Will Idaho Ever Legalize Weed?
The state of Idaho has a long history of being conservative when it comes to marijuana policy, and currently, the drug remains illegal for recreational use. Despite growing public support for the legalization of marijuana in the United States, Idaho remains one of the few states to have not yet passed any form of marijuana reform.
Current Marijuana Laws in Idaho
Currently, marijuana is illegal for recreational use in Idaho, and possession of any amount of marijuana is considered a misdemeanor and can carry a sentence of up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $1,000. The possession of more than three ounces is considered a felony and can result in a much harsher sentence.
Medical marijuana is also illegal in Idaho, though there is a limited program for those suffering from intractable epilepsy. This program is extremely restrictive and does not allow for the legal use of marijuana for any other medical conditions.
Public Opinion on Marijuana in Idaho
Public opinion on marijuana in Idaho is changing, and a recent poll showed that a majority of Idahoans now support the legalization of marijuana for medical purposes. However, support for recreational legalization remains low, with only around 40% of Idahoans in favor.
Will Idaho Ever Legalize Weed?
Given the current conservative stance on marijuana in Idaho, it is unlikely that the state will legalize marijuana for recreational use any time soon. However, it is possible that the state may eventually pass some form of medical marijuana reform.
In the meantime, advocates for marijuana reform are working hard to educate the public about the benefits of marijuana and the potential harms of keeping it illegal. As public opinion continues to shift, it is possible that Idaho may eventually pass some form of marijuana reform in the future.
Further Reading
For more information on marijuana laws in Idaho, visit NORML.
To learn more about public opinion on marijuana in Idaho, see this article.