Cannabis on the Ballot in 2024

Cannabis on the Ballot: What to Expect in the November 2024 Election

With Election Day just a week away, voters across the United States are preparing to make their voices heard on a variety of issues, including cannabis legislation. While Kamala Harris's Pledge to Federally Legalize Cannabis could reshape the US cannabis industry there are a number of states who are taking matters into their own hands. 

On November 5, 2024, voters in four states—Florida, Nebraska, North Dakota, and South Dakota—will have the opportunity to decide on important cannabis-related measures. Meanwhile, Massachusetts voters will consider a groundbreaking proposal regarding psychedelics. Here's a breakdown of what to expect in each state. This election will help turn more of the US states green, redrwaing the lines where cannabis is legal for recreational use. 

Florida: Amendment 3

In Florida, voters will decide on Amendment 3, which aims to legalize recreational marijuana. Currently, only medical marijuana is legal. If approved, the amendment would allow adults aged 21 and older to use, possess, and purchase marijuana for non-medical purposes.

The amendment also permits Medical Marijuana Treatment Centers and other licensed entities to cultivate, process, manufacture, sell, and distribute marijuana products. Under this measure, adults 21 or older could possess up to three ounces of marijuana and up to five ounces in concentrate form. For further details, check the Florida Division of Elections website.

Nebraska: Initiative Measures 437 and 438

Nebraska is considering two initiatives related to medical marijuana, as both medical and recreational use is currently illegal.

• Initiative Measure 437 seeks to legalize the use and possession of up to five ounces of cannabis for medical purposes, provided there is a written recommendation from a healthcare provider. A "yes" vote would allow medical marijuana use, while a "no" vote would keep the current laws in place.

• Initiative Measure 438 aims to legalize the possession, manufacture, distribution, and dispensing of medical cannabis by registered entities. This measure would also establish the Nebraska Medical Cannabis Commission to regulate the industry. More information can be found on the Nebraska Secretary of State website.

North Dakota: Measure 5

North Dakota voters will consider Measure 5, which proposes the legalization of recreational marijuana. Currently, the state allows medical marijuana use.

If approved, Measure 5 would enable adults aged 21 and up to produce, process, sell, possess, and use cannabis. The measure also calls for the creation of a state entity to regulate recreational cannabis businesses and establish protections for users. A "yes" vote would approve the measure, while a "no" vote would reject it. Learn more on the North Dakota Secretary of State website.

South Dakota: Initiated Measure 29

South Dakota voters will have the chance to vote on Initiated Measure 29, which seeks to legalize recreational marijuana. Medical marijuana is currently legal in the state.

The measure would allow adults 21 and older to possess, grow, ingest, and distribute marijuana, with restrictions on use in certain areas like schools. Under this legislation, adults could possess up to two ounces of marijuana and grow up to six plants with a limit of 12 plants per household. A "yes" vote would approve the measure, while a "no" vote would not. For more details, visit the South Dakota Secretary of State website.

Massachusetts: Question 4

In Massachusetts, where both medical and recreational marijuana are already legal, voters will consider Question 4, which seeks to legalize certain natural psychedelics.

The proposal would allow the possession, growing, and use of specific natural psychedelic substances, including psilocybin and mescaline, under regulated conditions. It would also establish a Natural Psychedelic Substances Commission for oversight. A "yes" vote would approve the legislation, while a "no" vote would reject it. Voters can find additional information on the Massachusetts Secretary of the Commonwealth website.

Conclusion

As Election Day approaches, these ballot measures in Florida, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Massachusetts highlight the ongoing evolution of cannabis and psychedelic legislation in the United States. Voters will play a crucial role in shaping the future of these policies, reflecting shifting attitudes toward cannabis and related substances.
Whether you're a supporter or an opponent, it's essential to stay informed and participate in the democratic process to have your say.