Is it right to legalize recreational marijuana? That might be an ongoing debate, but Michigan recently joined the list of states that has legalized recreational marijuana. In fact, it is the first state in the entire Midwest to do so. Voters had backed the legalization step way back in 2018, and starting from December, stores in the state will sell recreational marijuana legally. The officials in the state have issued 18 licenses so far, many of which have been given to processors and those growing recreational marijuana. Many stores are expected to shift their supply of regular medical marijuana for the use of new buyers. It is expected that more sellers and businesses will crop up by January in the state.

Buying recreational marijuana in marijuana

Anyone who is 21 years or older can buy recreational marijuana in the state. The state is likely to offer more licenses in months to come. The maximum sale of recreational marijuana in Michigan is focused in the area of Ann Arbor. It might also mean that the youth will have more access to cannabis, considering University of Michigan is located here. Local jurisdictions can choose to opt in or out – a norm that has been seen in other states as well. If news reports are to be believed, around 80% of Michigan municipalities are said to have opted out, and it remains to be seen how the new law catches up with other jurisdictions.

More on legalization

Illinois  one of the other states that have legalized the use of recreational cannabis in 2019, and it is expected that the sale of products will start from the start of new year. In the US, there are nine states, excluding Michigan and Illinois, that have legalized cannabis for recreational use, besides Washington, DC. Those who have supported legalization believe that that the step comes in handy in managing the crimes related to buying and selling marijuana and also ends the disparities that have been become evident in the arrests made. Not to forget, a considerable amount of money goes into the underground market, which has led to increased crimes.
On the other hand, there are people who believe that legalization only means that recreational marijuana will be available and sold recklessly and products may be sold without any responsibility. The health impact of cannabis is also not clear, as many argue, although more states are likely to follow suit.