As more states legalize marijuana and opinions become increasingly relaxed, it is prudent to understand how attitudes about cannabis coincide and contradict between the different generations. This comes at a time when despite said cannabis legalization, there is still some cultural stigma associated with the use of the drug. This article delves into marijuana consumption within the millennial generation, seeing as this particular population is primarily credited with pioneering widespread recreational use.
Possession up to an ounce of marjiuana for people 21 years or older is now allowed as well as a licensing system for retail sales of cannabis. These efforts will start with already operating medical marijuana dispensaries in the state and sales could start as soon as March under the measure.
Along with Initiative 190, Constitutional Initiative 118 amends the state constitution to set the legal age of cannabis consumption at 21.
Ahead of the election, poll numbers revealed that 54% of likely voters supported legalization of cannabis on the ballot and found that Montana voters support marijuana legalization, 49 percent to 39 percent. Attempts to quash the proposal from the opponents of the legalization was rejected by the state Supreme Court.
Adults 21 years of age and older will be able to possess and distribute up to 1 oz of marijuana, as well as being allowed to cultivate up to three cannabis plants. This legalization will become law on July 1, 2021, and license regulations will be developed by the Department of Revenue by April 1, 2022.
New Jersey’s legalization of marijuana is now putting pressure on neighboring states like New York and Pennsylvania to push for legalization as well.
This new amendment is expected to generate $126 million a year for New Jersey, a much needed revenue after the pandemic has impacted the state’s financial status.