New Cannabis Laws for 2023: Understanding the Future of Cannabis Legislation in the US

Cannabis is recognized as one of the world’s most cultivated, used, and trafficked drugs. As the legalization of marijuana is taking place in several states of the US, it is significantly drawing the attention of manufacturers, researchers, and investors towards itself.  

However, despite the legalization, jumping into the business can get you behind bars if you are unaware of the cannabis regulation.  

Let’s first check which states have legalized marijuana and which have approved its usage to some extent.  

The legality of Cannabis in US jurisdiction

Overall, 35 states have legalized the usage of cannabis, out of which 16 legally allow 21+ individuals to use it for recreational purposes. Other 19 states allow only partial utilization of the herb. The following table will give you a better understanding of the new cannabis regulation in every part of the USA.  

Cannabis Law amendments for 2023 (State-wise)  

Regulators, voters, and lawmakers around the USA passed rules, laws, and orders that will be implemented in the current year. Here is a state-wise rundown of new cannabis law that would be effective in 2023.  

California

The World’s most significant market of legal weed, California, has come up with several 2023 cannabis laws; let’s have a look:  

Taxes on cannabis might rise for consumers. Also, from January 1, 2023, large and medium growing licenses would be considered legal, raising the cannabis supply and bringing the prices down.  

Patients will enjoy new rights regarding the usage of medical weed along with other medications. The responsible use of cannabis is now also allowed for parents.  

Other amendments include: 

• Bars are now allowed to host cannabis events.  
• It’s now easier for cannabis businesses to get insurance under AB2595.  
• And thanks to AB 1885, vets can now recommend cannabinoids for pets suffering from anxiety.  

New York

New York is ready to set up the country’s second-largest legalized cannabis market, as dispensary sales are now allowed in the state. It is expected that numerous stores will come online in 2023.  

Oregon

Oregon is among the first two states in the USA that legalized the usage of weed. The state’s weed industry will further be streamlined with the new cannabis law:  

• Retailers can now offer discounts to customers. However, schemes like “buy one get one” are not allowed.  
• The weed delivery in Oregon can now cross the county lines. 
• Walk-up options have also been legalized at the Oregon dispensaries.  
• It is now legal to set up a drive-thru dispensary in the state.  

Colorado

On January 4, 2023, psychedelic mushroom decriminalization took effect. Sales and productions are still criminal offenses, though. Other than that, the medicinal usage of marijuana got a little easier under state law.  

Connecticut  

Cultivating weed for personal usage is still banned in the state. However, on January 10, 2023, the adult sale of weed was legalized. Even though the use of weed is legalized in Connecticut, it is still prohibited in public spaces, workplaces and near entrances. Additionally, those living somewhere with more than 50,000 people may be able to find dedicated sites for legal consumption. Lastly, landlords can decide if it is allowed on their premises.

Missouri

The second former confederate state in the USA, Missouri, legalized weed medical usage in the year 2022. However, it was not until November 2022 that the possession rights got effective. The retail stores of cannabis will be functional from this year in the state.  

Maryland

The possession of not more than 1.5 ounces of marijuana is now legal in Maryland. However, you must be at least 21 or older to be eligible for the possession. Legal actions could be taken against anyone under the legal age, even for carrying 1 gram of weed. 

Illinois

The curbside pickup of Marijuana at dispensaries was allowed in the state until January 1, 2023.   Residents could originally buy marijuana for adult use via regulated dispensaries. Cannabis sales are taxed differently depending on how much THC it contains: cannabis with more than 35% THC is subject to a 25% tax, whereas cannabis with less THC is subject to a 10% tax.

Kentucky

Medical marijuana patients who were charged for possessing no more than 8 ounces of out-of-state- weed can get their charges dropped “entirely, partially, or on several conditions.” The Kentucky governor passed an executive order in favor of patients. The order has been effective since January 1, 2023.  

Oklahoma

The adult-dosage of weed is still illegal in the state. However, a special election is scheduled in the month of March regarding its legalization.   

Vermont

In 2023, there are possibilities that the small northeast state of Vermont may decriminalize the adult usage of hash, buds, and flowers. Under the current law, Cannabis flowers containing more than 30% THC and extract containing more than 60% THC are considered to be illegal. Only two states of the USA- Connecticut, and Vermont- have such sections on weed. 

FAQ

Wrapping it up!

These were the latest changes in new cannabis law in different US counties. 

Although weed has been Cannabis Legislation in the US has legalized weed in numerous states, a citizen must be aware of the restrictions regarding the legalization. Half or no knowledge could be dangerous and get you in trouble with the law. The amount of possession allowed and the instructions by the federal bodies regarding consumption should all be considered to avoid arrest or penalties.