Which US states could legalize cannabis by 2025?

While the cannabis legalization is continuing on a state-by-state basis in the United States, pending a change at federal level, several states are showing a strong desire to end prohibition in 2025.

With changing political landscapes, new legislative proposals and growing public support, states like Pennsylvania, Hawaii, Wisconsin, North Carolina, South Carolina, Kansas, Virginia and New Hampshire could be the next to legalize’adult or medical use of cannabis. Here's an overview of the situation in these states.

Pennsylvania

The Pennsylvania has established itself as one of the leading candidates to the cannabis reform in 2025. The Democratic governor Josh Shapiro has consistently expressed support for legalization and is expected to include it in its next budget proposal. Although several legislators have introduced bills - ranging from decriminalization to a state-run retail model - consensus remains elusive.

According to Karen O'Keefe, MPP Director of State Policy, the Pennsylvania gained ground, but has yet to pass legislation in both chambers. Republican Senator Dan Laughlin insisted on the need for a cautious approach «It's a subject we need to approach with caution... and make sure that if we do it, we do it responsibly.»

As bipartisan discussions progress, Pennsylvania could be a key battleground for the cannabis legalization in 2025.

Hawaii 

Hawaii has repeated attempts to legalize the adult-use cannabis, but these efforts have always been blocked at the House of Representatives. The year 2025 could be different due to changes in leadership, including the new Chamber President Nadine Nakamura, who is in favor of legalization.

With the continued support of Governor Josh Green and legislative adjustments to address past concerns, legalization advocates are optimistic. The next Mr. Tarnas should be more favorable, increasing its chances of adoption.

Wisconsin

Whereas Democratic Governor Tony Evers supports full legalization, the Republican legislators remain hesitant. A bill on the medical marijuana is more likely to be adopted in 2025, even if Democratic leaders continue to debate key details.

Senate Majority Leader , Devin LeMahieu, said that any medical cannabis bill must be strictly regulated: «If a medical cannabis bill is proposed and potentially passed, it will have to be prescribed by a doctor, probably through a pharmacy.»

In the meantime, Mr. Evers lobbies for a electoral initiative process, which could allow Wisconsin voters to decide directly on legalization in the future. However, given the state's political divide, medical legalization seems to be the most viable option in the short term.

North Carolina and South Carolina

North Carolina and South Carolina are both considering the medical legalization of cannabis. cannabis, but legislative obstacles remain. Visit North Carolina, Republican Speaker of the House of Representatives , Tim Moore, has already blocked a medical cannabis bill, citing the need to secure the support of at least 37 Republican MPs, whereas the Senate had voted in favour. If a bipartisan agreement is reached, a bill could be passed in 2025.

Visit South Carolina, Senator Tom Davis (R) has relaunched a bill on medical cannabis to create therapeutic cannabis pharmacies. Although supporters remain hopeful, the bill's fate will depend on whether GOP leaders agree to bring it to a vote.

Kansas

Kansas enjoys growing support for the medical marijuana, the Democratic Governor Laura Kelly supporting legalization efforts. However, the Republican leaders remain cautious. The President of the Senate , Ty Masterson, said «This is a serious subject that requires due diligence to determine whether a better model is possible.»

With over 70 % from the Kansans In the case of the pro-legalization movement, the legislature could finally take action in 2025. However, human rights advocates warn that if the legislature doesn't act soon, the issue risks being postponed until at least 2026.

Virginie

The Virginie a legalized possession and personal cultivation in 2021, but still does not have a regulated market. Republican Governor Glenn Youngkin has vetoed previous attempts to create a retail framework, and lawmakers expect another veto in 2025.

Despite this, Democratic Rep. Paul Krizek and the Senator Aaron Rouse have reintroduced a sales bill that recently passed a Senate committee. Advocates believe that continuing to push for regulation will set a precedent for the next governor, increasing the chances of future success.