The first state that could reverse marijuana legalization laws
A man holds a joint during the annual march to support the legalization of marijuana, in Sao Paulo, Brazil (Reuters)
Activists in Massachusetts claim to have gathered enough petition signatures to force a referendum on repealing the state’s 2016 law legalizing recreational marijuana sales.
If the anti-cannabis movement succeeds in getting the issue onto November’s midterm election ballot, Massachusetts could become the first US state to overturn cannabis legalisation.
The Coalition for a Healthy Massachusetts, advocating for repeal, cites concerns over commercialisation, increased potency, youth usage, and road safety, receiving significant funding from anti-marijuana groups.
The cannabis industry, represented by ‘Stop the Repeal’, is campaigning against the measure, highlighting the substantial tax revenue generated for the state and expressing concern over the threat to businesses.
While an early poll suggested strong opposition to repeal, a more recent survey indicated a closer contest, with official certification of ballot questions expected in July.
