Increasing Momentum in US and Japan for Marijuana Legalization
In the evolving landscape of cannabis legislation, several states are navigating the complexities of legalizing marijuana for recreational or medical use. In Hawaii, a bill is under consideration that aims to legalize and regulate marijuana sales, a move that proponents argue would ensure product purity and safety, expand options for medical marijuana patients, and generate revenue for the state. This initiative mirrors broader trends across the United States, where a growing number of states are embracing legal cannabis markets.
In contrast, Florida faces a more uncertain path as recent survey data indicates only a slim majority of voters currently support a proposal for legalizing recreational marijuana, with a significant portion still undecided. The governor has voiced concerns about public safety and health, while major cannabis retailers emphasize the potential economic benefits, such as increased tax revenue and job creation. The debate in Florida exemplifies the broader national discourse, where public opinion and political will are pivotal in shaping state cannabis policies.
Meanwhile, New Hampshire's House has passed a bill proposing a state-run model for cannabis retail, which would involve licensing a limited number of establishments and establishing a regulatory commission. Governor Chris Sununu, however, has expressed reservations about the proposed system's alignment with his vision of tightly regulated outlets. The bill is currently being considered by the Senate Judiciary Committee, with discussions focusing on finding a compromise that navigates the conflict between state legislation and federal law, under which cannabis remains illegal.
At the federal level, marijuana is classified as a Schedule I drug, despite a Data for Progress survey showing significant voter support across party lines for federal legalization. The movement towards legalization has been gaining momentum, with Ohio set to become the 24th state to allow legal recreational marijuana use and Kentucky preparing to legalize medical use by 2025. The changing tide is also reflected in international developments, as Japan's Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare plans to update its cannabis regulations for the first time in 75 years, potentially allowing for medical products with trace levels of THC.
