Voters in Five States Weigh in on Cannabis Proposals

Proposals to enact adult-use cannabis laws were on the ballot in five states yesterday and the results for the industry were mixed, with voters in two states approving measures, while defeating proposals in three others.

Arkansas

Although only 85% of precincts have reported results, it appears that Issue 4 will be defeated, as 44% of reported voters cast ballots in its favor and 56% voted against. Issue 4 would have amended the Arkansas Constitution to legalize the use of cannabis by adults aged 21 years and older, and imposed a 10% sales tax on all cannabis sales.

Maryland

With 92% of precincts reporting results, Question 4 appears well on its way to being approved overwhelmingly, with 65.5% of reported voters supporting the proposal and only 34.5% opposing.

Question 4 amends the Maryland Constitution to legalize cannabis use by adults aged 21 years and older, and allows the General Assembly to set a tax rate on the sale of cannabis products. The amendment is effective July 1, 2023 and allows for personal possession of up to 1.5 ounces of cannabis. Possession of more than 1.5 ounces will still be punishable and carry a civil fine of up to $250. A framework for retail cannabis sales has not yet been established, but discussion regarding the process is expected to begin during the next General Assembly session in January.

Missouri

With 53% of voters supporting the constitutional amendment and 47% opposing, Amendment 3 appears well on its way to passing with 89% of precincts reporting.

Amendment 3 amends the Missouri Constitution to legalize cannabis use by individuals 21 years of age and older, and sets a 6% sales tax on cannabis sales, along with establishing regulations for the retail industry. Additionally, the amendment calls for the expungement of arrest and conviction records of non-violent, cannabis-related offenses, except for those involving driving under the influence and sales to minors. The amendment is effective in December and businesses could potentially be ready to sell to the adult-use market in February 2023.

North Dakota

North Dakotans rejected Measure No. 2, 55% to 45% with nearly all precincts reporting results. Measure 2 would have legalized the use and sale of cannabis by adults aged 21 years and older

South Dakota

With 97% of precincts reporting, it appears that Measure 27 has been defeated, 53% to 47%. Measure 27 would have legalized cannabis use by individuals 21 years of age and older.

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