This year has already gotten off to a concerning start politically. As far as cannabis is concerned, President Trump has appointed Derek S. Maltz as the acting administrator of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).
Maltz has referred to cannabis as a “gateway drug” and seems to follow the same stance on cannabis as previous administrations that perpetrated the War on Drugs. Despite Trump’s apparent support of legalizing cannabis, this appointment can do serious damage to the rescheduling process and advancements advocates have been fighting for.
However, at the state level, 2025 marks progress in several states’ cannabis legalization efforts. In this blog, we’ll go through an overview of recent developments and states poised for potential legalization this year.
States Implementing Legalization in 2025
Kentucky
Kentucky’s medical cannabis program launched on January 1, 2025. Though dispensaries are not yet open, as of October the state has already selected 26 applicants for cultivation and processor licenses through a lottery system.
Eligibility: This program is offered for patients with qualifying medical conditions such as:
- Cancer
- Chronic pain
- PTSD
Products: Products for patients will include:
- Flower
- Edibles
- Tinctures
- Vapes (only for consumers over 21).
Those who are under 18 are able to access medical cannabis through an adult caretaker. However, this program is strictly for Kentuckians, and Tennesseans are not allowed to cross the state line to participate.
States Likely to Consider Legalization in 2025
Hawaii
Hawaii is making significant strides toward legalizing recreational cannabis. In early 2024, the state’s Attorney General released a comprehensive draft bill outlining the framework for legalization.
By March 2024, the bill had cleared most house committees and is still pending a final vote. Advocates remain optimistic, citing the state’s Democratic leadership and growing public support as favorable factors for legalization in 2025.
Pennsylvania
In his 2024–25 budget address, Governor Josh Shapiro urged the Pennsylvania legislature to legalize cannabis. He highlighted potential annual revenues of $250 million and the benefits of reallocating law enforcement resources to more pressing issues.
House Bill 2210, aiming to legalize cannabis, was introduced and referred to the Health Committee in April 2024. Now, the state awaits legislative action to advance legalization efforts in 2025.
Wisconsin
Wisconsin remains one of the few states without any form of marijuana legalization. Despite the broad public support and their neighbors Michigan, Illinois, and Minnesota having legalized cannabis for adult use, Wisconsin remains an outlier.
In early January 2025, Governor Tony Evers proposed allowing citizen-initiated ballot measures to legalize cannabis to try to bypass legislative gridlock. Additionally, the minority leader of Wisconsin’s Senate announced plans to introduce a medical marijuana legalization bill, which is even more promising that Wisconsin will join the green side this year.
Virginia
In 2021, Virginia legalized the possession and home cultivation of cannabis for adults aged 21 and over. However, the establishment of a regulated retail market has faced challenges. In March 2024, Governor Glenn Youngkin vetoed legislation that would have created a framework for retail cannabis sales, citing concerns over health and safety.
Despite this setback, Democratic lawmakers, including Delegate Paul Krizek and Senator Aaron Rouse have another plan. They hope to reintroduce bills in the 2025 General Assembly session with the goal of persuading Governor Youngkin and establishing a legal retail cannabis marketplace.
New Hampshire
New Hampshire remains the only state in New England that has not legalized cannabis for adult use. Though a bill passed the House in 2024, it was not signed by then-Governor Chris Sununu, so legalization has yet to happen.
In the 2025 legislative session, which began on January 7, three new legalization bills have been introduced. The House is expected to pass at least one of these bills; however, current Governor Kelly Ayotte has expressed opposition to legalization. Advocates are encouraged to contact their state senators to express support for these measures.
Blazing a Trail: Follow the Latest in Cannabis Policy
As 2025 unfolds, it’s clear that while federal cannabis policy remains frustratingly stagnant, state-level initiatives continue to drive progress. Localized efforts prove the resilience and determination of advocates who refuse to let outdated federal attitudes define the future of cannabis in the US.
Keep an eye on the PufCreativ blog to stay up to date on these developments! Even in the face of adversity, progress continues to cultivate.
