Is Louisiana On The Verge Of Making Marijuana Legal?

Louisiana's strict views on the prohibited usage of marijuana have weakened over the past five years, but some are afraid they might not have weakened enough.

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Once completely taboo, Louisiana first allowed the medical usage of CNB products which ultimately paved the way for true THC products and then the medical usage of actual marijuana.

Very few can present a compelling argument against the medical benefits of the product, however it's recreational use is still illegal in the Bayou State.

But now, the door for that possible usage has again been opened.

Theadvertiser.com yesterday reported that New Orleans State Representative Candace Newell has filed two separate bills with the Louisiana State House of Representatives that could legalize cannabis in Louisiana.

Those bills are House Bill 24 which would legalize the recreational usage of marijuana by adults 21 and older and House Bill 17 that would provide Louisiana the legal ability and obligation to regulate that marijuana usage.

Of course, this isn't the first time Louisiana lawmakers have seen this issue on the agenda; it's not even the first time Newell has presented it.  All previous efforts proved to be fruitless, including the attempt in 2021 by Newell and Representative Richard Nelson.

It would appear this effort could come up short as well.  As theadvertiser.com put it,

....legalization remains a long shot in the upcoming Regular Session that begins April 10, where the Republican-controlled Legislature is unlikely to risk making such a bold move during an election year.

Most people agree that legalization someday is inevitable, but we're not there now," said Republican Speaker Pro-tem Tanner Magee of Houma, who ushered in legislation to expand the medical program last year. "There's too much pushback."

Newell conceded the pushback, but is determined to move forward and hopes for discussion on how to move forward with the idea in the coming future.