Road To Legalization: US States That Are Making The Biggest Legalization Moves

Cannabis legalization is everywhere…almost.

We’re proud to share that 19 states have adopted recreational cannabis use, and 33 have legalized medical marijuana.

We ranked the top states based on their initiatives to destigmatize cannabis and help consumers understand its benefits, which all start with legalization.

See our ranks below.

Colorado was the first state in the country to legalize recreational cannabis. And it did so quite a while ago, back in 2012.

Colorado was the first place worldwide to legalize cannabis for recreational use until Uruguay did so in 2013.

In terms of medical cannabis, Colorado was the sixth state to legalize it after passing a bill in 2000.

California was the sixth state to legalize recreational cannabis but the first to legalize medical cannabis in 1996.

Since it adopted recreational use in 2016, California has become a hub for all things weed.

From the many tours of licensed cultivation sites to West Hollywood’s booming consumption lounges, there are tons of weed-centric activities to experience in Cali.

Washington was the second state to legalize recreational cannabis, adopting it in 2012, just after Colorado.

It was the fourth state to legalize medical cannabis back in 1998.

Interestingly, Washington lacks cannabis consumption lounges due to certain strict regulations, but it has a thriving cannabis tourism scene with;

• Bud & Breakfasts
• Dispensary/cultivation site tours
• Unique getaways

The beautiful state of Alaska legalized medical cannabis in 1998, making it the second state to do so. It legalized recreational use in 2014.

The city with the most cannabis dispensaries is Anchorage, along with Wasilla, Fairbanks, and Valdez.

Alaska’s lush scenery and breathtaking wildlife are definitely things to experience while stoned.

Oregon and Alaska have a similar legalization rate. Both legalized medical marijuana in 1998 and recreational use in 2014.

However, Oregon is one of the most liberal states and even allows psilocybin mushrooms for therapeutic purposes.

Its cannabis scene is thriving; even actor Jim Belushi has his own cannabis farm in southern Oregon.

When Washington DC legalized medical marijuana in 2010, it made headlines that pointed toward the nation’s capital loosening weed laws.

Many thought that Washington DC’s medical legalization would spur some federal moves, but we’re still waiting on that.

Four years after the state legalized medical use, it adopted recreational use in 2014.

Maine was the seventh state to legalize recreational cannabis (2016) and the fourth state to legalize medical marijuana (1999).

In fact, it was one of the first states to decriminalize small amounts of cannabis in 1976.

It wasn’t until 2013 that Portland decriminalized recreational cannabis use, with South Portland following a year later. In 2016, the entire state hopped on board.

While Massachusetts was the 19th state to legalize medical marijuana (2012), it was the 8th state to legalize recreational use (2016).

Since then, Massachusetts’ cannabis scene has been thriving with spooky weed-friendly ghost walks, Bud & Breakfasts, and other tourism efforts.

From the busy Boston streets to small and historic towns, there are lots to do and see in weed-friendly Massachusetts.

Nevada legalized medical marijuana in 2000, making it the eighth state to do so.

Recreational legalization didn’t happen until 2016 when Nevada became the ninth state to adopt such a measure.

Now, the state is crawling with consumption lounges and events to bring in excess revenue from the profitable cannabis industry.

Vermont took its time with cannabis legalization. It adopted a medical marijuana program in 2004 behind nine other states. Similarly, it was the tenth state to legalize recreational cannabis (2016).

A few years before, in 2013, the state had decriminalized cannabis possession for up to one ounce.

However, Vermont lacks recreational dispensaries, which should start making sales by October 2022.

With the legalization of medical marijuana in 33 states, you need an ally to give you the support you need when you need it. And that is why MMJ.com exists.

In simple words, MMJ.com arises from the need to streamline the process of obtaining a recommendation or renewal of the medical marijuana card online in the states that allow it. These are modern times, and needs do not wait. In addition, this innovative service eliminates the need to travel, which for many can be not only expensive but also painful.

At MMJ.com they have a team of highly trained medical marijuana doctors to evaluate patients for medical marijuana. The best part is that patients can get their medical cannabis card recommendation or renewal online from the comfort of their homes.

But what is a medical marijuana card recommendation? A medical marijuana card recommendation is required by each state for a patient to receive a medical marijuana card. Since most states have different medical conditions and requirements, MMJ.com’s team of physicians are fully prepared to evaluate the patient based on the requirements of the medical marijuana program of the state in which they require it.

The process at MMJ.com is quick and easy, you only need to:

1. Login to MMJ.com
2. Select the state of residence in which you are applying for a medical marijuana card or renewal.
3. Make the pre-evaluation.
4. In case the pre-evaluation is approved, you will be asked to schedule a telemedicine evaluation with one of the qualified medical marijuana doctors in your state.
5. Virtually attend the consultation with a medical marijuana physician. The medical marijuana card evaluation will take approximately 10 to 15 minutes. You will be asked to have any previous medical records on hand, along with your valid driver’s license or identification card. The medical marijuana doctor will evaluate your past and current medical conditions.
6. Receive your medical marijuana recommendation and apply to the state registry. After receiving your medical marijuana card recommendation, MMJ.com guides you through state registration.

It’s that easy and straightforward. MMJ.com helps thousands of people get their recommendations or renewals quickly, without bureaucracy, and without leaving home. Start your process right now by visiting MMJ.com.