by Meagan Lavendar
Cannabis tourism is one of the fastest growing industries in the United States. According to the Washington Post, in 2014 Colorado generated $700 million from legal marijuana. This statistic not only supports the economic benefits of legal marijuana, but it also motivates other states to want a part of the industry. Alongside Colorado, Washington and Alaska have legalized marijuana use for both medical and recreational purposes. Currently, only medical use is legal in Oregon and not until July 1, 2015 will the use of recreational marijuana be legal for adults over the age of 21. These four states are amongst 23 others that approve its use for medical purposes. It is also predicted that half a dozen other states will enact similar laws in 2016.
It has taken centuries for the marijuana industry to pick up speed in the U.S., and now that it is here there are no signs of it slowing down. The market is booming, thus; the acceptance of legalization is rising across all 50 states. In the U.S., the market for legal cannibis almost doubled from the years 2013 to 2014. Courtesy of ArcView Market Research, “legal cannabis market grew from $1.5 billion in 2013 to $2.7 billion in 2014.” This market growth has captured the public’s attention and is assured to emerge as a wedge issue in the 2016 national elections.
Treatment of marijuana use varies from state to state, so it is highly recommended to be educated about each state’s laws before traveling. There is a high potential of prosecution under federal law if found with marijuana on a commercial airline. Even traveling with legal marijuana from one state to another legal state is not advised. In order to make traveling a stress-free experience it is suggested to keep and consume legal marijuana in its respective state. Until there is a shift in federal policy, this is the best principle to follow and exactly why Bud and Breakfast is so resourceful. Take advantage of the verified cannabis-friendly lodging available through the website. We can help guide you in the process of planning the ultimate, green vacation.
Sources:
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2015/01/26/marijuana-industry-fastest-growing_n_6540166.html
