Cannabis laws in the United States have evolved rapidly over the past decade, leading to a patchwork of regulations that vary widely by state. As of 2024, cannabis is fully legal—both for recreational and medical use—in 24 states, as well as Washington D.C., and three U.S. territories. Meanwhile, an additional 14 states have legalized cannabis strictly for medical use, reflecting the broader acceptance of cannabis for therapeutic purposes. Here’s a detailed overview of where cannabis is legal in the U.S. in 2024.
States Where Cannabis is Fully Legal (Recreational and Medical Use)
As of 2024, the following 24 states, along with Washington D.C., Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, have legalized cannabis for both recreational and medical use:
- Alaska
- Arizona
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- Illinois
- Maine
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Missouri
- Montana
- Nevada
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- New York
- Ohio
- Oregon
- Rhode Island
- Vermont
- Virginia
- Washington
- District of Columbia
- Guam
- Northern Mariana Islands
- U.S. Virgin Islands
In these states and territories, adults aged 21 and over can purchase and possess cannabis for personal use. Each state has specific regulations regarding the amount one can possess, where it can be consumed, and how it can be legally purchased, usually from state-licensed dispensaries.
States Where Cannabis is Legal for Medical Use Only
In addition to the states where cannabis is fully legal, 14 states have legalized cannabis for medical use only. These states allow patients with qualifying medical conditions to use cannabis with a doctor’s recommendation:
- Alabama
- Arkansas
- Florida
- Georgia
- Hawaii
- Louisiana
- Mississippi
- New Hampshire
- North Dakota
- Oklahoma
- Pennsylvania
- South Dakota
- Utah
- West Virginia
Patients in these states must typically register with the state to receive a medical marijuana card, which allows them to purchase cannabis from licensed dispensaries. The conditions that qualify for medical cannabis use vary by state but often include chronic pain, epilepsy, cancer, and multiple sclerosis, among others.
States Where Cannabis is Still Illegal or Restricted
Despite the growing trend toward legalization, some states still prohibit cannabis use in all forms, or only allow the use of low-THC CBD oil. States where cannabis remains fully illegal or highly restricted include:
- Idaho
- Indiana
- Kansas
- Kentucky (CBD Oil Only)
- Nebraska
- North Carolina
- South Carolina
- Tennessee
- Texas (CBD Oil Only)
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
In these states, possession of cannabis can result in significant legal penalties, and there are no legal pathways for medical or recreational use. However, as public opinion continues to shift, it's possible these states may reconsider their positions in the future.
The legal landscape for cannabis in the United States is diverse and constantly changing. While many states have embraced both medical and recreational use, others remain hesitant. Whether you are a resident or a traveler, it's crucial to stay informed about the specific laws in your state or any state you plan to visit.