Federal law still makes recreational marijuana use illegal. Recently, the House of Representatives passed a bill to federally remove marijuana from criminalization.
Nearly all those who support legalization in their state also support it in their federal jurisdiction. Legal recreational marijuana is supported by the same people regardless of whether it’s at the federal or state level. This suggests that the issue of jurisdiction may not be important to them.
Legalizing recreational marijuana use in more states has led to more legal marijuana businesses opening. Most Americans would not mind these types of businesses opening in their neighborhoods: many either favor it or don’t care much.
Only 3 out of 10 people would be against the opening a licensed recreational marijuana shop in their locality. Opposition is mostly driven by those who oppose legalizing marijuana.
37% of Americans use marijuana. They are more supportive of legalization. There is also a greater likelihood of recreational marijuana shops opening in their area. Support is even higher for those who regularly use marijuana.
A small majority of those who don’t use marijuana support legalization. However, they are less supportive than those who do. The enthusiasm of people who don’t use marijuana is lower than that of those who do. However, most would support the opening of licensed dispensaries within their community.
Widespread support for marijuana legalization under federal laws
Eighteen States and the District of Columbia now allow recreational marijuana use.
Even those who reside in states that do not allow recreational marijuana use, the majority of them want it legalized. They also support federal legalization.
Although marijuana has been legalized in some states, federal law still makes it illegal to sell marijuana. This makes it hard for licensed marijuana sellers to access the banking system.
There is broad support for legalizing marijuana at the federal stage across all genders, education levels, and racial groups. Younger Americans, who are more likely than older Americans to use marijuana, remain more supportive of legalizing it.
Views are shaped by ideological and political leanings. While most Democrats, liberals and independents support legalization under federal law as a matter of principle, Republicans and conservatives differ on the issue. The age divides Republicans from conservatives. Those who are younger support legalization while those who are older oppose it, especially Republicans and conservatives over 65.
