Wondering if cannabis is legal in the United States? Is cannabis legal in the United States? It’s a question worth asking as laws are changing rapidly. In this article, we’ll take a look at how U.S. law has changed and what it means for consumers in 2025.
The Evolution of American Cannabis Legislation
The history of cannabis in the United States is marked by waves of prohibition and legalization. In the 1930s, cannabis was banned at the federal level, considering the plant a dangerous substance. However, starting in the 1990s, some states began to allow the medical use of cannabis, recognizing its therapeutic properties . In 2012, Colorado and Washington State were the first to legalize recreational use. Since then, the trend has accelerated.
By 2025, the legal landscape has changed dramatically. With 38 states having legalized recreational cannabis and 48 states having legalized medical use, the majority of Americans live in areas where cannabis is legally available . This shift reflects a major cultural and political shift, with cannabis becoming increasingly accepted in American society.
Federal legalization of cannabis
A turning point came in 2024 with the passage of the "Cannabis Reform Act." This legislation removed cannabis from the list of controlled substances at the federal level, ending nearly 90 years of prohibition. This federal legalization of cannabis harmonized certain regulations, notably facilitating banking transactions for companies in the sector and scientific research.
Despite this progress, the federal government has left states with the power to regulate sales and consumption within their jurisdictions, creating a complex legal landscape. Businesses must navigate federal, state and local laws to operate legally.
Differences from state to state
Cannabis legislation in the United States remains a patchwork of laws. For example, in California, the world’s largest legal cannabis market, residents can possess up to 1 ounce and grow up to six plants for personal use. Conversely, in states like Idaho, cannabis remains entirely illegal, with no exceptions for medical use. This disparity requires consumers and businesses to be constantly informed of local laws.
By 2025, it is estimated that more than 70 million Americans will live in states where cannabis is still illegal for recreational use. This creates gray areas, especially for travelers and people living near interstate borders.
The economic impact of legalization
The legalization of cannabis has had a major economic impact in the United States. By 2025, the legal cannabis market is expected to generate more than $45 billion in revenue, a 20% increase from 2024. This growth is fueled by increased demand, product innovation , and expansion of points of sale.
The cannabis sector now employs more than 400,000 people across the country, surpassing traditional industries like textiles and telecommunications. Tax revenue from cannabis is expected to reach $10 billion by 2025, funding public programs in education, health care and infrastructure.
Black market in decline, "grey market" persists
Legalization has helped reduce the black market for cannabis, once estimated at $50 billion a year. However, a “gray market” persists due to high taxes in some states and regulatory restrictions. In California, for example, nearly 30% of cannabis consumed still comes from unofficial sources. Authorities are working to reduce this by adjusting taxes and simplifying licensing processes. The goal is to integrate these players into the legal cannabis market and ensure product safety for consumers.
Increase in consumption among adults
With legalization, adult cannabis use has seen a notable increase. A national study reported that 27% of Americans aged 21 and older have used cannabis at least once in 2025. This increase is particularly pronounced among 25-34 year olds, 40% of whom report regular use. Reasons given include well-being , stress management, and seeking new recreational experiences .
However, health authorities are closely monitoring this trend to prevent associated risks, particularly in terms of addiction and mental health. Prevention and education campaigns are being implemented to promote responsible consumption.
The "concentrates" are worrying
High-THC products, such as oils , dabs, and vaporizer cartridges, are growing in popularity. By 2025, these cannabis concentrates will account for 25% of total cannabis sales in the United States. Their potency can reach up to 90% THC, well above traditional flowers, which contain an average of 15-20% THC.
This popularity has raised concerns among health professionals. The potentially more intense effects and increased risks of overconsumption require special vigilance. Regulators are considering implementing concentration limits and more visible warnings on packaging to inform consumers.
Canadian border
Despite legalization in both countries, crossing the Canada-US border with cannabis is strictly prohibited. Customs laws are clear: any transport of cannabis between the two countries is illegal and subject to severe penalties, including fines of up to $250,000 and prison sentences. In 2024, more than 1,200 individuals were arrested for attempting to smuggle cannabis across the border.
Travellers should be aware that even a small amount of cannabis residue on personal items can cause problems during customs checks. It is therefore recommended to carefully check your belongings before travelling and to strictly comply with the laws in force.
A "monumental" decision
The federal legalization of cannabis is considered a "monumental" decision by many observers. It marks a break with decades of "war on drugs" policies that have led to the incarceration of millions of people, particularly ethnic minorities. By 2025, more than 500,000 people imprisoned for minor cannabis-related offenses had been pardoned or had their cases reassessed.
This step forward not only helps to redress some of the injustices of the past, but also opens the door to more open discussions about drug policy, public health and social justice in the United States.
Investor pool
The cannabis sector has become a veritable El Dorado for investors. By 2025, private and institutional investments in the industry have exceeded $20 billion. Mergers and acquisitions are multiplying, creating increasingly large and vertically integrated companies, ranging from cultivation to distribution to research and development.
Emerging areas such as innovative edibles , cannabis-infused beverages, and technology applications for supply chain tracking are attracting particular attention. Experts predict that the market could double by 2030, offering unprecedented opportunities for entrepreneurs and investors.
Conclusion
In summary, is cannabis legal in the United States ? Yes, in 2025, the legislative landscape has evolved to allow for federal legalization, while leaving states in control of local regulation. This new era of cannabis brings many economic opportunities, but also challenges in terms of public health, regulation, and social justice.
It is essential for consumers to stay informed about the laws in each state, to consume responsibly, and to participate in an ongoing dialogue about the impacts of this substance on society. Cannabis is no longer just a legal issue, but has become an integral part of the cultural and economic fabric of the United States.
