Characteristics Associated with Attitudes toward Marijuana Legalization in Michigan

ABSTRACT

Support for legalization of marijuana has increased over the past several years. While studies have examined correlates of favoring marijuana legalization, less attention has been placed on those who are unsure about legalization, despite the potentially important role of this group as states vote on legalization in upcoming elections. Using data from a statewide sample of adults in Michigan, this study examined whether those who support, oppose, or are unsure about legalization differed based on demographics, marijuana use, and perceived risk associated with marijuana use. Those who were older and perceived marijuana use to pose a greater risk had lower odds of being unsure about legalization (relative to opposing legalization); those who were politically left of center or centrist and those who reported lifetime marijuana use had higher odds of being unsure about legalization. Older respondents, women, and those who perceived marijuana use to be risky had lower odds of supporting legalization; those who were politically left of center or centrist, and those who reported recent or lifetime marijuana use had higher odds of supporting legalization. Better understanding correlates of being unsure about marijuana legalization may help inform political and prevention efforts as states continue to vote on these issues.

KEYWORDS:

• Marijuana
• cannabis
• legalization
• perspectives

Disclosure statement

Dr. Stella Resko worked with the Michigan Prevention Association to design and distribute the survey described in this study. She does not have a financial relationship with the Michigan Prevention Association, and the Michigan Prevention Association was not involved in the writing of this manuscript.

Additional information

Funding

This project was unfunded.