California approves recreational marijuana, what does this change?

World Today

2016 Election Marijuana Whats NextA marijuana joint is rolled Wednesday, Nov. 9, 2016, in San Francisco. Prop 64 legalizing marijuana for recreational use passed in California. The number of Americans living in states with recreational marijuana more than tripled after at least three states voted to fully legalize the drug. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez)

On Tuesday, November 8, Californians voted in favor of legalizing recreational marijuana. Voters approved Proposition 64 by a margin of 56% to 44%, making California the fifth state to legalize recreational marijuana. Massachusetts and Nevada also joined in legalizing the drug. This proposition will pave the way to the largest commercial pot market in the United States. Analysts estimate that California state taxes could generate up to $1 billion annually.

CCTV America’s Phil Lavelle reports

What does Proposition 64 entail?

The proposition is a detailed 62-pages-long measure ballot, which will take time to go into full effect. It lays out how California will regulate the industry, deal with convicts of cannabis-related crimes, and tax the growth and sale of recreational marijuana.

A 15 percent tax will apply to retail sales, whereas farmers will be taxed $9.25 for every ounce of bud sold, and $2.75 per ounce of leaves. Although it eases marijuana consumption regulations, cities and counties can ban recreational marijuana businesses.

Where is marijuana legal in the U.S.?

States where recreational marijuana is legal: Alaska, California, Colorado, Oregon, Massachusetts, Nevada, Washington.

States where medical marijuana is legal: Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Hawaii, Illinois.

Who can legally consume marijuana in California?

As of November 9, adults, 21 and older, can legally consume marijuana without having a doctor’s note for medical use, but they will not be able to to legally purchase cannabis for recreational use until January 1, 2018. However, adults can possess up to an ounce of marijuana buds, 8 grams of cannabis concentrate, or grow up to six marijuana plants.

Are there any criminal penalties that apply to marijuana under Proposition 64?

Adults carrying or possessing more than an ounce of marijuana will continue to face misdemeanor charges, a $500 fine, and they risk being in jail for up to six months.

Can you smoke marijuana in public?

Under Proposition 64, marijuana can’t be smoked in public areas, or places where tobacco smoking is prohibited. It is only legal on private property. Expect a $100 fine if you are caught smoking in public, a $250 fine if you are caught smoking in places where tobacco smoking is prohibited. It also maintains state laws against driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs (including marijuana).

Every seller must acquire a state license

Under Proposition 64, growing and selling marijuana requires state licensing for a fee that hasn’t been determined yet. A state license could be rejected if the seller has a criminal offense or a felony involving violence, drug trafficking, or selling drugs to a minor.


Kevin Sabet on marijuana legalization in California

For more on legalization of marijuana in California and the rest of the United States, CCTV America’s Rachelle Akuffo spoke with Kevin Sabet, author of “Reefer Sanity: Seven Great Myths About Marijuana.”