Adults only (18+)

National Context and Federal Law

At the federal level, cannabis remains classified as a Schedule I controlled substance under the Controlled Substances Act, meaning it is illegal nationwide for both medical and recreational purposes. However, numerous states have enacted their own laws allowing recreational or medical cannabis use. Federal authorities generally do not enforce cannabis laws in states where use is authorised, but interstate transport remains prohibited under federal jurisdiction.

States That Have Legalised Recreational Cannabis

As of mid‑2025, recreational cannabis is legal in 24 US states plus the District of Columbia. States where adult‑use marijuana is fully legal include Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia and Washington. Washington, DC also allows regulated recreational use under local law

Recent Additions to Legalisation

Three states Minnesota, Virginia and Ohio legalised recreational cannabis via ballot initiatives or legislation in 2023. Although legalisation has passed, commercial sales in some of these states are scheduled to begin later in 2025 or early 2026, pending regulatory setups

Medical Cannabis Legal Status

A much larger number of states now allow medical cannabis use. As of June 2025, a total of 48 states plus Washington, DC and three territories have legal medical cannabis programs. Only Nebraska and Idaho do not offer general medical cannabis under state law, though some permit limited low‑THC or CBD access

Decriminalisation in Other States

In addition to the states that have legalised recreational use, seven states have decriminalised cannabis possession, meaning small amounts may result in fines rather than criminal charges. These states generally treat possession as a civil offence. However, recreational sales and full legalisation are not permitted in these jurisdictions

What Legalisation Enables for Consumers

In states with recreational legalisation, adults aged 21 and over may typically purchase, possess and sometimes cultivate limited quantities of cannabis for personal use. Most jurisdictions allow cultivation of a small number of plants at home. Legal markets operate through state‑licensed dispensaries, subject to state regulatory frameworks. While the laws vary by state, these legalisations establish regulated access and a safer alternative to illegal supply.

Why Legalisation Remains Limited Nationwide

Despite growing acceptance, less than half of US states permit recreational cannabis use. Legalisation remains fragmented due to political factors, federal drug treaties, public health concerns and differing social attitudes. Many states began with medical programmes before expanding to allow adult recreational use. Decriminalisation without full legalisation is also a middle ground in some states where reform has stalled.

Summary

By mid‑2025, 24 US states and Washington, DC have fully legalised recreational cannabis for adults, with Minnesota, Virginia and Ohio being the most recent additions. A broader majority around 48 states plus DC and territories allow medical cannabis. A smaller group of states have decriminalised possession without allowing recreational sales. Regulations vary widely, so anyone using cannabis in the US should know the rules of their specific state.