After years of expanding legal access to marijuana, several U.S. states are now reevaluating their cannabis policies. Legislators in states like Idaho, Maryland, Michigan, and New Jersey are proposing measures to restrict marijuana use, citing health concerns and financial considerations.Â
Idaho’s Legislative Actions
Idaho, surrounded by states that have legalized marijuana, is taking a firm stance against legalization. State Representative Bruce Skaug supported two bills: one imposing a mandatory minimum $300 fine for marijuana possession and another aiming to remove the possibility of voter-led legalization initiatives. Skaug argues that other states have not seen the promised benefits of legalization, stating, “Looking around at other states that have legalized marijuana, it’s not improved their states as a place to raise a family, to do business.â€Â
Tax Increases and THC Caps
To address budget shortfalls, officials in Maryland, Michigan, and New Jersey have proposed raising marijuana taxes. Additionally, health concerns have led lawmakers in Colorado and Montana to consider capping the levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the primary psychoactive component in cannabis, in products sold at dispensaries.Â
Challenges to Medical Marijuana Programs
Some states are also targeting existing medical marijuana programs. In South Dakota, a bill that would have significantly altered the voter-approved medical marijuana program failed in committee. Similarly, Nebraska lawmakers are debating the scope of medical marijuana legalization, with concerns that broad legalization could effectively lead to recreational use.Â
Public Support Remains Steady
Despite these legislative efforts, public support for marijuana legalization remains strong. A Pew Research Center poll found that 57% of U.S. adults believe marijuana should be legal for both medical and recreational use. Advocates argue that recent legislative actions are more reflective of political agendas than shifts in public opinion.Â
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