Cannabis Policy in the United States: Implications for Public Health

Abstract

Abstract Introduction As of January 2021, a total of 36 states and the District of Columbia (DC) have legalized medical cannabis use, and 14 states and DC have legalized adult nonmedical use. This manuscript qualitatively summarizes cannabis policies across states with legal adult use marketplaces. Methods Data are from state laws and regulations, collected through January 2021, and have been verified with state officials as part of ongoing state policy tracking efforts. Results State policies differ in how cannabis products are taxed, where revenues are allocated, restrictions on the types of available products, restrictions on additives and flavors, product packaging and labeling, advertising restrictions, where cannabis can be consumed, and approaches to social equity. Conclusion Timely, accurate, and longitudinal state and local cannabis policy data are needed to understand the implications of legalization. Careful study of policy differences across and within states is warranted, as differences may affect public health and consumer safety.