Marijuana and Hemp Issues for Voters in the 2024 Election
As Election Day approaches, I’ve been getting a lot of questions from people about my opinion on Florida's Amendment 3 to legalize cannabis. I personally support legalization as a social benefit because of the harm prohibition has caused to so many people in our society- especially people of color. I guess you can say I’m voting with my conscience.
Outside of Florida, marijuana and hemp legalization are at the forefront of ballot measures across key states. Marijuana as an election issue has been increasingly commonplace for a number of reasons (more on that later). Since there are both federal, state and local policies at play, it can be a little confusing. I put together this little guide that outlines where the presidential candidates stand on cannabis policy, the marijuana ballot measures up for a vote, and the potential effects of these measures on healthcare, insurance, workplace rules, and the criminal justice system. There’s lots to go over, so let's spark it up!
Where the 2024 Presidential Candidates Stand on Marijuana
Kamala Harris
Kamala Harris has evolved her stance on marijuana, moving from a "tough on crime" approach during her time as a prosecutor to now supporting cannabis reform and decriminalization. Harris co-sponsored the Marijuana Opportunity Reinvestment and Expungement (MORE) Act, which aims to remove marijuana from the Controlled Substances Act and expunge past convictions. She also supports the SAFE Banking Act, a bill that would open up banking access to legal cannabis businesses.
Pearls:
Past Stance: Previously against legalization but now supports decriminalization and expungement.
Current Direction: Focus on federal reforms through decriminalization and banking access.
Impact: Supports cannabis reform that could reduce criminal charges and aid in criminal record expungement, benefiting the criminal justice system.
Donald Trump
Donald Trump’s stance on cannabis has generally been to leave it as a state-level decision, with a limited federal approach. Trump signed the 2018 Farm Bill, which legalized hemp production across the U.S., but he has shown little interest in supporting broader federal marijuana reform.
Key Points:
Past Stance: State-based approach, with a focus on federal law enforcement.
Current Direction: No clear national policy on marijuana, though supportive of hemp cultivation.
Impact: Unlikely to support broad federal reforms, leaving it up to individual states to pursue legalization.
Marijuana and Hemp Ballot Measures in Key Swing States
Ohio: Issue 2
Ohio’s Issue 2 proposes the legalization of adult-use (recreational) marijuana, allowing individuals over 21 to purchase and possess cannabis. If passed, the measure would create a taxed market with revenue dedicated to public health, education, and addiction services. This initiative could increase pressure on neighboring states to adopt similar policies.
Florida: 2024 Cannabis Legalization Amendment
In Florida, voters have the chance to pass the 2024 Cannabis Legalization Amendment, which would legalize recreational marijuana for adults 21 and older. This amendment would not replace Florida’s medical marijuana program, allowing patients continued access to medical cannabis. However, legalization could shift some demand away from medical marijuana cards, expanding access across the state.
Key Points of the Amendment:
Medical Program Impact: Medical marijuana would still be available for qualifying patients, but recreational use could reduce the demand for medical cards.
Passage Likelihood: Florida requires a 60% supermajority to pass, and while polls show support, the outcome remains uncertain.
Implementation: If passed, recreational sales would likely be phased in, regulated by the Florida Department of Health to ensure compliance.
Pennsylvania: Legalization Legislation in Progress
Though Pennsylvania doesn’t have a ballot measure for marijuana this year, active discussions in the state legislature could result in legalization measures in future elections. Pennsylvania’s potential legalization may depend on the influence of neighboring states and public demand.
Arizona: Local Measures and Expungement Provisions
Arizona, which legalized recreational marijuana in 2020, has upcoming local measures refining cannabis regulations and expanding expungement options. Voters will consider initiatives that clarify rules around cultivation and possession limits, and the results may impact policy changes in neighboring swing states.
Health Impacts of Marijuana Legalization
Legalizing marijuana for recreational use raises both potential health benefits and risks. Research has shown benefits for individuals with chronic pain, anxiety, and epilepsy, but there are potential risks, including impacts on mental health and cognitive function, especially in younger users. States that legalize recreational marijuana may implement public health campaigns to educate residents on responsible use.
Pearls:
Legalization may improve access to health benefits but comes with health risks, especially among younger users.
Education initiatives often accompany legalization to promote safe and responsible use.
The Influence of Marijuana Legalization on Insurance, Workplace Rules, and the Criminal Justice System
Insurance
As more states legalize marijuana, health and life insurers may adjust policies based on cannabis usage. While most insurers currently do not cover medical marijuana, recreational legalization may lead to policy changes in life and disability insurance, as some insurers factor in cannabis use as a risk.
Workplace Rules
Even in states where marijuana is legal, employers may continue enforcing strict workplace policies prohibiting its use. Federal agencies, the military and many companies, especially those in safety-sensitive fields, will likely maintain a no-tolerance stance. Legalization may drive policy shifts, balancing employee privacy with workplace safety.
Criminal Justice System
Legalization could have a significant impact on the criminal justice system, leading to fewer arrests for minor possession and reduced incarceration rates. States that pass expungement measures, like Ohio and Arizona, are also reducing past convictions, helping individuals clear their records and expand job opportunities.
Pearls:
Marijuana legalization has the potential to reduce criminal justice system strain and offer second chances through expungement.
As legalization spreads, insurers and employers may revisit policies on cannabis use.
Hemp-Specific Election Issues
Texas: 2024 Texas Hemp Expansion Initiative
In Texas, the Texas Hemp Expansion Initiative would permit broader hemp cultivation and research. This measure seeks to expand the state’s hemp industry by allowing more research into hemp-based products, such as CBD and industrial applications. Legalizing and expanding hemp farming could bolster the local economy, particularly in agricultural regions, and provide additional research opportunities on hemp’s industrial uses.
Montana: 2024 Hemp for Environmental Impact Study Initiative
The 2024 Hemp for Environmental Impact Study Initiative in Montana seeks to fund studies on hemp's potential in reducing environmental pollutants. By assessing how hemp crops absorb contaminants and improve soil quality, the initiative could establish Montana as a leader in sustainable hemp farming and potentially inspire similar measures nationwide.
How Marijuana Ballot Measures Impact Voter Turnout in Swing States
Ballot measures on marijuana can boost voter turnout, especially among young and independent voters who are typically more supportive of legalization. In swing states like Ohio and Florida, marijuana ballot measures have the potential to influence election outcomes by bringing out voters who may not otherwise participate. States with highly debated measures, such as Florida’s supermajority requirement, could see increased turnout as legalization advocates mobilize to ensure passage.
Wrapping It All Up
Marijuana and hemp legalization are pivotal issues for the 2024 election, affecting healthcare, insurance, workplace rules, and criminal justice. Candidates Kamala Harris and Donald Trump offer contrasting visions, with Harris focusing on reform and Trump maintaining a state-by-state approach. Key ballot measures in Florida, Ohio, and Texas could reshape local policies and drive higher turnout in these states.
As you head to the polls, make sure you consider the potential impacts on health, employment, the environment and reforming the criminal justice system. As I mentioned at the start, I’m voting with my conscience, not my wallet. Whatever your vote may be, just make sure you vote!
We’ve created a wonderful knowledge section for you to read and learn more about cannabis and CBD to help better inform you. If you have any questions about anything you’ve read here, feel free to contact us- we love hearing from you! And, of course if you're interested in purchasing CBD products, you can buy my recommended products here.
Vote Vote Vote! 🗳️
Pearls:
Marijuana ballot measures in swing states could drive voter turnout, potentially affecting election results.
Hemp-specific initiatives may open new agricultural and environmental opportunities, particularly in Texas and Montana.
