Cannabis laws in the United States can be confusing. That’s because cannabis is still illegal at the federal level—but many states have created their own laws to legalize it for medical or recreational use.
Whether you’re a patient, a shopper, or a supporter of cannabis legalization, it’s important to know what’s legal in your state and what could still get you in trouble.
Federal Law vs. State Law
- Federal Law: Cannabis is a Schedule I drug, which means it’s considered illegal with no accepted medical use. That includes all forms—THC, marijuana flower, edibles, and even some extracts.
- State Law: Many states now allow cannabis for medical use, recreational use, or both.
This means cannabis can be legal in your state but still illegal under federal law.
Note: You can’t carry cannabis across state lines, even if both states have legalized it.
Types of State Legalization
States fall into four main categories when it comes to cannabis laws:
- Fully Legal (Medical + Recreational)
- Examples: California, Colorado, Arizona, Illinois, New York
- Adults over 21 can buy, possess, and use cannabis
- Medical patients may have higher limits or stronger products
- Medical Only
- Examples: Florida, Texas (limited), Pennsylvania
- Only approved patients with qualifying conditions can buy or use cannabis
- Requires a doctor’s recommendation and a medical marijuana card
- CBD-Only or Low-THC Medical Programs
- Examples: Georgia, Iowa, North Carolina
- Only certain cannabis products with very low THC are allowed
- Often used for seizure conditions or other specific illnesses
- Completely Illegal
- Examples: Idaho, South Carolina, Nebraska
- All forms of cannabis are banned
- Possession can lead to arrest, fines, or jail
What About Hemp and CBD?
Thanks to the 2018 Farm Bill, hemp is legal nationwide as long as it contains less than 0.3% THC.
This means:
- Hemp-derived CBD products (like oils, gummies, and lotions) can be sold across state lines
- Some states still limit or restrict sales of CBD, especially in food or drinks
- Always check local rules for how CBD is regulated
Workplace and Housing Rules Still Apply
Even if cannabis is legal in your state:
- Your employer may still test for it and enforce drug-free policies
- Your landlord may ban smoking cannabis in your rental
- Driving under the influence of cannabis is still illegal everywhere
It’s legal—but not always allowed everywhere.
Key Numbers (as of 2025)
- 24+ states allow recreational use
- 40+ states have medical marijuana programs
- 100% of the U.S. allows some form of hemp-derived CBD
- Federal legalization still pending, with rescheduling discussions ongoing
Note: These numbers change often—always check your local laws.
Why This Matters
Knowing the law helps you:
- Shop and use cannabis legally and safely
- Avoid fines, arrest, or legal trouble
- Support smart legalization efforts in your area
Being informed is the first step toward making cannabis safer and more accepted for everyone.
