A new survey finds that a majority of Americans believe cannabis will be legal in all 50 states within the next five years.
The MRI-Simmons 2025 National Cannabis Study provides comprehensive insights into public opinion, consumer behavior, economic impact, health perceptions, and policy attitudes, offering a clear picture of how Americans currently view cannabis and its growing role in society.
Legalization Is No Longer a Debate but a Collective Call
Support for cannabis legalization is rapidly growing across the United States.
According to the study, 62% of respondents believe marijuana should be legal nationwide, while 64% expect full legalization to occur within the next five years.
Many Americans view legalization not just as a matter of personal freedom but also as a practical solution to broader systemic challenges.
70% say legalization helps reduce illegal drug trafficking, and 63% support clearing criminal records for past marijuana-related offenses.
Notably, 52% of adults believe that people previously convicted for selling marijuana should receive priority in obtaining legal dispensary licenses as a form of restitution for past injustices.
This sentiment extends beyond social issues into the financial and political arenas.
Sixty-seven percent of respondents believe banks should be allowed to provide financial services to cannabis businesses without penalty, and 59% say they are more likely to vote for candidates who support legalization.
This indicates that cannabis has evolved from a social topic into a political issue — and even a value marker for some voters.
For advertisers and media companies, this shift also signals new opportunities to align with progressive values and connect with a politically engaged audience.
As the report highlights, cannabis is no longer just a product — it has become a platform for social change.
Cannabis: A New Engine for Economic Growth
Beyond social implications, the economic potential of cannabis legalization is undeniable.
According to the survey, 74% of U.S. adults agree that legalization is an effective way to increase tax revenue, while 73% believe dispensaries make valuable contributions to local economies.
This support goes beyond theoretical approval — 65% of respondents say they would welcome dispensaries in their own cities, and 54% are open to investing in cannabis-related businesses.
These findings show that the public is not only conceptually in favor of legalization but also ready to support the industry’s growth through practical participation.
Legalization is also expected to unlock new consumer segments.
Fifty-five percent of adults say they would try cannabis if it were legal where they live, including 39% who currently do not consume it.
This suggests a vast untapped market waiting for regulatory approval.
In addition, Americans are increasingly curious about cannabis-related experiences: 54% express interest in cannabis-friendly tourism, another 54% want to try cannabis-infused food and beverages, and 45% are intrigued by cannabis self-care products.
For brands, this growing interest presents opportunities for innovation across hospitality, wellness, and lifestyle industries.
“As cannabis becomes more mainstream, we can expect continued momentum in legalization, innovation in product development, and expansion into new consumer categories,” Emily Williams, a research manager at MRI-Simmons, said. “The data show that Americans are ready: they want legal access, economic opportunity, and health-conscious options.”
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Post time: Oct-10-2025
