A CLEAN SWEEP
Americans across party and state lines approved sweeping cannabis reforms in the 2020 elections . Advocates will now be hoping that the president elect stays true to his word and ushers in a new era of federal reform .
Words by Gordon Stribling
The 2020 American election will go down as one of the most controversial in recent memory . Despite Joe Biden claiming victory President Trump refuses to go down without a fight . But while the presidential election result continues to divide opinion , the voting population was united in supporting cannabis reform at the ballot box .
Arizona
Proposition 207 was approved by 60 % of voters , legalizing the possession and use of cannabis for recreational use . The measure also expunges the records of individuals convicted of cannabis crimes , including felony possession . The state will also introduce ‘ social equity ’ licenses aimed at supporting communities disproportionately impacted by cannabis prohibition .
Montana
More than 56 % of voters approved Initiative-190 , which legalizes the possession of up to an ounce of cannabis for individuals aged 21 and above . Legal adults are also permitted to cultivate up for four mature plants in an enclosed area out of public view .
New Jersey
Public Question No . 1 will legalize possession and use of recreational cannabis for adult consumers . Medical cannabis is already legal in the state .
The vote will amend the state constitution , a move that drew controversy from critics including Don ' t Let NJ Go to Pot executive director , Gregg Edwards , who said : “[ Once ] it ' s in the Constitution , the likelihood of it coming out is slim or next to none ."
South Dakota
South Dakota is the first state to legalize medical and recreational cannabis on the same day .
Constitutional Amendment A legalizes possession and use of cannabis by adults . Adults can also grow up to three plants for personal use , if they live in a jurisdiction without a licensed medical cannabis retailer . Distribution and sales are subject to a 15 % tax .
Meanwhile , individuals with debilitating health conditions can possess and buy up to 3oz of medical cannabis from licensed dispensaries .
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