Overall, our country is nearly split in half in terms of legalized weed. As of March 2018, almost 50% of our country has legalized the drug, while only several states in this group have allowed medical and recreational pot use. With the upcoming midterm elections in November, marijuana aficionados and members of the cannabis community are tensing with anticipation. Since the legalization of the drug in additional Northeastern and Western states in 2018, Midwestern voters may have the chance to vote on fully legalizing cannabis. Let’s take a closer look at the circumstances surrounding this event.
Voting on Marijuana in the Midwest
In June 2018, Oklahoma turned the tide when the state government allowed the use of medical marijuana, increasing the number of states that accept this method to 31%. At the same time, Utah and Missouri are considering options for medical cannabis. Utah, in particular, has received staunch support from the Mormon Church, which has promised to help Legislature legalize the drug (even if negative votes outweigh positive ones).
However, a critical turning point is about to take place in the Midwest. Michigan and North Dakota are considering if recreational marijuana should be legalized. If the vote passes, these two will become the 10th and 11th states to allow recreational pot use (since the first state legalized it in 2012). In other words, this is a critical point in politics.
A Matter of Public Opinion
A professor from the University of Michigan has stated that the United States is on the verge of a breakthrough with legalized marijuana, but votes ultimately rely on the polarized views of the public. While a large number of people believe the drug is harmless and beneficial, others see the possible dangers and risks that have accompanied cannabis in the past (e.g. criminal behavior).
Nevertheless, several major states in our country have fully legalized the drug. California is at the forefront of the biggest marijuana market in the world. Meanwhile, Oregon, Alaska, Nevada, Colorado, and Washington have allowed medical and recreational use on the Western seaboard. Further east, New England states Vermont, Maine, Massachusetts, and Washington D.C. (our nation’s capital) have also supported both uses for the drug.
Always remember that marijuana does not have control over your life. You do. Are you suffering from a substance abuse disorder or addiction? Do you have a friend or family member suffering from one or more of these debilitating illnesses? If you do, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our counselors and healthcare experts are ready to walk you through every step of the detox and withdrawal process and rehabilitation and guide you towards living a happier, healthier, and freer lifestyle. While the road to recovery might not be an easy road to travel, we promise to help you every step of the way. Take the first step to stay fit, healthy, and safe.
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