United States: Regulatory Changes To Cannabis Industry In The United States

In recent weeks it seems every U.S. map has been shaded in red and blue. But when it comes to legalization of cannabis, the color should be green. On Election Day, five states, some "red," others "blue" and even one that went from "red" to "blue" gave the green light to legalized cannabis measures. Here's the run-down:

Arizona

Voters approved adult-use recreational cannabis, which will be in addition to the existing medical program. Under the approved Proposition, adults 21 and older can purchase and possess up to one ounce of cannabis and grow up to six plants at home for personal use. The Arizona Department of Health will regulate the program which by law must be in place by June 1, 2021. New marijuana establishment licenses will be available for application in January through March 2021.

Mississippi

One of the redder states of the country went green with voter approval of a medical cannabis program. Under the approved measure, residents must have one of 22 "debilitating medical conditions to be qualify under the program. The Mississippi Department of Health will regulate the program, including the issuance of patient cards and an unlimited number of medical marijuana treatment centers.

Montana

Like in Arizona, voters approved adult-use recreational cannabis, which will augment the existing legalized medical program. Under the measure, adult-use will be regulated by the Montana Department of Revenue. The Department will make cultivation and retail licenses available by October 1, 2021. Under the recently approved law, only businesses licensed under the existing medical use program can apply for adult-use licenses for the first 12 months after they become available. The legislature is expected to addresses additional regulations for the program.

New Jersey

Voters approved an adult-use recreational cannabis program to go along with the existing medical program. Under the law, a Cannabis Regulatory Commission will regulate the program. Many details about how the program is to be run must be worked out by the legislature, including the licensing process. It is anticipated that sales of adultuse cannabis are at least a year away, but New Jersey will become a significant adult-use state with significant business opportunities.

South Dakota

South Dakota voters made history when they approved a constitutional amendment legalizing both a medical marijuana and adult-use recreational cannabis program at the same time. Like Arizona, the law allows possession of up to one ounce cannabis per adult for adult use. The state legislature must pass laws for a medical cannabis program and hemp sales no later than April 1, 2022.