Majority of Americans Support Legalization of Cannabis for Medical and Recreational Use
As the legalization of cannabis for recreational use continues to gain momentum across states, Americans overwhelmingly express support for both medical and recreational use of the drug. According to a recent survey conducted by the Pew Research Center, 88% of U.S. adults believe that cannabis should be legal for either medical or recreational purposes.
The survey, conducted from January 16 to 21, 2024, among 5,140 adults, revealed that nearly six-in-ten Americans (57%) advocate for legalizing cannabis for both medical and recreational purposes, while around a third (32%) support legalization solely for medical use. Only a small minority (11%) opposes legalization altogether.
While a majority of Americans favor cannabis legalization, opinions on the impacts of recreational use vary. About half of respondents (52%) believe that legalizing recreational cannabis benefits local economies, while a smaller percentage (17%) perceive it negatively. Additionally, more adults believe that legalization makes the criminal justice system fairer (42%) rather than less fair (18%).
However, Americans hold mixed views on the effects of recreational cannabis legalization on other aspects:
Use of other drugs: Approximately equal proportions of respondents believe that legalization increases (29%) or decreases (27%) the use of other drugs, with 42% indicating no impact.
Community safety: While more Americans perceive legalization as making communities less safe (34%) rather than safer (21%), a significant portion (44%) believes it has no impact.
Partisan differences are evident regarding the impact of recreational cannabis legalization. Democrats tend to view legalization positively, with majorities expressing support for its economic benefits and impact on the criminal justice system. In contrast, Republicans are less supportive and more likely to cite negative consequences, such as increased drug use and reduced community safety.
Demographic factors, including age and race, also influence views on cannabis legalization. Younger adults are more supportive of legalization compared to older generations, and racial disparities exist in perceptions of its impact on drug use and community safety.
Overall, while Americans broadly support cannabis legalization, opinions on its effects vary, reflecting ongoing debates and challenges surrounding cannabis policy in the United States.