INDIANAPOLIS – A coalition pushing for “safe and regulated” cannabis reform published survey findings from a conservative-linked pollster in which an “overwhelming” number of Hoosiers supported legalization.
About 70% of registered voters surveyed, or 871 responses out of 1,252 Hoosiers, either strongly or somewhat supported legalization for Hoosiers over the age of 21, compared to 27% who opposed the idea. Safe and Regulated Indiana, a new Republican-backed group, released the results Monday.
“This survey confirms what we already know. Hoosiers are overwhelmingly united behind safe and regulated marijuana policy,” said Joe Elsener, spokesperson for Safe and Regulated Indiana, in a release. “Indiana voters strongly support legalization for adults 21+ and taxing and regulating marijuana just like alcohol. They want responsible legalization because they know it means safer streets, shutting down drug dealers, and keeping tax revenue here in our state.”
Lawmakers have long resisted the idea of legalizing marijuana use statewide, even with a growing bipartisan push to reconsider the drug. Gov. Eric Holcomb has pointed to the need for reform at the federal level, where it’s categorized alongside heroin and ecstasy, while Gov.-elect Mike Braun has said he supports access for medical cannabis users.
All of Indiana’s neighbors — Illinois, Michigan, Ohio — have legalized recreational marijuana for adults. Kentucky legalized medical cannabis.
View the survey and read more of the Whitney Downard story for the Indiana Capital Chronicle, here.
