A new poll by Research Co. reveals that 62% of Canadians continue to support the legalization of marijuana.
The poll found that only 33% of adults in Canada oppose marijuana legalization, with 5% undecided. Support for legal marijuana remains highest in Quebec (66%), Alberta (64%), and Ontario (64%). In comparison, Saskatchewan and Manitoba trail with 53% in favor. Among different ethnic backgrounds, Canadians of Indigenous and European descent are more likely to support legalization, at 75% and 67%, respectively.
The survey of 1,001 Canadians aged 18 and older also found that marijuana usage remains mixed. Over half of Canadians (52%) reported not consuming marijuana since legalization, while a third (33%) had used it before it became legal, and 14% began only afterward. Notably, among those who do consume, only 51% report buying exclusively from licensed retailers, with Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Ontario leading the provinces in licensed purchases, while British Columbia lags with 39%.
As marijuana continues to be a debated topic, 63% of Canadians endorse workplace drug testing, with higher support among older demographics. Additionally, 74% of Canadians support expungement for individuals convicted of marijuana possession without intent to traffic. This view spans political lines, with 82% of Liberal, 77% of NDP, and 75% of Conservative voters in favor.
While marijuana legalization garners wide support, Canadians remain hesitant to endorse legalizing other drugs. Small percentages favor legalization for ecstasy (15%), powder cocaine (14%), and other hard substances, maintaining a cautious stance on broader drug policy.
The poll, conducted from October 13 to October 15, 2024, has a margin of error of +/- 3.1%.
