It used to be that the 420 friendly lifestyle was taboo. People talked about it in hushed tones and referred to users as lazy, unproductive couch potatoes who had no job and no motivation to do anything. There was a misconception that all cannabis enthusiasts wore tie-dyed shirts and hemp everything. As more states across the country begin to legalize cannabis for medical and recreational use, the 420 friendly lifestyle is gaining momentum.
A New Generation of Consumers
One of the biggest influences in the changing views on cannabis is the fact that there’s a whole new generation of consumers out there. Younger adults are more technologically-savvy. They can look up reputable sources in a matter of minutes to find information on current research, benefits, potential risks, and more. They’re also more open to trying alternative treatments, especially with all of the information out there regarding the negative side effects of more conventional medications.
Another factor influencing the more widespread acceptance of the 420-lifestyle is that more people are saying they think cannabis should be legal everywhere. The research is out there. While it’s still fairly new, studies are showing that the plant provides all manner of incredible benefits such as pain relief, alleviation of anxiety symptoms, improved sleep, and more.
More States Legalize Cannabis
While cannabis remains illegal on the federal level, more states across the country are legalizing it. In the 1990s and early 2000s, some states began to legalize it for medical use only. In 2012, Colorado and Washington became the first states to legalize it for recreational use. Following the passage of the 2018 Farm Bill, legalization really began to take off.
The most recent wins for cannabis legalization came during the 2020 election. Arizona, Montana, New Jersey, and South Dakota all passed their recreational use measures. South Dakota also passed a medical use measure, as did Mississippi.
The Potential for Federal Legalization
Over the years, the idea of removing cannabis from the federally controlled substances list has come up in government, but bills never made it very far. This year, the House was set to vote on a measure in September, but that vote was rescheduled for December. There’s also been talk of passing the SAFE Banking Act and eliminating IRS tax code 280E. The fact that these issues are getting attention shows that there’s a more widespread acceptance of cannabis.
A Vast Array of 420 friendly Products
The number of cannabis products on the market has exploded. It’s no longer joints and infused brownies. Now, you’ll find all manner of vaping devices (tabletop vaporizers to portable vape pens), edibles, concentrates, tinctures, and so much more. There’s something out there for everyone, whether you enjoy rolling a classic joint or prefer more discreet methods of use.
The edibles market alone has expanded significantly, and it no longer includes food. Now, you’ll find cannabis-infused coffee pods, tea, sparkling waters, juices, and even non-alcoholic beer and wine.
Indeed, the 420 friendly lifestyle has picked up momentum and is continuing to become more mainstream. While there will always be some who don’t necessarily agree with its use, people are beginning to see, understand, and experience the benefits.
