SALT LAKE CITY, Utah — A new poll reveals that a slight majority of Utah residents support legalizing recreational marijuana, but state leaders say such a move is unlikely.
Currently, Utah permits medical marijuana use, but recreational cannabis remains illegal. According to a recent survey conducted by Noble Predictive Insights and commissioned by the nonprofit Keep Utah Medical, 52% of respondents favor legalizing recreational marijuana, while 38% oppose it and 9% remain undecided.
Despite the poll’s findings, House Speaker Mike Schultz (R-Hooper) dismissed the idea that Utah would change its laws anytime soon.
“I have a huge problem with turning Utah into a recreational state,” Schultz said. “It’s not going to happen.”
Survey Highlights Division Along Political Lines
The survey found that support for legalizing recreational marijuana varies significantly by political affiliation. Among Democrats, 76% are in favor, and 61% of independents also support legalization. However, Republicans remain divided, with 51% against the idea and 41% in support.
The analysis accompanying the poll suggests that while there is enough backing for a potential ballot initiative to pass, it would likely face resistance from conservative leaders and advocacy groups.
“In Utah, the right is far better organized than the left,” the report stated, noting that if legalization efforts gained momentum, opposition could mobilize quickly to counteract the push.
Challenges with Utah’s Medical Marijuana System
Alex Iorg, co-founder of Keep Utah Medical, emphasized that his organization is not advocating for a recreational use initiative but instead aims to improve Utah’s existing medical marijuana program.
“We’re trying to save Utah’s medical program,” Iorg explained, arguing that many patients find it difficult to access medical cannabis legally. “I believe the majority now support recreational use because they see it as an easier option than Utah’s current medical program.”
Iorg pointed out that 60% of Utahns who use marijuana for medical reasons are still obtaining it illegally, suggesting that the state’s regulations are too restrictive. He also highlighted disparities between Utah’s medical marijuana dispensaries and out-of-state recreational cannabis businesses, saying the latter have greater advertising freedoms.
Recent Adjustments to Medical Cannabis Laws
During the latest legislative session, Utah lawmakers made some changes to the state’s medical marijuana policies. These adjustments included expanding the number of doctors authorized to prescribe cannabis, setting a cap on new licenses issued by the Utah Department of Agriculture and Food (UDAF), and regulating hemp-derived THC products sold in gas stations.
Still, Iorg believes more reforms are necessary, particularly to improve access for rural and disabled patients through telemedicine options.
Polling Details
The survey was conducted between March 11 and 13, gathering responses from 609 registered Utah voters. It had a margin of error of 3.97% and was conducted using text-to-online and online opt-in methods. Participants were asked whether they would support or oppose a ballot initiative legalizing marijuana for both medical and recreational use.
The results suggest that while a legalization effort could find success by combining support from Democrats, independents, and some Republicans, opposition from conservative groups remains a formidable obstacle .
- 25% Auto Tariff: Trump’s Plan to Raise $100 Billion in Tax Revenue - March 27, 2025
- Gov. Cox Approves Landmark Bill to Ban VR Sexual Exploitation of Minors - March 27, 2025
- Robbery Suspect Arrested After Stealing Condoms, Threatening Cashier - March 27, 2025
