As the national conversation around cannabis reform continues to evolve, proponents in several states are working to put marijuana-related initiatives before voters in the November 2026 elections.
Among these are Florida, Idaho, and Oklahoma, where advocacy groups are actively working to qualify measures for next year’s ballot. These initiatives would legalize or decriminalize cannabis, reflecting a growing trend toward reevaluating marijuana laws across the United States.
Florida
In Florida, the group Smart & Safe Florida is spearheading a renewed campaign to legalize recreational marijuana for individuals aged 21 and over. This follows a 2024 initiative that garnered 56% voter support but fell short of the 60% supermajority required for constitutional amendments in the state. Undeterred, the organization has launched a new petition drive, with over 150,000 signatures already collected and $20 million in donations received so far this year.
The proposed constitutional amendment would allow for the possession and use of marijuana and marijuana products like edibles and tinctures, while establishing a system of licensed, regulated, and taxed cannabis retail outlets, with dispensaries able to convert to a dual-model allowing them to sell to both medical and recreational consumers.
Idaho
Idaho presents a unique scenario, with two contrasting measures potentially appearing on the 2026 ballot. One is a citizen-led initiative aiming to decriminalize the use, possession, and cultivation of cannabis for those 21 and older. This measure would mark a significant shift in a state known for its stringent marijuana laws.
Simultaneously, the Idaho Legislature has given approval to House Joint Resolution 4, a proposed constitutional amendment that would restrict the legalization of marijuana exclusively to legislative action, effectively barring future citizen initiatives on the matter. The measure will appear on the November 2026 ballot.
Oklahoma
In Oklahoma, the advocacy group Oklahomans for Responsible Cannabis Action (ORCA) has filed a proposed constitutional amendment, known as State Question 837, to legalize recreational marijuana for adults 21 and older. The initiative would permit adults to possess up to eight ounces of cannabis flower and one ounce of concentrate, as well as cultivate up to 12 plants for personal use. The measure also outlines a taxation framework, imposing a 10% excise tax on non-medical marijuana sales, with revenues allocated to various state and local programs. To qualify for the ballot, ORCA must collect over 172,000 valid signatures by July 2025.
West Virginia
In West Virginia, lawmakers are considering a legislative approach to cannabis legalization through House Joint Resolution 27, introduced in February. This resolution proposes a constitutional amendment to be placed on the 2026 general election ballot, aiming to legalize the possession of up to two ounces of cannabis and the personal cultivation of up to four plants for adults aged 21 and over. It also empowers the Legislature to enact laws governing the lawful sale and manufacture of cannabis within the state.
Additionally, HJR 27 includes provisions for individuals with prior convictions for possessing two ounces or less of cannabis to petition for dismissal or expungement of their records through the circuit court in the county where the conviction occurred.
As of now, the resolution is pending review in the House Judiciary Committee, with proponents hopeful that lawmakers who remain on the line about legalization will support this proposal, given it puts the issue in the hands of voters.
Oregon
A proposed initiative in Oregon would legalize cannabis cafes, allowing licensed venues to serve food and drinks while permitting on-site marijuana consumption. Backed by the Oregon Cannabis Cafe Coalition, the initiative seeks to amend existing state law to introduce regulated smoking lounges and, eventually, cafes offering infused edibles. The group is working to gather the necessary signatures to place the measure on the November 2026 ballot.
