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Marihuana tax act of 1937
This effectively criminalized marijuana, restricting possession of the drug to individuals who paid an excise tax for certain authorized medical and industrial uses. This was brought about because of the fear of marijuana that was in people's heads back in the 1930's. This is important because it was the start of putting people in trouble for marijuana. -
The war on drugs
Bush declares a war on drugs on national television. George W. Bush arrived in the White House as the drug war was running out of steam yet he allocated more money than ever to it. This is significant because it is the start of legalizing marijuana and making businesses out of it. -
Medical use legalized in California
California was the first state to establish a medical marijuana system. This is significant as it reduces the charge of possession of marijuana up to one ounce making it like a traffic violation. This is where the U.S. will start to realize what a good industry marijuana is as they estimate that it may make 1.3 billion in revenue. This law stands in tension with federal laws prohibiting possession of marijuana. -
Colorado amendment 64
Now enacted as Article 18, section 16 of the state constitution, the law addresses "personal use and regulation of marijuana" for adults 21 and over, as well as commercial cultivation, manufacture, and sale, effectively regulating cannabis in a manner similar to alcohol. This will be a major change for the business of pot in the US as it will be the first state to fully have legalized commercial use of marijuana. -
Legalization of cannabis in Alaska
This will allow adults 21 years of age and older who live in Alaska to possess up to one ounce of marijuana and grow up to six plants in a private, secure location. Beginning in 2016, marijuana will be cultivated, tested, and sold by licensed, taxpaying businesses that require proof of age. This is the 3rd and most recent state to have legalized recreational use of marijuana .
