Cannabis Legalization – Global Trends and Impacts

Cannabis legalization is growing globally, and this article will look at some of its trends and impacts.

Where cannabis sales are legalized, daily marijuana use and cannabis Use Disorder (CUD) have both seen increases. This seems to be partially due to easier availability and reduced perceptions of risk.

Legalization in the United States

Although cannabis https://westcoastbud.io/ remains illegal at a federal level in the US, some states have legalized its medicinal or recreational use for various reasons. As yet, most research on its impact has been limited and requires further exploration across a range of regions.

At present, it remains unclear whether an increase in cannabis prevalence seen in states that legalize marijuana is attributable solely to marijuana itself, or is driven by factors like reduced stigma or the availability of medical products containing THC. Furthermore, whether cannabis can actually treat certain illnesses like psychosis remains to be established.

Washington, D.C. offers legal marijuana to adults 21 and over through licensed dispensaries; however, the market remains dormant due to an impasse created by a rider in the federal budget which prevents local officials from regulating and taxing sales. Lawmakers have introduced two bills this year seeking to legalize adult-use sales as well as permit residents to grow six plants in their home.

Legalization in Canada

Comparative to tobacco and alcohol advertising, cannabis advertising tends to be less noticeable; however, promotional activities can still have a major effect on its appeal, social acceptance, and “normalization.” To address this problem, the Cannabis Act places restrictions on advertising of both cannabis and its accessories.

Additionally, the Act allows people to grow cannabis for recreational use at home as well as providing support to small businesses. Unfortunately, some community members are concerned about its possible impact on racialized and indigenous communities and advocate for culturally responsive services that focus on intersectional identities as well as anti-oppressive practices.

The Government of Canada held consultations with stakeholders regarding various issues surrounding cannabis legalization and regulation. Their feedback will be considered during this legislative review of the Cannabis Act; for more information visit its legislative review page or send your comments directly to Health Canada by email.

Legalization in Europe

Attitudes toward cannabis in Europe have been shifting quickly. One significant part of this movement has been Germany’s move to legalize recreational use – possibly an early step toward an Europe-wide market but not without challenges.

Germany differs significantly from its Dutch counterpart in that cultivation and trade remain illegal; any individual caught possessing even small quantities could face criminal prosecution under Germany’s national drug policies, as prescribed in EU’s framework decision on drugs; penalties vary widely according to individual countries’ local drug usage regulations.

Complying with Germany’s plans while adhering to the requirements of the 1985 Schengen Agreement can prove tricky; signatories have committed themselves to prevent the smuggling of drugs across borders. Germany’s plans require changing EU law, so bordering countries could oppose them strongly.

Legalization in Australia

As legalization becomes an increasing trend around the globe, Australia’s leaders are deliberating over how cannabis should fit into society. Although cannabis remains illegal under federal law, Victoria, NSW and WA states have introduced draft laws permitting adults to grow their own marijuana plants.

These states would not alter criminal penalties for minor infractions, but would regulate production, sale and possession of recreational cannabis. Similar to what exists in Australia Capital Territory’s system, cannabis could even be given as gifts between adults.

Lenton suggests following Uruguay’s example and creating government-registered, non-profit “cannabis social clubs.” These clubs cultivate their own plants before selling them through pharmacies where quality and supply can be managed, offering an alternative model that would help Australia reach “middle ground” between illicit consumption and the full commercialisation seen in North America while taking pressure off illegal markets.