Utah, home of the Mormon church headquarters, generally has lower liquor and tobacco sales compared to other states, with Utah collecting the lowest per-capita alcohol taxes in the nation, and having strict regulations on alcohol and tobacco sales. This clearly shows their beliefs have become somewhat off a cultural norm. Currently, the church’s current stance on medical marijuana is it does not oppose medical marijuana when used as prescribed by a competent physician. This includes vaping marijuana when authorized based on medical necessity. But, the church continues to strongly oppose recreational marijuana use.
Additionally, the church advises caution, comparing marijuana to opioids and other addictive substances that should be avoided except under proper medical care.
In Utah, the church initially opposed a broad medical marijuana ballot initiative in 2018. But as cannabis was proven to have medical benefits, they facilitated negotiations between lawmakers, advocates, and other stakeholders to create a restrictive medical marijuana law. The resulting program includes limitations such as prohibiting smoking of marijuana flower (only vaporization is allowed), lower purchase limits, and requiring a pharmacist at every dispensary.
The Fresh Toast – We know where they stand on coffee and Coca-Cola, but what about Mormons and marijuana, especially medical? Read More
