A recent survey conducted by the Department of Cannabis Control (DCC) reveals that most Californians are in favor of legalizing cannabis and buying from licensed retailers. The survey also indicates that there is room for improvement in educating consumers about cannabis laws and regulations.
Proposition 64 Has a positive impact, According to Majority of Respondents
The survey, which was part of the DCC’s Real California Cannabis campaign, interviewed over 1,000 California adults in both English and Spanish. The results showed that 62% of Californians believe that Proposition 64, the voter initiative that legalized recreational cannabis in 2016, has had a positive impact on the state. This is an increase from the 57% voter support that the initiative received when it was passed.
Proposition 64 allows adults 21 and older to possess up to one ounce of cannabis and grow up to six plants for personal use. It also establishes a legal and regulated cannabis market, with taxes and fees that fund various programs and services related to public health, safety, education, and environmental protection.
Californians Believe in Supporting Legal Cannabis Market and Verifying Licenses
Another key finding from the survey was that 86% of Californian adults believe that it is important to purchase cannabis from the legal market, while 72% said they believe consumers have a responsibility to verify they are purchasing cannabis from licensed retailers. These attitudes reflect the benefits of supporting the legal cannabis industry, which include ensuring product quality and safety, creating jobs and revenue, and reducing the harms of the illegal market.
The DCC, which is the state agency that licenses and regulates commercial cannabis activity, has launched the Real California Cannabis campaign to help consumers easily find and verify licensed dispensaries in the state. The campaign provides information and resources on how to identify the differences between licensed and unlicensed cannabis retailers and how to report illegal or unlicensed activity.
Education Gaps Remain Among Cannabis Consumers
Despite the positive views on cannabis legalization and the legal market, the survey also revealed that many Californians are confused about cannabis laws and regulations. For example, 85% of the people surveyed living in areas where retail cannabis is not allowed either incorrectly thought cannabis retail was allowed in their area or had no idea about the local laws.
Additionally, 44% of respondents said it was easy to identify if a retailer was licensed, while 42% said it was difficult to tell if a retailer was licensed or unlicensed. This suggests that there is a need for more education and awareness among cannabis consumers about how to distinguish between legal and illegal sources of cannabis and how to access the DCC’s online license verification tool.
Conclusion
The survey results indicate that Californians are supportive of cannabis legalization and the legal market but also need more information and guidance on how to shop legally and responsibly. The DCC’s Real California Cannabis campaign aims to address these needs and promote a safe and equitable cannabis industry in the state.