Marijuana Legal Status in Various States and the Rising Demand for CBD Oils
In the U.S., marijuana regulation is an ever-evolving topic, constantly adapting to societal shifts and changes in perception towards cannabis use. The marijuana plant produces chemicals such as THC and CBD oils, both of which have diverse properties and consequently, numerous regulation practices behind them.
As the 21st century has progressed, we’ve witnessed an incredible surge in the number of states that have adopted a more relaxed approach towards marijuana use, either for recreational or medicinal purposes. As of 2021, both forms of use are legalized in 18 states and the District of Columbia. States include Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Illinois, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Montana, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, South Dakota, Vermont, and Washington.
Medicinal use of marijuana, which includes the use of CBD oils, is permitted in 36 states, four out of five permanently inhabited U.S. territories, and literally half of the D.C. This is significant as CBD oil, a product of the marijuana plant, has shown potential in treating various health conditions without presenting psychoactive effects to the users.
Despite this steady march towards broad acceptance, there are still states in which marijuana use is prohibited both for recreational and medicinal usage. States like Idaho, Nebraska, and Kansas have not legislated any laws for marijuana usage, despite the potential medicinal benefits of products such as CBD oils.
The gray area lies with states that have simply decriminalized marijuana, reducing penalties and possession charges associated with the substance. This is the case in 13 states wherein the use of marijuana is illegal but the charges are not as harsh as they used to be. Decriminalization is often seen as a step towards legalization.
So what does this all mean for CBD oils?
In the wake of this progressive trend, the market for CBD oils has exploded, leading to a boom in businesses and product availability. These oils, non-psychoactive and rich in health benefits, have gained widespread acceptance from a therapeutic point of view.
Issues arise, however, considering the lack of federal regulation on CBD oils. As a result of the absence, the market is rife with quality-control issues, leading to a lack of consistency and reliability in terms of product efficacy. Necessary regulation is in dire need to ensure public safety and optimize the medicinal benefits of these products.
The trends in marijuana legalization, in conjunction with the rise of cannabinoid therapeutics, represent an interesting shift in both societal attitudes and healthcare approaches. It reflects an understanding of the potential benefits that marijuana, and CBD oils, in particular, can provide.
As the movement continues and state legislature progresses, it is clear that the consumption, production, and overall opinion around marijuana, specifically CBD oils, are bound to shift significantly.