[[{“value”:”
Source: korawat thatinchan / Getty
INDIANAPOLIS – Legalizing marijuana in Indiana by 2025 appears unlikely, with Republican leaders in the House and Senate opposing the move. Justin Swanson, president of the Midwest Hemp Council, argues it’s a matter of freedom and opportunity for Hoosiers.
“We’re trying to educate legislators that this is a real opportunity for farmers here in Indiana,” Swanson said. “We are an ag state; it’s in our DNA. Rather than importing these products, we really should be exporting them.”
Marijuana is illegal in Indiana, but surrounding states have legalized it.
A 2024 survey by Ball State University found fewer than 10% of Hoosiers think pot should still be completely illegal. Thirty-two percent supported medical marijuana, while 54% favored recreational cannabis for adults.
“Both sides can find studies that back up their position, but at the end of the day, no state has gone backwards once they’ve properly regulated cannabis and ensured that adults are using it in the wellness marketplace,” Swanson said.
Swanson emphasized that cannabis isn’t a viable option for everyone, particularly individuals with addiction issues.
“The data shows that as more states properly regulate cannabis, youth consumption is going down, and I think it’s at its lowest levels in the last couple of decades,” he said. “The reality is cannabis, marijuana, and hemp products are easier to get for high schoolers and middle schoolers than alcohol. The guy behind the counter with the business license is not trying to get you hooked on something like someone selling in a parking lot.”
The Midwest Hemp Council’s 2025 Legislative Kickoff will be held at Sun King Brewing on Wednesday, Jan. 15, 2025. The organization will reveal its legislative agenda at that time.
“}]] A 2024 survey by Ball State University found fewer than 10% of Hoosiers think pot should still be completely illegal. Read More
