Honestly, if you looked at a map of the U.S. ten years ago, the "green wave" looked more like a few scattered puddles. Now? It’s a flood. But as we crawl into 2026, the vibe has shifted. We aren't just seeing a race to the finish line anymore. Instead, it’s a weird, messy mix of states doubling down, others getting cold feet, and a few "holdouts" finally cracking the door open.
People keep asking which are the next states to legalize marijuanas, expecting a simple list. It’s never that simple.
Politics in places like Florida or New Hampshire doesn't move in a straight line. It loops. It stalls. Sometimes it even goes backward. If you’re trying to keep track of where you can legally buy a pre-roll without looking over your shoulder, you’ve got to look at the ballot initiatives and the messy legislative brawls happening right now.
Florida: The $200 Million Rematch
Florida is basically the heavyweight title fight of the cannabis world right now. You might remember the 2024 drama. Amendment 3 got a majority of the votes—around 56%—but in Florida, you need 60% to change the constitution. Most states would kill for 56%, but in the Sunshine State, that’s just a "close but no cigar" situation.
So, what’s happening for 2026?
The heavy hitters, specifically Trulieve, haven’t packed up and gone home. They’ve already poured over $190 million into this effort over the last couple of cycles. As of January 2026, the signature count is hovering around 675,000. They need about 880,062 by the February 1st deadline to get back on the ballot. It’s a tight window.
Interestingly, a recent poll from the Florida Chamber of Commerce suggests support might be dipping—hitting around 51%. Is it voter fatigue? Or maybe the aggressive anti-pot campaigns from the Governor's office are finally sticking? Either way, Florida is the one to watch because if it flips, the entire Southeast landscape changes overnight.
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New Hampshire: The "Live Free or Die" Paradox
It’s kind of ironic, isn't it? New Hampshire is surrounded by legal states. Massachusetts, Vermont, Maine—they’ve all gone green. Yet, the "Live Free or Die" state remains a stubborn island of prohibition in New England.
But 2026 feels... different.
On the very first day of the 2026 session, the NH House passed HB 186 with a solid 208-135 vote. This bill would let adults have up to 2 ounces and sets up a state-licensed retail system. There’s also HB 1235, which is a bit "lighter"—it legalizes possession but doesn't bother with the stores. Basically, "you can have it, but we won't help you buy it."
The problem? The Senate. The NH Senate has been the graveyard for legalization bills for years. Plus, Governor Kelly Ayotte has been pretty clear about her opposition. Even with 70% of residents telling pollsters they want it legal, the political gears are grinding slow. It’s a classic case of the people vs. the podium.
Nebraska and the Great Plains Shift
Nebraska is in a weird spot. In late 2024, voters actually approved medical marijuana (Initiatives 437 and 438). You’d think that’s a done deal, right? Nope.
The state is currently locked in a legal cage match. The Attorney General and some former lawmakers are trying to toss the results. Meanwhile, activists are already looking past the medical fight toward full recreational use. A new constitutional amendment for 2026 has been filed by Bill Hawkins. It wants to give everyone 21+ the "right to use all plants in the genus Cannabis."
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It’s bold. It’s also facing an uphill climb in a state where the "single-subject rule" is used like a scythe to cut down ballot measures.
South Dakota: Third Time’s a Charm?
South Dakota is the only state to ever vote for legalization, have it struck down by a court, vote on it again, lose, and then look at a third try. It’s exhausting just writing that.
After Measure 29 failed in 2024 (getting only 44% of the vote), the advocates at South Dakotans for Better Marijuana Laws aren't giving up. They’re looking at 2026. The logic is that presidential election years bring out a different crowd than midterms or off-years. But let’s be real: the opposition here is organized and well-funded.
The "Reverse" Movement: A New Trend?
Here’s something nobody saw coming a few years ago: some states are trying to go backward.
In Massachusetts and Maine, there are actually potential initiatives for 2026 that want to repeal or severely limit recreational sales. In Massachusetts, a proposal aims to nix the retail market entirely while keeping small-scale possession legal.
It’s a "Not In My Backyard" (NIMBY) reaction to the sheer number of dispensaries popping up. While these are unlikely to pass, the fact that they are even getting signatures tells you the honeymoon phase of legalization might be over in some parts of the country.
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Idaho’s "Fortress" Strategy
While other states are debating how to sell it, Idaho is trying to make sure they never sell it.
There is a measure on the 2026 ballot called HJR 4. If passed, it would amend the state constitution to say that only the legislature has the power to legalize psychoactive substances. Translation: it would kill the ability for citizens to put marijuana on the ballot themselves.
It’s a preemptive strike. Pro-legalization groups are still trying to gather signatures for medical and recreational initiatives, but if HJR 4 passes, their path becomes a brick wall.
What This Means for You
If you’re living in one of these states, the "next states to legalize marijuanas" conversation isn't just about policy—it's about how you live your life.
- Check your registration. In states like Florida and Nebraska, your vote literally determines the constitution.
- Know the local limits. Even in "decriminalized" states like New Hampshire, you can still get hit with heavy fines if you're carrying more than the allowed amount (currently 3/4 of an ounce there).
- Watch the courts. As we saw in Nebraska and South Dakota, winning at the ballot box is only half the battle. The legal challenges afterward are where the real "legalization" happens.
The map is definitely turning greener, but the shade of green depends entirely on which side of the state line you're standing on.
To stay ahead of the changes in your area, you should look up the specific "Notice of Intent" filings in your state’s Secretary of State office. This gives you the earliest possible look at what might be on your 2026 ballot before it even hits the news cycle. Also, keep an eye on the "Schedule III" federal rescheduling process; while it won't make weed "legal" everywhere, it will fundamentally change how medical programs in states like Nebraska operate.