Is Legal Marijuana Here To Stay?

With several states opening medical marijuana dispensaries and both Colorado and Washington paving the way for the legal sale of recreational pot, many investors see the U.S. prohibition on marijuana being completely abandoned within the next 10 years.

Legal Pot Spreading

Oregon looks set to become the next state with recreational sales outlets; voters there approved the use of recreational marijuana in 2014 and growers are already starting to expand their operations by snapping up land and warehouse space in anticipation of a flood of new business.

In Ohio, licensed stores could pop up in a little over a year if a bill to legalize the drug is passed.

Related Link: 15 Marijuana Stocks To Watch In 2015

Some States Hold Off

The push to expand the marijuana market to all 50 states isn’t without opposition. Several states, like Michigan, are still pushing back against allowing medical dispensaries. Those opposed to widespread marijuana sales say they are worried about increased crime rates and stores selling to minors.

Colorado Leads The Pack

Colorado, however, stands as a shining example that legalizing marijuana could do more good than harm. One year after legalizing the sale of recreational marijuana, Colorado police officials have reported no uptick in criminal behavior and the growing industry has flooded the state with new job opportunities.

Colorado’s success is a good indication that legalizing marijuana is a trend that is likely to eventually spread and give rise to an entirely new industry. While current laws prohibit the transport of marijuana across state lines, many see those regulations also loosening to allow growers and retailers to expand into larger brands that reach across the entire United States.