In a new Gallup poll published Tuesday, seventy percent (70%) of Americans find "smoking marijuana" to be 'morally acceptable'. The latest finding represents a +5 point increase compared to last year's survey, reflecting a more informed population as to the pros and cons of marijuana use, particularly for Health and Wellness.
As the survey noted, consuming marijuana is now more 'morally acceptable' than having children out of wedlock (66%), abortion (44%) or pornography (36%). On the flip side, Americans find alcohol consumption (86%), divorce (77%) and gambling (71%) more acceptable than marijuana.
The Gallup poll asked 1,028 Americans in all 50 states and the nation’s capital whether they deemed 21 different behaviors or policies, from using birth control to the death penalty, moral or not.
The National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws (NORML) was quick to weigh-in.
“Public opinion continues to drastically evolve in favor of marijuana’s legal and cultural status and it is time that the federal laws evolve as well. Politicians in Washington should take this opportunity ahead of the 2020 elections to move forward legislation...to both amend this failed policy and address the inequities and injustices it has brought for generations, particularly against communities of color.”
Justin Strekal, Political Director NORML
When asked along ideological lines, 83% of liberals approve of marijuana use compared to 51% of conservatives.
Currently, 11 states and Washington, D.C., have legalized marijuana. More than 30 others have medical programs.
