The legalization of cannabis in the U.S. has been a topic that is not new. There has been a lot of discussion with various states moving ahead and legalizing the usage of cannabis. However, there are a few that have the most draconian cannabis laws in 2024.
As the perception thrives that marijuana is the cause of crimes, many states continue to be reluctant when it comes to legalizing it. However, the stats from the NORML (National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws) paint a different picture.
Stats show that adult-use marijuana laws are not associated with an uptick in overall criminal activity. So, what are some of the bizarre laws you can find regarding it in some states? Find out more about states where cannabis is still illegal through this article.
States with Bizarre Cannabis Laws in 2024:
While some states allow cannabis for CBD only, others have a complete ban on it. This means that individuals can end up in jail just for possessing cannabis. The situation is severe enough that they might have to get a criminal defense lawyer if they end up with cannabis in one of the following states:
- Idaho
- Indiana
- Kansas
- Nebraska
- North Carolina
- South Carolina
- Tennessee
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
Let’s learn more to what extent is the usage of cannabis legal in each of these states.
· Idaho – Completely Illegal:
When it comes to using cannabis for medical or recreational purposes, the state of Idaho hasn’t budged. It places a complete ban on the usage and possession of the drug. If anyone is caught with 3 ounces of marijuana, then it can lead to either a $10,000 fine or 5 years’ imprisonment (both in some cases). Anything under 3 ounces counts as a misdemeanor offense.
· Indiana – CBD Only:
Unlike Idaho, Indiana allows you the usage of cannabis for CBD only. The state is also making progress when it comes to legalizing cannabis. It allows the sale, purchase, and possession of low-THC CBD—low being a measly 0.3.
Nevertheless, possessing cannabis is a crime, with anything above 30 grams being a Class D felony, while below that is a misdemeanor offense. The former means individuals might have to deal with jail time and fines.
· Kansas – Completely Illegal:
Kansas is another state where the usage and possession of cannabis remain illegal. If it is a first-time offense, then it means that the person could face a fine of up to $1,000 and 6 months of jail. The state has taken some steps, such as the 2018 CBD legalization only for products with zero THC. It later also introduced a defense bill for CBD oils with low THC.
· North Carolina – Completely Illegal:
Joining the list of Idaho and Kansas, North Carolina also maintains a complete ban on any activities related to cannabis. This means using or cultivating cannabis is illegal in the state. A person in possession of cannabis will have to pay fines or complete jail time, depending on the amount in their possession.
· South Carolina – Completely Illegal:
Just like the North, South Carolina also bans the complete usage of cannabis. While the state did try to take some steps towards legalization with a bill presented to the state assembly, it was dead again, as the House let the clock run out. Therefore, the usage of cannabis for medical or any other purposes is still not allowed in South Carolina.
· Tennessee – Completely Illegal:
2023 saw a glimmer of hope for medicinal cannabis patients in Tennessee. Senator Janice Bowling’s bill passed the Senate Government Operations Committee but stalled in the Judiciary Committee. While the legislation didn’t reach the finish line, a separate bill establishing a study commission for medicinal cannabis did pass. Tennessee’s CBD law, already one of the most restrictive in the nation, saw a minor expansion.
However, this limited improvement offers little solace for patients seeking access to a wider range of cannabis products. Disappointingly, Tennessee remains one of the few states with harsh penalties for cannabis possession, including jail time for any amount.
· Wisconsin and Wyoming – Completely Illegal:
Lastly, both the states of Wisconsin and Wyoming have also banned the complete usage of marijuana. While a full legalization proposal fell short in 2021, advocates for cannabis reform in Wyoming didn’t lose momentum. For the 2022 legislative session, the focus shifted towards more achievable goals.
Proposals for decriminalization and a medical marijuana program were introduced, aiming to establish a framework for responsible cannabis use in the state. Either way, both states have a complete ban on the usage of cannabis.
While some states remain opposed, the overall trend leans toward the legalization of cannabis. Even within the federal government, traditionally a holdout, signs of bipartisan cooperation are emerging. Some Republicans continue to oppose reform. Nevertheless, a growing number across the aisle recognize the potential benefits of reform. This emerging bipartisanship bodes well for the future of cannabis policy changes in the U.S.
