Politics

Indiana’s Cannabis Policy May Be Getting an Upgrade

Published on January 15, 2015 · Last updated July 28, 2020

Indiana, notorious for having one of the strictest cannabis policies in the nation (the penalty for even a small amount of cannabis is punishable by up to a year of incarceration or a $5,000 fine – OUCH), is now facing a refreshing potential change of policy. Indiana Senate Bill 284 would legalize the production of hemp and cannabis by local Indiana farmers and create a medical marijuana system, as well as “DOME – the Department of Marijuana Enforcement.”

The bill, introduced by Senator Karen Tallian, is impressively comprehensive and also includes stipulations for future research development to be overseen by DOME into the benefits of marijuana for medicinal purposes.

Despite Indiana’s harsh stance on cannabis use, according to a 2013 survey by the Bowen Center, more than 50% of Hoosiers support decriminalizing the possession of small amounts of cannabis, with that percentage rising to an astonishing 78% when asked if Indiana should tax the sale of cannabis like cigarettes, with universal support from both political parties.

This bill could prove to be a tipping point for Indiana’s cannabis policy, and the revenue for farmers could make for a new up-and-coming cash crop. Cross your fingers for Indiana!

Image credit: freestock.ca

Shop highly rated stores near you

Showing you stores near
See all stores
Lisa Rough
Lisa Rough
Lisa is a former associate editor at Leafly, where she specialized in legislative cannabis policy and industry topics.
View Lisa Rough's articles
Get good reads, local deals, and strain spotlights delivered right to your inbox.

By providing us with your email address, you agree to Leafly's Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.



Stay In Touch

Receive updates on new products, special offers, and industry news.

By providing us with your email address, you agree to Leafly's Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Leafly mobile app
Get high for less.
Download the Leafly app.
Download Leafly: Marijuana Reviews on the App Store
Download Leafly Marijuana Reviews on Google Play




The material provided on Leafly is intended for educational and informational purposes only. Leafly is not engaged in rendering medical service or advice and the information provided is not a substitute for a professional medical opinion. If you have a medical problem, please contact a qualified health professional.


© 2024 Leafly, LLC
Leafly and the Leafly logo are registered trademarks of Leafly, LLC. All Rights Reserved.