(Harrisburg, Pa., Sept. 25) — Responsible PA today released independent polling showing enormous support for the legalization of adult-use cannabis in the state. And, the polls suggest voters want it now.

The poll, conducted by Change Research shows majority support for the proposal in every county polled, across demographics and party registration. The polling looked at competitive PA House districts that have elected members of both parties and are considered “toss-ups” in the 2024 cycle. 

More than 60 percent of voters in each political toss-up district (HD16, HD72, HD118, HD144, and HD151) favor regulated cannabis sales, demonstrating widespread public approval for legalization as a way to stimulate economic growth, create jobs, and reduce the reliance on illegal markets.

Furthermore, the 2024 elections in Pennsylvania’s House districts are shaping up to be closely contested, with cannabis legalization emerging as a key issue that could tip the scales. Voters across the political spectrum favor regulated cannabis for its economic benefits and potential to advance criminal justice reform. As Pennsylvania approaches this pivotal legislative session, the message from voters is clear: It’s time for action on cannabis legalization.

Said Responsible PA spokesperson Brittany Crampsie:

“Public support for legalization of adult-use cannabis isn’t partisan and it’s not regional. Our polling has shown that Pennsylvanians statewide are ready for the legislature to act this fall. Other states have safely, seamlessly legalized cannabis and seen enormous fiscal benefits. We’ve seen studies of the financial benefit this state can expect including thousands of new jobs and millions in new revenue. As lawmakers stare down re-election campaigns and a dwindling budget surplus, it has never been a better time to adopt a popular, fiscally responsible program. The General Assembly returns to Harrisburg within days and Pennsylvanians demand legislative action to legalize adult-use cannabis now,” said Responsible PA spokesperson Brittany Crampsie. 

TOPLINE FINDINGS

  • HD16 (Beaver County): 72% support legalization, with 43% expressing strong support. 
  • HD72 (Cambria County): 64% support legalization
  • HD118 (Luzerne and Lackawanna Counties): 65% support legalization, with 40% expressing strong support. 
  • HD144 (Bucks County): 64% support legalization, with 39% expressing strong support. 
  • HD151 (Montgomery County): 72% support legalization, with 38% expressing strong support. 

OTHER FINDINGS

Economic and Criminal Justice Motivations Drive Support

Voters highlight three main reasons for supporting cannabis legalization: public safety, economic benefits, and criminal justice reform. The poll suggests that Pennsylvania voters view cannabis as a way to generate revenue, improve safety, and address injustices.

  • Voters in all five districts recognize the potential for cannabis legalization to stimulate the state’s economy by creating jobs and generating substantial tax revenue.
  • In HD151, 74% of voters believe legalization will boost the economy by creating jobs. 
  • This view is shared in HD118 (72%), HD144 (71%), HD72 (66%), and HD16 (73%).

Travel to Dispensaries in Neighboring States

  • A significant minority of voters across the five districts report traveling to neighboring states to purchase cannabis due to Pennsylvania’s lack of legalization. These numbers highlight Pennsylvania’s unmet demand for legal cannabis and the associated economic drain to nearby states.

Presidential and State House Support by District

  • The poll also measured voter preferences in the upcoming presidential and state house races, offering insights into how cannabis policy could impact electoral outcomes.

The Impact of Cannabis Policy on Election Choices

  • Cannabis policy could play a critical role in election outcomes. Voters weigh a legislator’s stance on cannabis legalization heavily, but they also tend to consider it alongside other factors and issues.

Voters Want Swift Action on Legalization

  • Voters across the five Pennsylvania districts show a strong preference for immediate legislative action on cannabis legalization. While levels of enthusiasm differ slightly, a significant number in all five believe that now is the time to move forward with legalization.

ResponsiblePA also released an economic study conducted by the national consulting firm FTI Consulting, showcasing an addition of $2.1 billion in tax revenue as a result of an adult-use market in Pennsylvania in year one. This economic forecast also predicts the creation of more than 30,000 jobs in a year, an additional $4.2 billion in economic output, $2.6 billion in state GDP for the state, and $420 million in recurring tax revenue.

A bipartisan proposal – House Bill 2500 – was recently introduced to legalize adult-use cannabis in Pennsylvania. Both chambers of Pennsylvania’s legislature return next week to the state Capitol.