“High Alert! NM Sets Cannabis Sales Record, AL Stops Medical Rollout

Cannabis continues to gain traction with legalization and acceptance by governments around the world. The United States is no different and even states like New Mexico and Alabama are making strides to facilitate the sale of cannabis. In New Mexico, the market expanded in October 2020, with record sales figures of $43.5 million in recreational and medical marijuana. This surpassed the previous record of $32.7 million which was set in August 2020. The milestone is significant for the state, as it is one of only four states in the country to have legalized recreational marijuana. In Alabama, on the other hand, plans to implement a medical marijuana program hit a roadblock as the state government halted the roll out of regulations that would have allowed for patient access. This is due to legal uncertainties surrounding the legalization of medical marijuana, as the state has yet to pass legislation to make the practice official. Nationally, the US is seeing a surge in interest, with legislation being introduced in nine states aimed at legalizing recreational marijuana. This provides an optimistic outlook for the coming year and with rising support from citizens and elected officials. More states may soon be joining New Mexico and 8 others in allowing the sale and use of recreational marijuana. Overall, the near future looks promising for cannabis users in the US. While some states have advanced legislation and markets, others face a few obstacles, with Alabama being the latest example. Nonetheless, the legalization of recreational or medical marijuana is an inevitability and in time, more states may join the move.