While Americans across the country were glued to their TVs throughout the day, it’s noteworthy to mention that aside from the Presidential election, it was a big day in America for the legalization of marijuana. In fact, voters in five states approved new measures to legalize medical or recreational marijuana. Here’s a quick rundown of ballot measures that passed:

Arizona
While an earlier legalization measure failed in 2016, voters this time around passed Prop 207—the Smart and Safe Arizona Act (SSAA). This new legislation will permit possession (up to one ounce) and use of marijuana for adults ages 21+, and will permit individuals to grow up to six marijuana plants in their primary residence.

Mississippi
Nearly 70% of voters supported Mississippi Ballot Measure 1, legislation permitting doctors within the state to prescribe medical marijuana for patients with at least one of nearly two dozen qualifying conditions such as cancer, PTSD, HIV, and many more.

Montana
Voters passed Initiative 190 and Initiative 118, which together legalize the consumption, possession, and purchase of marijuana for adults ages 21+. This legislation also provides an opportunity for people serving marijuana-related sentences—which are no longer considered crimes under these Initiatives—to request resentencing or that their convictions be expunged.

New Jersey
A majority of New Jersey voters supported legalization, by a roughly 2-to-1 margin, to pass Public Question No. 1. This legislation will legalize the use and possession of marijuana for adults ages 21+, and will also legalize the cultivation, processing, and sale of marijuana. Keep an eye out for neighboring states to consider and introduce future legislation measures to capitalize on this area’s tax revenue potential.

South Dakota
Voters overwhelmingly passed Constitutional Amendment A and Measure 26, making it the first state to legalize marijuana for both recreational and medical use on the same ballot. Legislation legalizes recreational marijuana use, possession, and distribution of up to one ounce for adults ages 21+. Additionally, this allows for a medical marijuana program to support patients with a chronic or debilitating disease or medical condition.

Oregon
Additionally, it’s worth reporting that Oregon voters passed Measure 110, which decriminalizes possession of small amounts of drugs such as heroin, cocaine and methamphetamine—making them no longer punishable by jail time, but instead amounting to something along the lines of a traffic ticket. It also evolves addiction assistance and health services, offering critical help instead of a jail sentence.

Please keep in mind that in spite of evolving legislation, employers still have a right to maintain a drug-free workplace and/or maintain workplace policies that address drug and alcohol use among employees or applicants. We’re happy to answer any substance abuse screening questions you may have, help you implement a drug screening program that meets your evolving needs, or make adjustments to the program you’re already running with us.