Louisiana Continues Slow but Steady Cannabis Reforms
Over the years, Louisiana has made incremental progress in reforming strict cannabis laws. The state has expanded medical cannabis, decriminalized possession of up to 14 grams, and allowed expungements for low-level offenses.
In March 2024, Louisiana’s new legislature introduced several cannabis bills, with some successfully passing into law by June 2024:
- HB165 – Decriminalizes cannabis paraphernalia. Becomes law on August 1, 2024.
- HB376 & SB228 – Extend medical cannabis program until 2030. Signed into law.
- HB54 & HB707 – Proposed adult-use legalization. Both failed after legislative votes.
- HB391 – Pardon bill for misdemeanors. Vetoed by Gov. Landry.
- HB331 – Medical cannabis protection for public employees. Failed in the Senate.
Louisiana Voters Support Cannabis Legalization
Public opinion in Louisiana strongly favors legalization. A 2023 poll found that 70% of voters support adult-use cannabis, compared to just 42% in 2013.
Some Louisiana cities have already taken progressive steps:
- New Orleans decriminalized possession in 2016, later issuing 10,000 pardons.
- Shreveport and East Baton Rouge also adopted decriminalization policies.
- Statewide, possession of up to 14 grams results in a $100 fine instead of jail time.
The Economic Benefits of Legalization
A study by Vicente Law Firm estimates that legal cannabis sales in Louisiana could reach $922 million annually by the third year of implementation, generating $222 million in tax revenue. The report also estimates 435,000 adult cannabis consumers in the state.
Legalization would:
- Create thousands of jobs and small business opportunities.
- Generate millions in tax revenue for Louisiana.
- Reduce unnecessary police interactions and provide safe, tested products.
Louisiana’s Medical Cannabis Program
While Louisiana’s medical cannabis law dates back to 1978, it only became functional in 2015. The first pharmacies opened in 2018, and in 2020, the law expanded to allow smoked and vaporized cannabis.
The program is state-regulated and managed by the Department of Health. Louisiana has:
- Over 15 qualifying conditions, plus any debilitating condition with a doctor’s approval.
- Limited access, with only two authorized growers and 25-30 pharmacies expected by 2025.
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