Voters in five states approved six separate ballot measures legalizing the use and distribution of marijuana for either medical or adult-use purposes. Below you can find out when each ballot initiative goes into effect, with regard to new possession penalties, application and licensing processes, and other relevant dates.

For more information on these initiatives, visit NORML’s Election Central.

State Possession Licensing Other Relevant Dates
Arizona: Prop 207  Effective immediately after voter-approved initiative is certified  Application for Marijuana Establishment Licensing 
starts January 19, 2021 through March 9, 2021, will issue licenses no later than 60 after application submitted
Expungement: Individuals can petition courts starting July 12, 2021
Montana: I-190   Personal use, possession, and cultivation of marijuana January 01, 2021   Begin accepting applications by October 01, 2021  
South Dakota: Amendment A  July 1, 2021 No later than April 1, 2022   
Mississippi: Initiative 65   The department shall adopt rules and regulations no later than July 1, 2021  Begin issuing ID cards and dispensary licenses by August 15, 2021  
South Dakota: Measure 26  July 1, 2021 July 1, 2021
New Jersey: Question 1 January 1, 2021  January 1, 2021  
   
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