Activists Push for Marijuana Decriminalization in States

Supporters of legalizing recreational cannabis in North Dakota have submitted over 22,000 signatures, exceeding the 15,582 required, to get the initiative on the November ballot. This would be the third attempt to legalize recreational marijuana in the state, following failed measures in 2018 and 2022. The proposal allows adults 21 and older to possess limited amounts of cannabis and grow up to three plants. Concurrently, in Texas, Democrat Desiree Venable has gathered 600 signatures to decriminalize marijuana in Bastrop, directing police to deprioritize misdemeanor marijuana offenses. Additionally, in Arkansas, activists have submitted over 111,000 signatures to expand medical marijuana access, aiming to include more medical professionals and conditions eligible for cannabis prescriptions. The Arkansas initiative also proposes extending the validity of medical cannabis cards from one to three years and includes provisions for non-resident patients.