How drug laws have changed since Donald Trump won election

Alongside votes for president, governor, and the legislative and executive branches, voters could also have their say onother measures affecting state constitutions.

From marijuana legalization to psychedelic decriminalization, voters had their say on a range of initiatives that could reshape the nation’s approach to drug policy. Recent polling data indicates growing support for marijuana legalization, with a majority of Americans now in favor of ending federal prohibition.

This trend extends beyond cannabis, with increasing interest in reforming laws around psychedelics and other substances. The passage of measures decriminalizing psychedelics in Oregon and Washington D.C. in previous elections paved the way for similar initiatives in other state.

California

While California didn’t vote on recreational marijuana legalization (as it’s already legal), voters passed Proposition 36. This measure allows felony charges for possessing certain drugs and increases sentences for some drug and theft crimes

Florida

Florida voters rejected Amendment 3, which would have legalized recreational marijuana for adults 21 and older. The measure failed to reach the required 60% threshold for approval, meaning it remains legal only for medical use.

Massachusetts

Voters turned down Question 4, which would have legalized natural psychedelics. The measure was rejected with 57% oppose

North Dakota

Voters rejected Measure 5, which would have legalized recreational marijuana for adults 21 and older. This marks the third time that North Dakota voters have turned down a recreational marijuana legalization initiative, following previous rejections in 2018 and 2022.

South Dakota

In South Dakota, voters rejected Initiated Measure 29, which would have legalized recreational marijuana for adults 21 and older. This marks the third time in recent years that South Dakota voters have turned down a recreational marijuana legalization initiative.