Florida and Dakotas reject legalization, but Nebraska votes for medicine

The 2024 election results were mostly mixed and leaned negatively for the legal cannabis industry.

Voters in Florida, North Dakota and South Dakota failed to legalize marijuana for adult use. However, there is some good news as Nebraska has legalized medical marijuana and its production and sale.

It's an interesting crossroads for the space. With Trump returning to the White House in 2025, federal marijuana-related initiatives could look very different than they did during the previous presidency. Also on the agenda: The Drug Enforcement Administration will hold hearings in early 2025 to consider a possible reclassification of cannabis to a Schedule 3 substance.

According to a November 2023 Gallup poll, although most Americans (70%) support legalizing cannabis, there is uncertainty in the industry.

Let's also not forget that the majority of Americans (54%) currently live in a state or territory that has legalized cannabis for adults over 21, according to a recent Pew Research study.

Although industry leaders expressed disappointment over the failed passage of measures in Florida, North Dakota and South Dakota, there is significant optimism for the growing industry.

Regarding the failure of the measure in Florida, Ricky Williams, former NFL running back for the Miami Dolphins and founder of the cannabis brand Highsman, said: “I know what it's like to lose something through cannabis.” I lost time in my career. I lost the respect of people who didn't understand it. It's frustrating that the vote didn't pass, but it's just another step along the way. The movement for cannabis reform continues to grow and we will continue to push until everyone is ready to catch up.”

Gurpreet Sahani, CEO of The Blinc Group, a New York City-based manufacturer of cannabis vaping hardware, echoed Williams' sentiments, citing North Dakota's failure to legalize.

“Although this vote did not result in the legalization of recreational cannabis, the push for reform is far from over,” Sahani said. “Cannabis has already become part of the national conversation and North Dakota’s progress toward legalization will continue. Advocates will continue to push for a regulatory framework that promotes responsible use, economic growth and social justice to ensure these efforts are more fully reflected in the next election cycle.”

Conversely, the vote in Nebraska to allow a medical cannabis market sparked some cheer despite the downvotes.

Greenlight CEO and co-founder John Mueller, who said his company has invested heavily in the initiative, was pleased with the measure's passage.

“Today’s decision by Nebraska voters marks the end of unnecessary delays and the beginning of a modern medical cannabis program based on best health practices,” Mueller said… “This program will transform lives in Nebraska, creating career opportunities while ensuring that patients receive comprehensive care.” tested, regulated medicine.”