A recent survey conducted by the Pew Research Center reveals that an overwhelming majority of Americans, nine out of ten, support the legalization of cannabis for either medical or recreational purposes. Further, most respondents believe that legalizing cannabis enhances local economic growth and promotes fairness within the justice system.
Released on March 26, 2024, the report indicates that 88% of Americans endorse some form of legalization, with 57% advocating for both medical and recreational use accessibility. Only a small fraction, 11%, opposes marijuana legalization entirely. The survey identified consistent patterns among various demographics. Democrats showed higher support for complete legalization (72%) compared to Republicans (42%). However, the vast majority of both parties, 94% and 82% of Democrats and Republicans, respectively, support legalization for medical use at least.
The poll highlighted ideological differences within parties, noting that liberal and moderate-leaning Republicans are more likely to support full legalization (57%) compared to conservative Republicans (34%). Respondents were also asked about their opinions on the societal effects of legalizing cannabis for recreational use. A majority, 52%, believe that legalization benefits local economies, while 42% think it leads to a fairer justice system.
Divergent opinions emerged on how legalization would affect drug use and public safety. While 27% believe cannabis legalization decreases the use of other drugs, including fentanyl and heroin, 29% think it increases their use. Similarly, 34% believe that legalization makes communities less safe, while 21% argue it improves safety.
The poll highlights partisan and age differences, noting that older adults are less likely to support legalization compared to younger adults. For instance, only 31% of adults aged 75 and older support legalization for both recreational and medical use, compared to 50% of adults aged 65 to 74.
This survey is part of a series showing growing support for ending cannabis prohibition. A Gallup poll conducted last year found record-high national support for legalization, with seven out of ten Americans backing it. Moreover, a recent survey revealed strong bipartisan support for congressional legislation protecting states’ rights to set their own cannabis laws.
According to a different Pew study published last month, eight out of ten Americans live in counties with one or more cannabis dispensaries. The data also showed a large number of cross-border purchases from jurisdictions where cannabis was still illegal, with outlets frequently clustered along the borders of states with stronger marijuana regulations.
Paul Armentano, NORML deputy director, commented on the recent findings, stating that public support for legalization has surged as more states adopt it. Armentano noted that voters prefer regulation and legalization over the failed prohibition policy.
For cannabis companies such as Software Effective Solutions Corp. (d/b/a MedCana) (OTC: SFWJ), federal policy reforms that recognize the marijuana industry as a legitimate form of business at the federal level would address many of the hurdles that these entities face in their bid to serve the growing consumer base across the country.
NOTE TO INVESTORS: The latest news and updates relating to Software Effective Solutions Corp. (d/b/a MedCana) (OTC: SFWJ) are available in the company’s newsroom at https://cnw.fm/SFWJ
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