Americans' Support for Legal Marijuana Reaches Unprecedented Level in New Gallup Poll

WASHINGTON, Oct. 22, 2013 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Gallup, considered to be one of the top polling firms in the United States, has determined that Americans' support for legalizing marijuana has reached 58%, growing ten points since their most recent poll on the question in 2012 and demonstrating clear majority support for ending marijuana prohibition.

"The passage of adult-use marijuana initiatives in Colorado and Washington has demonstrated widespread disillusion with marijuana prohibition," notes Aaron Smith, executive director of the National Cannabis Industry Association. "The success of regulated medical and adult-use marijuana markets in 17 states and DC is replacing criminal enterprises with legal and responsible businesses that generate millions in tax revenue and tens of thousands of good jobs. It's no surprise that 58% of Americans now support bringing this regulated approach to all 50 states." 
 
Of the 21 states plus Washington, DC that have legalized marijuana for adult or medical use, 17 plus Washington, DC have implemented regulated systems for its distribution since 2009 or are currently in the process of doing so. And in a September Senate Judiciary Committee Hearing, US Deputy District Attorney James Cole acknowledged that tightly regulated marijuana industries are likely more effective at controlling access to marijuana. 
 
"One simply needs to look to history to see that prohibition of a popular substance leads to a rise in organized crime and introduces otherwise law-abiding adults to criminal elements," Smith continued. "But in a regulated and secure marijuana industry, there is only room for responsible businesses and entrepreneurs with the highest standards for safety, quality, and accountability. Now, it's time for Congress to act on this clear public mandate by taking action to end the failed experiment of federal marijuana prohibition." 
 
The National Cannabis Industry Association (NCIA) is the largest cannabis trade association in the U.S. and the only organization representing cannabis-related businesses at the national level. NCIA promotes the growth of a responsible and legitimate cannabis industry and works toward a favorable social, economic, and legal environment for that industry in the United States.