The 5 States with the Most Progressive Marijuana Policies

As of May 2024, 24 states have legalized recreational marijuana, with some implementing policies that are significantly more progressive than others.

Among these states, the majority —15 out of 24— have established a one-ounce limit for dried marijuana, and a marijuana cultivation limit of three to six plants. However, several states have set notably higher limits.

With that in mind, here are the top five states with the most progressive marijuana policies (in no particular order). All of them have possession limits that are at least twice that of the 15 states with a one ounce limit.

  • Maine

    • Possession Limit: 2.5 oz
    • Home Grow: Up to 3 flowering plants
  • Michigan

    • Possession Limit: 2.5 oz
    • Home Grow: Up to 12 plants
  • Missouri

    • Possession Limit: 3 oz
    • Home Grow: With cultivation license
  • New York

    • Possession Limit: 3 oz
    • Home Grow: Up to 6 plants
  • Ohio

    • Possession Limit: 2.5 oz
    • Home Grow: Up to 6 plants

Honorable Mentions:

  • New Mexico (2021)
    • Possession Limit: 2 oz
    • Home Grow: Up to 6 mature plants
  • Minnesota (2023)
    • Possession Limit: 2 oz
    • Home Grow: Yes, up to 8 plants

For a full breakdown of the 24 legal marijuana states, click here. For a look at the three states on track to legalize marijuana within the next six months, click here.

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