Idaho Lawmakers Move to Block Citizens’ Vote on Cannabis Legalization
In a move that has sparked controversy, Idaho lawmakers have advanced a resolution aimed at preventing citizens from voting on the legalization of cannabis. The resolution, House Joint Resolution 4, would amend the state’s constitution to give the legislature sole authority to decide on the legalization of marijuana, narcotics, and other psychoactive substances.
The resolution, sponsored by Rep. Bruce Skaug, R-Nampa, passed the House with a vote of 58-10. If approved by the Senate and voters in 2026, the measure would effectively block citizen-initiated ballot measures that seek to legalize medical or adult-use cannabis.
Skaug argued that the resolution is necessary to ensure the state’s laws align with its constitution, which prioritizes the virtue and sobriety of its citizens. He also cited the state’s high rate of drug overdose deaths, although he failed to mention that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that no deaths from marijuana overdose have been reported.
Opponents of the resolution, including Rep. Ilana Rubel, D-Boise, argue that it would strip citizens of their right to decide on the issue. Rubel pointed out that a recent survey found that over two-thirds of Idaho adults support legalizing medical cannabis.
The resolution comes as a nonprofit organization, Kind Idaho, is circulating a petition to legalize adult-use cannabis via the initiative process. The petition aims to allow adults 21 and older to possess 1 ounce of cannabis or 1,000 milligrams of THC for personal use and grow up to 12 plants at home.
Paul Armentano, deputy director of the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws (NORML), criticized the resolution, saying that it is an undemocratic attempt to silence the voices of Idahoans who support cannabis legalization.
“State lawmakers are well aware that their ‘reefer madness’ views are out of step with most Idahoans,” Armentano said. “That is why they are seeking to remove voters from the equation. Whether or not one personally supports or opposes cannabis legalization, these overtly undemocratic tactics ought to be a cause of deep concern.”
