor.
Conclusion
So, when was cannabis legalized in the USA? So, in 2012, two Washington and Colorado were the first states that permitted cannabis in the United States with certain restrictions. The legal status of cannabis in the US varies with different countries.
Some states have legalized it for recreational use while some states have strong bans. Anyone interested in consuming cannabis lawfully has to be aware of the state-specific laws, which include possession restrictions, permissible uses, and age requirements.