In Which States Is Weed Legal?

A Comprehensive Guide to all U.S. States and Marijuana Laws

Every year a new group of states legalize the use of marijuana consumption. Some open there doors to a medical market for medicinal use, while some convert to a recreational market for personal use consumption. It can get confusing to remember or know what states offer marijuana consumption these days. Would you like to know which states is weed legal? This article breaks down the current marijuana laws across the U.S., from full legalization states to strict prohibition state laws.

Table of Contents

1. Key Takeaways
2. Federal Laws vs. State Laws
3. The Role of Public Opinion in Marijuana Legalization
4. Impact of Marijuana Legalization on State Economies
5. States with Legal Recreational Marijuana Laws
6. States with "Medical Marijuana Legalization" Only by State
7. States with Both Recreational and Medical Marijuana
8. States with Limited Medical CBD Programs
9. States With No Medical Cannabis Programs
10. Conclusion
11. Frequently Asked Question
    
12. Resources

 

Key Takeaways

• Economic benefits from marijuana legalization are substantial, with projected tax revenues, promoting social justice initiatives, and job creation growth economies
• Public opinion strongly influences marijuana legislation, with increasing support driving more states toward legalization
• Recreational marijuana is now legal in 24 states, significantly impacting local economies and regulatory frameworks.
• Fifteen states have legal medical marijuana programs, while some states like Texas and Georgia operate limited medical CBD programs.
  
• 9 states maintain a limited medical program that only allows for the use of CBD/low-THC products for qualifying medical conditions as defined by the state

 

Federal Laws vs. State Laws

The conflict between federal and state laws poses a significant challenge for marijuana regulation. While federally illegal and still classified as a Schedule I drug, many states have legalized it for medical or recreational use. The Supremacy Clause of the U.S. Constitution establishes federal law precedence, creating tension and uncertainty among the people. Although the federal government generally takes a hands-off approach, and allows the state to manage the market with the state boundaries the risk of prosecution remains a concern for cannabis and CBD business owners. 

 

The Role of Public Opinion in Marijuana Legalization

Public opinion significantly shapes marijuana laws and markets. A Pew Research Center survey showed 88% of U.S. adults believe marijuana should be legal for medical or recreational purposes, with strong support among younger adults and significant variation across party lines.

States frequently adjust their regulations to align with evolving societal norms and state law public demand.

Overwhelming numbers of Public Support

• Bipartisan Agreement: While Democrats and younger adults tend to show the strongest support, even among Republicans and older age groups, majorities or strong pluralities now favor legalization, especially for medical use.
• Medical vs. Recreational: Nearly nine in ten Americans (88%) believe marijuana should be legal for either medical or recreational use. About 57% support both, while 32% support medical use only. Just 11% say marijuana should not be legal at all

 

Impact of Marijuana Legalization on State Economies

The economic influence of marijuana legalization on state economies is significant. It is projected that by 2026, the total economic impact of the U.S. cannabis industry may approach $150 billion. In the year 2023, states that have legalized marijuana amassed roughly $4.2 billion in tax revenue from this sector. 

Employment opportunities arise within the industry. An average medical marijuana dispensary provides jobs for approximately 6.2 people. Taking California as an example, the state reported generating sales tax revenue amounting to $1.1 billion from cannabis sales, showcasing the monetary advantages that accrue to states following legalization.

 

Social Justice and Marijuana Legalization

The legalization of marijuana acts as an instrument for social equity, striving to amend the social consequences that cannabis prohibition has had on underprivileged groups throughout history. This process may facilitate the clearance of prior cannabis-related legal records, delivering solace to individuals impacted and enforce efforts to legalize marijuana. Sufficient financial support through taxes helped restore justice initiatives to assist neighborhoods that have been excessively burdened by drug legislation. 

 

States with Legal Recreational Marijuana Laws

Recreational marijuana use is gaining acceptance every year, with 24 states now permitting adults (21+) to use marijuana legally for medical or personal use, this industry is obviously not going anywhere. The increasing number of states activating there medical and recreational markets has impacted cannabis retail sales across the nation, from state to state, including non-active states in the traditional black market. This has influenced local government bodies to partake in this new industry, allowing cannabis  businesses to operate in there communities, and alter the stigma of its use. The cannabis industry is a significant economic driver, supporting hundreds of thousands of jobs and generating substantial tax revenue for these communities.

While cannabis legalization has created opportunities for legal states to generate tax revenue and reduce some illegal markets, the black market in some cases saw a high growth due to regulatory costs, high taxes, and enforcement difficulties. Illegal cannabis operations continue to pose public safety risks and economic challenges, indicating that legalization alone has not eliminated the illicit market in the U.S and will continue to strive.

Legal Recreational cannabis markets has also created new business opportunities for service based companies that do not touch the plant and serve cannabis companies (white glove businesses) to participate in state, national, and global business commerce in the cannabis industry.

 

Don't Miss : Looking for a job in the cannabis industry? Read How To Find Cannabis Employment Opportunities in 2025?

 

Recreational Cannabis States & Law Guidelines

Here's a list of the 2025 Recreational states that allow state residents 21+ and older to purchase cannabis products in the US, this list also includes year established, and Cannabis State Law Guidelines. 

 

1. Alaska (Legalized in 2014)

• Possession: Up to one ounce for adults 21 and older.
• Home Cultivation:  Yes, Six plants per person (max. three mature).
• Retail Sales: Yes, available at licensed dispensaries statewide.

 

2. Arizona (Legalized in 2020)

• Possession: Up to one ounce (max. five grams of concentrates) for adults 21 and older.
• Home Cultivation: Yes, Six plants per person, 12 per household.
• Retail Sales: Yes, available at licensed establishments since January 2021.

 

3. California (Legalized in 2016)

• Possession: Up to one ounce of cannabis or eight grams of concentrate for adults 21 and older.
• Home Cultivation: Yes, up to six plants per residence.
• Retail Sales: Yes, available at licensed dispensaries statewide.

 

4. Colorado (Legalized in 2012)

• Possession: Up to one ounce for adults 21 and older.
• Home Cultivation: Yes, six plants per person (max. three mature).
• Retail Sales: Yes, Available at licensed retailers since 2014.

 

5. Connecticut (Legalized in 2021)

• Possession: Up to 1.5 ounces on person, five ounces at home for adults 21 and older.
• Home Cultivation: Six plants per person (three mature, three immature), 12 per household.
• Retail Sales: Yes, Available at licensed dispensaries in January 2023.

 

6. Delaware (Legalized in 2023)

• Possession: Up to one ounce for adults 21 and older.
• Home Cultivation: Not permitted.
• Retail Sales: No, Regulations are still being established.

 

7. Illinois (Legalized in 2019)

• Possession: 30 grams of flower, five grams of concentrate, 500mg THC-infused products for residents; half for non-residents.
• Home Cultivation: Yes, but only for medical patients (up to five plants).
• Retail Sales: Yes, available at licensed dispensaries since January 1, 2020.

 

8. Maine (Legalized in 2016)

• Possession: Up to 2.5 ounces of flower for adults 21 and older.
• Home Cultivation: Yes, three mature, 12 immature plants, unlimited seedlings per person.
• Retail Sales: Yes, began in October 2020.

 

9. Maryland (Legalized in 2023)

• Possession: Up to 1.5 ounces for adults 21 and older.
• Home Cultivation: Two plants per person, four per household.
• Retail Sales: Regulations being developed. 

 

10. Massachusetts (Legalized in 2016)

• Possession: Up to one ounce in public, 10 ounces at home for adults 21 and older.
• Home Cultivation: Six plants per person, 12 per household.
• Retail Sales: Yes, Available through licensed retailers since November 2018.

 

11. Michigan (Legalized in 2018)

• Possession: Up to 2.5 ounces in public, 10 ounces at home for adults 21 and older.
• Home Cultivation: Yes, Up to 12 plants per household.
• Retail Sales: Yes, Available at licensed retailers since December 2019.

 

12. Minnesota (Legalized in 2023)

• Possession: Up to two ounces in public, two pounds of dry flower for at home use for adults 21 and older.
• Home Cultivation: Yes, Eight plants per residence (max. four mature).
• Retail Sales: No, Regulatory framework still being established.

 

13. Missouri (Legalized in 2022)

• Possession: Up to three ounces for adults 21 and older.
• Home Cultivation: Yes, Allowed with registration (six flowering, six immature, six clones).
• Retail Sales: Yes, Available at licensed retailers since February 2023.

 

14. Montana (Legalized in 2020)

• Possession: Up to one ounce for adults 21 and older.
• Home Cultivation: Yes, Two mature plants, two seedlings per person, four mature plants per household.
• Retail Sales: Yes, Available at licensed retailers since January 2022.

 

15. Nevada (Legalized in 2016)

• Possession: Adults 21 and over may possess up to one ounce of cannabis or 3.5 grams of concentrate.
• Cultivation: Yes, Home cultivation is permitted only if the nearest dispensary is more than 25 miles away, allowing up to six plants per person, with a maximum of 12 plants per household.
• Retail Sales: Licensed dispensaries began recreational sales in July 2017.

 

16. New Jersey (Legalized in 2020)

• Possession: Adults 21 and over may possess up to six ounces of cannabis.
• Cultivation: No, Home cultivation is not permitted.
• Retail Sales: Yes, Recreational sales commenced in April 2022 through licensed retailers.

 

17. New Mexico (Legalized in 2021)

• Possession: Adults 21 and over may possess up to two ounces of cannabis, 16 grams of concentrate, and 800 milligrams of infused edibles.
• Cultivation: Yes, individuals may grow up to six mature and six immature plants, with a household limit of 12 mature plants.
• Retail Sales: Yes, market began in April 2022 through licensed establishments.

 

18. New York (Legalized in 2021)

• Possession: Adults 21 and over may possess up to three ounces of cannabis and 24 grams of concentrate.
• Cultivation:Yes, home cultivation of up to six plants per person (three mature, three immature) is allowed, with a household limit of 12 plants.
• Retail Sales:  Yes, available through licensed retailers since December 2022.

 

19. Ohio (Legalized in 2023)

• Possession: Adults 21 and over may possess up to 2.5 ounces of cannabis and 15 grams of concentrate.
• Cultivation: No, Home cultivation is not permitted.
• Retail Sales: No, the state is in the process of establishing regulations for retail sales.

 

20. Oregon (Legalized in 2014)

• Possession: Adults 21 and over may possess up to one ounce in public and eight ounces at home for personal use.
• Cultivation: Yes, up to four plants per household, two mature plants.
• Retail Sales: Yes, Recreational sales began in October 2015 through licensed retailers.

 

21. Rhode Island (Legalized in 2021)

• Possession: Adults 21 and over may possess up to one ounce in public and up to 10 ounces at home.
• Cultivation: Yes, home cultivation of up to six plants (three mature, three immature) is permitted. 
• Retail Sales: No, the state is still developing regulations for retail sales.

 

22. Vermont (Legalized in 2018)

• Possession: Adults 21 and over may possess up to one ounce of cannabis.
• Cultivation: Yes, up to two mature plants and four immature plants per household.
• Retail Sales: Yes, Began in October 2022 through licensed establishments.

 

23. Virginia (Legalized in 2021)

• Possession: Adults 21 and over may possess up to one ounce of cannabis.
• Cultivation: Yes, up to four plants per household.
• Retail Sales: Yes, the state is in the process of establishing a regulatory framework for Recreational retail sales, but have an established Medical market for medical cannabis card holders.

24. Washington (Legalized in 2012)

• Possession: Adults 21 and over may possess up to one ounce of cannabis, 16 ounces of infused product in solid form, 72 ounces in liquid form, and seven grams of concentrate.
• Cultivation: Yes, Home cultivation for recreational use is not permitted.
• Retail Sales: Yes, Recreational sales began in July 2014 through licensed dispensary retailers.

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States with "Medical Marijuana Legalization" Only by State

For years medical marijuana has been used to manage a wide range of health conditions.

Certain states have concentrated their efforts on medical marijuana programs, implementing legislation programs to authorize its use for patients who meet specific criteria. These laws oversee the distribution and medicinal applications of legalized cannabis. 

Individuals suffering from specific medical ailments are eligible to obtain products containing medical marijuana by obtaining a state-approved cannabis card. These dispensaries provide an assortment of options such as edibles, capsules, and oils. The necessity for a medical cannabis card in medical only states serves for the purpose of limiting the use of marijuana to patients with genuine health conditions while ensuring that its distribution remains within a regulated framework.

Here are the most common and well-supported health conditions treated with medical marijuana, based on clinical evidence and patient reports, include:

• Chronic Pain
• Nausea and Vomiting (Especially from Chemotherapy)
• Appetite Stimulation and Weight Loss
• Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and Spasticity
• Epilepsy and Seizure Disorders
• Other Commonly Treated Conditions
• Anxiety and depression
• Insomnia and sleep disorder
• Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Muscle spasms and movement disorders such Parkinson's disease
• Glaucoma

 

Medical Marijuana Laws by State: Possession, Cultivation, and Retail (Medical-Only States)

Medical marijuana programs have allowed patients with qualifying conditions to obtain cannabis through licensed dispensaries. Patients must have a physician’s recommendation and a state-issued medical marijuana card to purchase cannabis, ensuring regulated access.

Caregivers can assist patients if they have the necessary identification card, ensuring safe and controlled medical marijuana use. These states have embarked on this path, permitting individuals suffering from ailments. Here is a summary I made of the "Medical only" states that have a Medical Marijuana program, key laws for possession, cultivation, and retail access for medical marijuana  as of 2025.

Alabama (Legalized 2021) 

• Retail / Possession Limits: Medical cannabis legalized (2021); forms allowed: tablets, capsules, tinctures, patches, gels, oils. No flower or edibles.
• Cultivation Laws: Home cultivation is not permitted.
• Retail Laws / Access: Dispensing through licensed dispensaries; no home delivery.
  
  

Arkansas (Legalized 2016) 

• Retail / Possession Limits: Up to 2.5 ounces (71 grams) of usable cannabis per 14-day period.
• Cultivation Laws: Home cultivation is not permitted.
• Retail Laws / Access: Dispensing through licensed medical dispensaries.
  
  

Florida (Legalized 2016) 

• Retail / Possession Limits: Up to 2.5 ounces of smokable cannabis every 35 days; other forms (oils, tinctures, etc.) available.
• Cultivation Laws: Home cultivation is not permitted.
• Retail Laws / Access: Dispensing through licensed Medical Marijuana Treatment Centers (MMTCs).
  
  

Hawaii (Legalized 2000) 

• Retail / Possession Limits: Up to 4 ounces (113 grams) of usable cannabis at any given time. 
• Cultivation Laws: Up to 10 plants (mature or immature) per patient or caregiver.
• Retail Laws / Access: Licensed dispensaries available; home cultivation permitted for registered patients.
  
  

Iowa (Legalized 2017)

• Retail / Possession Limits: Up to 4.5 grams of THC in 90 days (exceptions for terminal illness).
• Cultivation Laws: Home cultivation is not permitted.
• Retail Laws / Access: Licensed dispensaries provide only low-THC, high-CBD products.
  
  

Kentucky (Legalized 2023)

• Retail / Possession Limits: Law effective 2025; possession and retail details pending full implementation.
• Cultivation Laws: Home cultivation is not permitted.
• Retail Laws / Access: Retail access through licensed dispensaries (pending program rollout).
  
  

Louisiana (Legalized 2015)

• Retail / Possession Limits: Up to 2.5 ounces (71 grams) of raw flower every 14 days; 30-day supply for other products (tinctures, edibles, etc., max 5mg THC/serving).
• Cultivation Laws: Home cultivation is not permitted.
• Retail Laws / Access: Dispensing through state-licensed marijuana pharmacies; delivery required at least once per month.
  
  

Minnesota (Legalized      )

• Retail / Possession Limits: Up to 2 ounces in public, 2 pounds at home; up to 8 cannabis plants (4 mature) at home.
• Cultivation Laws: Up to 8 plants (max 4 mature) per household, must be in locked, non-public area.
• Retail Laws / Access: Licensed dispensaries; home cultivation permitted for adults 21+ (including medical patients).
  
  

Mississippi (Legalized 2022)

• Retail / Possession Limits: Up to 3.5 grams of flower or 1 gram of concentrate per day from dispensaries.
• Cultivation Laws: Home cultivation is not permitted.
• Retail Laws / Access: customers and patients have access to products through licensed dispensaries only
  
  

Missouri (Legalized         )

• Retail / Possession Limits: Up to 6 ounces per 30-day period for medical patients.
• Cultivation Laws: Home cultivation permitted with a patient cultivation card: up to 6 flowering, 6 non-flowering, 6 clones.
• Retail Laws / Access: Licensed dispensaries; cultivation card required for home grow.
  
  

New Hampshire  (Legalized 2013)

• Retail / Possession Limits: Up to 2 ounces (56 grams) of usable cannabis every 10 days for registered patients/caregivers.
• Cultivation Laws: Home cultivation is not permitted.
• Retail Laws / Access: Dispensing through Alternative Treatment Centers (ATCs); no home delivery.
  
  

North Dakota (Legalized     )

• Retail / Possession Limits: Up to 3 ounces (85 grams) of usable marijuana per 14-day period for patients.
• Cultivation Laws: Home cultivation permitted for patients living 40+ miles from a dispensary: up to 8 plants.
• Retail Laws / Access: Licensed dispensaries; home cultivation allowed under distance restriction.
  
  

Ohio (Legalized     )

• Retail / Possession Limits: Up to 8 ounces (Tier 1) or 5.3 ounces (Tier 2) per 90 days; other forms (oils, tinctures, edibles) have THC limits.
• Cultivation Laws: Home cultivation is not permitted.
• Retail Laws / Access: Licensed dispensaries; strict product and purchase limits.
  
  

Oklahoma (Legalized 2018)

• Retail / Possession Limits: Up to 3 ounces on person, 8 ounces at home, 1 ounce concentrate, 72 ounces edibles; 6 mature, 6 seedling plants.
• Cultivation Laws: Home cultivation permitted: up to 6 mature and 6 seedling plants per patient.
• Retail Laws / Access: Licensed dispensaries; broad product access.
  
  

Pennsylvania (Legalized 2016)

• Retail / Possession Limits: 90-day supply; forms allowed: pills, oils, tinctures, liquids, topical ointments, vaporized herbal cannabis (no smoking).
• Cultivation Laws: Home cultivation is not permitted.
• Retail Laws / Access: Licensed dispensaries; vaporization allowed, but not smoking.

Georgia (Legalized 2015)

• Retail / Possession Limits: Patients can possess up to 20 fluid ounces of low-THC oil (no more than 5% THC).
• Cultivation Laws: 
• Retail Laws / Access: Medical cannabis oil is sold through registered dispensaries under state regulations.
  
  

Indiana (Legalized CBD Oil Only 2018)

• Retail / Possession Limits: Patients can possess up to 8 ounces of CBD oil with no more than 0.3% THC.
• Cultivation Laws: 
• Retail Laws / Access: CBD oil is sold in licensed stores that comply with state regulations.
  

Kansas (Legalized CBD Oil Only 2018)

• Retail / Possession Limits: Patients can possess up to 5 ounces of CBD oil with no more than 5% THC.
• Cultivation Laws: 
• Retail Laws / Access: CBD oil is sold in state-approved outlets that comply with regulations.
  
  

Utah (Legalized 2018)

• Retail / Possession Limits: Patients may possess up to 113 grams (about 4 ounces) of cannabis.
• Cultivation Laws: 
• Retail Laws / Access: Medical marijuana is sold through licensed dispensaries.
  
  

West Virginia (Legalized 2017)

• Retail / Possession Limits: Patients can possess up to 30 ounces of medical cannabis every 30 days. Currently patients can purchase up to a 30-day supply 
• Cultivation Laws: Home Cultivation is illegal and not allowed. The state does not allow home cultivation for personal use 
• Retail Laws / Access: Medical marijuana is sold through licensed dispensaries.

 

Interesting Product Trends: In 2022, oils and tinctures dominated the medical cannabis market, accounting for 53.4% of total revenue, reflecting patient preference for CBD-based products and precise dosing products. Our CBD Jotter is perfect for tracking your CBD doses. 

 

States with Both Recreational and Medical Marijuana

Some states have recognized the importance of keeping their Medical Cannabis Programs and have continued serving to qualified medical patients and have legalized both recreational and legalized medical marijuana, allowing adults over 21 to purchase and possess.These states offer a balanced framework catering to both personal and medical needs. Public consumption remains illegal is some states, balancing personal freedom with public health.

As cannabis legalization continues to evolve across the United States, understanding the specific regulations governing the states with both recreational and medical cannabis use programs in each of those states is crucial. This graph provides an in-depth look at possession laws, personal cultivation laws, year they established laws, and retail regulations. 

 

1. Alaska (Legalized 2014)
   
   
   • Recreational Market Established: 2014 (Sales began 2015)
   • Medical Market Established: 1998
   • Retail Laws (Adult): Customers 21+ can purchase only through State-licensed retail stores and Medical retail dispensaries for patient card holders.
   • Personal Cultivation Laws (Adult): Home Cultivation is legal. State citizens can grow Up to 6 plants (3 mature) per adult. 
   • Possession Laws (Adult): Up to 1 oz (28g) in public; up to 4 oz at home
   
   
2. Arizona (Legalized 2014)
   
   
   • Recreational Market Established: 2020 (Sales began 2021)
   • Medical Market Established: 2010
   • Retail Laws (Adult): Customers 21+ can purchase only through State-licensed retail stores and Medical retail dispensaries for patient card holders. 
   • Personal Cultivation Laws (Adult): Up to 6 plants per adult, 12 per household
   • Possession Laws (Adult): Up to 1 oz (28g); max 5g concentrate
     
     
3. California (Legalized 2016)
   
   
   • Recreational Market Established: 2016 (sales began 2018)
   • Medical Market Established: 1996
   • Retail Laws (Adult): Customers 21+ can purchase only through State-licensed retail stores and Medical retail dispensaries for patient card holders. 
   • Personal Cultivation Laws (Adult): Up to 6 plants per adult, 12 per household
   • Possession Laws (Adult): Up to 1 oz (28.5g) flower; 8g concentrate
     
     
4. Colorado (Legalized 2012)
   
   
   • Recreational Market Established: 2012 (sales began 2014)
   • Medical Market Established: 2000
   • Retail Laws (Adult): Customers 21+ can purchase only through State-licensed retail stores and Medical retail dispensaries for patient card holders. 
   • Personal Cultivation Laws (Adult): Up to 6 plants per adult, 12 per household
   • Possession Laws (Adult): Up to 2 oz (57g) flower; 8g concentrate (as of 2023 law)
     
     
5. Connecticut (Legalized 2021)
   
   
   • Recreational Market Established: 2021 (sales 2022)
   • Medical Market Established: 2012
   • Retail Laws (Adult): Customers 21+ can purchase only through State-licensed retail stores and Medical retail dispensaries for patient card holders. 
   • Personal Cultivation Laws (Adult): Up to 6 plants per person (3 mature, 3 immature),12 max per household. 
   • Possession Laws (Adult): Up to 1.5 oz (42.5g) on person; up to 5 oz at home
     
     
6. Delaware (Legalized 2023)
   
   
   • Recreational Market Established: 2023 (sales began 2025)
   • Medical Market Established: 2011
   • Retail Laws (Adult): Customers 21+ can purchase only through State-licensed retail stores and Medical retail dispensaries for patient card holders. 
   • Personal Cultivation Laws (Adult): No home cultivation for recreational (medical only)
   • Possession Laws (Adult): Up to 1 oz (28g) flower; 12g concentrate; 750mg edibles
     
     
7.  Illinois (Legalized 2020)
   
   
   • Recreational Market Established: 2020 
   • Medical Market Established: 2013
   • Retail Laws (Adult): Customers 21+ can purchase only through State-licensed retail stores and Medical retail dispensaries for patient card holders. 
   • Personal Cultivation Laws (Adult): No home grow for recreational; medical patients: 5 mature plants
   • Possession Laws (Adult): Up to 30g (1 oz) flower; 5g concentrate; 500mg edibles (residents)
     
8. Maine (Legalized 2016)
   
   
   • Recreational Market Established: 2016 (sales began 2020)
   • Medical Market Established: 1999
   • Retail Laws (Adult): Customers 21+ can purchase only through State-licensed retail stores and Medical retail dispensaries for patient card holders. 
   • Personal Cultivation Laws (Adult): Up to 3 flowering plants, 12 immature, unlimited seedlings
   • Possession Laws (Adult): Up to 2.5 oz (71g) flower; 5g concentrate
     
     
9. Maryland (Legalized 2023)
   
   
   • Recreational Market Established: 2023
   • Medical Market Established: 2014
   • Retail Laws (Adult): Customers 21+ can purchase only through State-licensed retail stores and Medical retail dispensaries for patient card holders. 
   • Personal Cultivation Laws (Adult): Up to 2 plants per household
   • Possession Laws (Adult): Up to 1.5 oz (42.5g) flower; 12g concentrate
     
     
10. Massachusetts  (Legalized 2016)
    
    
    • Recreational Market Established: 2016 (Recreational sales began 2018)
    • Medical Market Established: 2012
    • Retail Laws (Adult): Customers 21+ can purchase only through State-licensed retail stores and Medical retail dispensaries for patient card holders. 
    • Personal Cultivation Laws (Adult): Up to 6 plants per adult, 12 per household
    • Possession Laws (Adult): Up to 1 oz (28g) in public; up to 10 oz at home
      
      
11. Michigan (Legalized 2018)
    
    
    • Recreational Market Established: 2018 (sales began 2019)
    • Medical Market Established: 2008
    • Retail Laws (Adult): Customers 21+ can purchase only through State-licensed retail stores and Medical retail dispensaries for patient card holders. 
    • Personal Cultivation Laws (Adult): Up to 12 plants per household
    • Possession Laws (Adult): Up to 2.5 oz (71g) on person; up to 10 oz at home
      
12. Minnesota (Legalized 2023)
    
    
    • Recreational Market Established: 2023 (sales began 2025)
    • Medical Market Established: 2014
    • Retail Laws (Adult): Customers 21+ can purchase only through State-licensed retail stores and Medical retail dispensaries for patient card holders. 
    • Personal Cultivation Laws (Adult): Up to 8 plants (4 mature) per residence
    • Possession Laws (Adult): Up to 2 oz (57g) in public; up to 2 lbs at home
      
      
13. Missouri (Legalized 2022)
    
    
    • Recreational Market Established: 2022 (sales 2023)
    • Medical Market Established: 2018
    • Retail Laws (Adult): Customers 21+ can purchase only through State-licensed retail stores and Medical retail dispensaries for patient card holders. 
    • Personal Cultivation Laws (Adult): Up to 6 flowering, 6 non-flowering, 6 clones per household
    • Possession Laws (Adult): Up to 3 oz (85g) flower
      
      
14. Montana (Legalized 2020)
    
    
    • Recreational Market Established: 2020 (sales began 2022)
    • Medical Market Established: 2004
    • Retail Laws (Adult): Customers 21+ can purchase only through State-licensed retail stores and Medical retail dispensaries for patient card holders. 
    • Personal Cultivation Laws (Adult): Up to 2 mature, 2 seedlings per adult, max 4/household
    • Possession Laws (Adult): Up to 1 oz (28g) flower; 8g concentrate
      
      
15. Nevada (Legalized 2016)
    
    
    • Recreational Market Established: 2016 (sales began 2017)
    • Medical Market Established: 2000
    • Retail Laws (Adult): Customers 21+ can purchase only through State-licensed retail stores and Medical retail dispensaries for patient card holders. 
    • Personal Cultivation Laws (Adult): Up to 6 plants if no store within 25 miles
    • Possession Laws (Adult): Up to 1 oz (28g) flower; 3.5g concentrate
      
      
16. New Jersey (Legalized 2021)
    
    
    • Recreational Market Established: 2021 (sales began 2022)
    • Medical Market Established: 2010
    • Retail Laws (Adult): Customers 21+ can purchase only through State-licensed retail stores and Medical retail dispensaries for patient card holders. 
    • Personal Cultivation Laws (Adult): 
    • Possession Laws (Adult): Up to 1 oz (28g) flower
      
      
17. New Mexico (Legalized 2021)
    
    
    • Recreational Market Established: 2021 (sales began 2022)
    • Medical Market Established: 2007
    • Retail Laws (Adult): Customers 21+ can purchase only through State-licensed retail stores and Medical retail dispensaries for patient card holders. 
    • Personal Cultivation Laws (Adult): Up to 6 mature, 6 immature per person, max 12/household
    • Possession Laws (Adult): Up to 2 oz (57g) flower; 16g extract; 800mg edibles
      
      
18.  New York (Legalized 2021)
    
    
    • Recreational Market Established: 2021 (sales began 2023)
    • Medical Market Established: 2014
    • Retail Laws (Adult): Customers 21+ can purchase only through State-licensed retail stores and Medical retail dispensaries for patient card holders. 
    • Personal Cultivation Laws (Adult): Up to 6 plants per person, 12 per household
    • Possession Laws (Adult): Up to 3 oz (85g) flower; 24g concentrate
      
      
19. Ohio (Legalized 2023)
    
    
    • Recreational Market Established: 2023 (sales began 2024)
    • Medical Market Established: 2016
    • Retail Laws (Adult): Customers 21+ can purchase only through State-licensed retail stores and Medical retail dispensaries for patient card holders. 
    • Personal Cultivation Laws (Adult): Up to 6 plants per adult, 12 per household
    • Possession Laws (Adult): Up to 2.5 oz (71g) flower; 15g concentrate
      
      
20. Oregon (Legalized 2014)
    
    
    • Recreational Market Established: 2014 (sales began 2015)
    • Medical Market Established: 1998
    • Retail Laws (Adult): Customers 21+ can purchase only through State-licensed retail stores and Medical retail dispensaries for patient card holders. 
    • Personal Cultivation Laws (Adult): Up to 4 plants per household
    • Possession Laws (Adult): Up to 2 oz (57g) in public; up to 8 oz at home
      
      
21. Rhode Island (Legalized 2022)
    
    
    • Recreational Market Established: 2022
    • Medical Market Established: 2006
    • Retail Laws (Adult): Customers 21+ can purchase only through State-licensed retail stores and Medical retail dispensaries for patient card holders. 
    • Personal Cultivation Laws (Adult): Up to 6 plants (3 mature, 3 immature) per adult
    • Possession Laws (Adult): Up to 1 oz (28g) flower
      
      
22. Vermont (Legalized 2022)
    
    
    • Recreational Market Established: 2018 (sales began 2022)
    • Medical Market Established: 2004
    • Retail Laws (Adult): Customers 21+ can purchase only through State-licensed retail stores and Medical retail dispensaries for patient card holders. 
    • Personal Cultivation Laws (Adult): Up to 6 plants (3 mature, 3 immature) per adult
    • Possession Laws (Adult): Up to 1 oz (28g) flower
      
      
23. Virginia (Legalized 2021)
    
    
    • Recreational Market Established: 2021 
    • Medical Market Established: 2020
    • Retail Laws (Adult): Customers 21+ can purchase only through State-licensed retail stores and Medical retail dispensaries for patient card holders. 
    • Personal Cultivation Laws (Adult): Up to 4 plants per household
    • Possession Laws (Adult): Up to 1 oz (28g) flower
      
      
24. Washington (Legalized 2012)
    
    
    • Recreational Market Established: 2012 (sales began 2014)
    • Medical Market Established: 1998
    • Retail Laws (Adult): Customers 21+ can purchase only through State-licensed retail stores and Medical retail dispensaries for patient card holders. 
    • Personal Cultivation Laws (Adult): Home cultivation prohibited (medical only)
    • Possession Laws (Adult): Up to 1 oz (28g) flower; 7g concentrate; 16 oz edibles
      
      
25. D.C. (Legalized 2014)
    
    
    • Recreational Market Established: 2014
    • Medical Market Established: 2010
    • Retail Laws (Adult): Retail sales not permitted (gifting only) 21+ can purchase through State-licensed retail stores 
    • Personal Cultivation Laws (Adult): Up to 6 plants (3 mature) per adult, 12 per household
    • Possession Laws (Adult): Up to 2 oz (57g) flower

 

 

States with Limited Medical CBD Programs

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What was the first state to legalize weed?

A: California was the first state to legalize medical marijuana in 1996 with the compassionate use act. Although, Colorado became the first state to legalize recreational marijuana in 2014.

2. How many states are "weed legal" in 2025?

A: Beginning this year in 2025, marijuana for recreational use for adults 21+ has been legalized in the District of Columbia and 24 states.

3. What percentage of Americans support marijuana legalization?

A: Approximately 66% of Americans support the legalization of marijuana.

4. How many states have legalized recreational marijuana as of 2025?

A: As of 2025, twenty-four U.S. states have legalized recreational marijuana. This reflects a growing trend toward acceptance and regulation of cannabis in the United States.

5. How many states have "Only CBD Programs" as of 2025?

A: 9 states have medical programs that only allow for the use of CBD/low-THC products for qualifying medical condition(s) as defined by the state, Georgia, Texas, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Idaho, Iowa, Kansas, Arkansas, and Alabama

 

Resources:

1. https://www.ncsl.org/health/state-medical-cannabis-laws
2. https://zentopia.com/blogs/blog/is-cbd-legal-in-every-state
3. https://floridastatecannabis.org/cbd
4. https://www.pharmacy.umaryland.edu/academics/graduate-studies-in-medical-cannabis/
5. https://www.cdc.gov/cannabis/about/state-medical-cannabis-laws.html
6. https://www.oberk.com/marijuanalawsbystate
7. https://disa.com/marijuana-legality-by-state
8. https://www.fsmb.org/siteassets/advocacy/key-issues/medical-marijuana-requirements-by-state.pdf
9. https://norml.org/laws/medical-laws/
10. https://worldpopulationreview.com/state-rankings/medical-marijuana-states
11. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Medical_cannabis_in_the_United_States
12. https://www.mpp.org/issues/medical-marijuana/overview-of-states-flawed-high-cbd-laws/
13. https://wisevoter.com/state-rankings/cbd-legal-states/
14. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Legality_of_cannabis_by_U.S._jurisdiction
15. https://shadygrove.umd.edu/academics/degree-programs/ms-medical-cannabis-science-and-therapeutics
16. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Medical_cannabis_in_the_United_States
17. https://worldpopulationreview.com/state-rankings/cbd-legal-states
18. https://usafacts.org/articles/how-marijuana-laws-are-different-between-states/
19. https://www.cannabisclinicians.org/medical-cannabis-courses/
20. https://www.khi.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/hatc_mm_02.pdf
21. https://leafwell.com/blog/is-cbd-legal
22. https://www.jefferson.edu/academics/colleges-schools-institutes/health-professions/emerging-health-professions/academic-programs/certificates/cannabis-medicine.html
23. https://discover.sheppardmullin.com/state-cbd-and-cannabis-laws
24. https://www.mpp.org/issues/medical-marijuana/state-by-state-medical-marijuana-laws/medical-marijuana-patient-numbers/
25. https://www.compassionatecertificationcenters.com/news/list-of-qualifying-health-conditions-for-medical-marijuana-in-each-state/
26. https://www.rollingstone.com/feature/cannabis-legalization-states-map-831885/
27. https://www.leafly.com/learn/legalization/medical-states
28. https://www.senate.ga.gov/committees/Documents/State-by-State%20Analysis%20of%20Medical%20Marijuana%20Programs.pdf
29. Photo by Laura Jaramillo Bernal
30. https://cannigma.com/us-states-where-cannabis-is-legal/
31. https://www.cdc.gov/cannabis/about/state-medical-cannabis-laws.html
    
32. https://floridastatecannabis.org/cbd
33. https://www.oberk.com/marijuanalawsbystate
34. https://www.mpp.org/states/georgia/
35. https://www.gmcc.ga.gov/commission/history-purpose
36. https://legislature.idaho.gov/wp -content/uploads/sessioninfo/2025/legislation/H0007.pdf
37. https://www.pharmacy.umaryland.edu/academics/graduate-studies-in-medical-cannabis/
38. https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-are-the-pros-and-cons-of-medical-marijuana-1132484
39. https://www.pharmacy.umaryland.edu/academics/graduate-studies-in-medical-cannabis/