Georgia Voters Overwhelmingly Support Legalizing Marijuana for Recreational Use
A recent poll conducted by The Atlanta Journal-Constitution has found that a majority of Georgia voters, nearly 56%, support legalizing marijuana for recreational use. This is the highest level of support for marijuana legalization in recent years, with a significant increase from the 46% who favored it in a 2017 survey.
The growing acceptance of marijuana is attributed to the widespread availability of less-potent hemp and CBD products across the nation, as well as a stalled federal proposal to reclassify pot as a less dangerous drug. Many Georgians, like Adam Zarett, a technology manager from Atlanta, believe that the benefits of marijuana outweigh the risks. Zarett, who participated in the poll, stated that he has seen the positive effects of marijuana on individuals suffering from anxiety and cancer.
However, the majority of Georgia’s state representatives disagree with the public’s stance on marijuana legalization. The Georgia General Assembly, led by Republicans, is wary of creating a legal path for marijuana use, citing concerns about its potential impact on society. State Rep. Bill Werkheiser, a Republican from Glennville, expressed his preference for focusing on the medical side of marijuana use first.
Despite the disagreement, there is a growing divide among Georgians on the issue of marijuana legalization. Nearly three-quarters of self-described liberals support marijuana legalization, compared to 68% of moderates and 37% of conservatives. Additionally, adults aged 30-44 showed the highest level of support for marijuana legalization, at 70%, while younger adults and seniors were less likely to support it.
The poll, conducted by the University of Georgia’s School of Public and International Affairs, surveyed 1,000 registered Georgia voters between April 15-24. The margin of error is 3.1 percentage points. While the results may not translate to immediate action, they indicate a growing trend towards acceptance of marijuana legalization in Georgia.
In related news, medical marijuana bills failed to pass the General Assembly this year, but legislators are convening a study committee to evaluate recommendations for next year’s lawmaking session. The committee will consider proposals to allow liquor stores to sell THC drinks, increase the allowable THC content of medical marijuana, and regulate delta-8 THC gummies.
