🕷️ Crawler Inspector

URL Lookup

Direct Parameter Lookup

Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 168 (from laksa089)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa168.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.cnet.com/news/politics/marijuana-laws-by-state-where-is-weed-legal/\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.cnet.com/news/politics/marijuana-laws-by-state-where-is-weed-legal/\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/news\/politics\/marijuana-laws-by-state-where-is-weed-legal\/","crawl_time":1776403726,"first_indexed_time":1672773955,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"com,cnet!www,\/news\/politics\/marijuana-laws-by-state-where-is-weed-legal\/ s443","src_root_hash":"2383275557131820768","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"Where Is Marijuana Legal? Cannabis Laws in Every State - CNET","meta_descriptions":["Minnesota is now the 23rd state to legalize recreational marijuana for adults over 21."],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"Minnesota is the 23rd state to legalize the recreational use of cannabis, which is still considered a Schedule I drug by the federal government.\nRex Wholster\/Getty Images\nOn May 30, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz signed a bill legalizing recreational marijuana, making it the 23rd state to do so.\n\"We've known for too long that prohibiting the use of cannabis hasn't worked,\" Walz, a member of the Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party, said \nin a statement\n. \"By legalizing adult-use cannabis, we're expanding our economy, creating jobs, and regulating the industry to keep Minnesotans safe.\" \nHF 100\nallows adults over 21 to possess up to two pounds of cannabis at home and two ounces in public. lt also establishes a 10% tax on recreational cannabis and calls for the expungement or resentencing of cannabis-related convictions. \nThe law is slated to go into effect Aug. 1, though retail dispensaries aren't expected to open until sometime next year,\naccording to\nthe Associated Press. Medical marijuana was legalized in Minnesota in 2014. \nHere's what to know about marijuana in the US, including which states have legalized it, what's happening on the federal level and how Americans feel about pot. \nWhich states have legalized recreational marijuana?\nMinnesota is the 23rd state to legalize the adult use of marijuana for recreational purposes,\naccording to\nthe National Conference of State Legislatures. The other states are Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri, Montana, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Nevada, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia and Washington.  \nAdult-use marijuana is also legal in the District of Columbia, Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands.\nWhat states have legalized medical marijuana?\nAs of May 2023,\n37 states have legalized the medical use\nof cannabis to varying degrees: Alaska, Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Hawaii, Illinois, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington and West Virginia.\nIn addition, all states with adult-use laws -- as well as the District of Columbia and the territories of Puerto Rico, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands and the US Virgin Islands -- have legalized medical marijuana.\nEach jurisdiction has its own criteria regarding what conditions cannabis can be prescribed for, the amount that can be sold and the process for issuing medical marijuana licenses.\nWhat does federal law say about marijuana?\nDespite the president's order, the \nDrug Enforcement Agency\n still classifies cannabis as a Schedule I drug under the Controlled Substances Act of 1970, \"with no currently accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse.\"\nOther Schedule I drugs include heroin and LSD, while cocaine is listed as a Schedule II drug.\nIn 2013, President Barack Obama \ndirected the Justice Department\n to defer to state authorities in jurisdictions that had legalized marijuana, \"based on assurances that those states will impose an appropriately strict regulatory system.\"\nKnown as the \nCole Memo\n, this guidance was rescinded in 2018 by Jeff Sessions, attorney general under President Donald Trump. Marijuana legalization advocates have encouraged Biden to direct current Attorney General Merrick Garland to reinstate the Cole Memo.\nHow do Americans feel about legalizing weed?\nAccording to a\n2021 Pew Research poll\n, 91% of Americans believe cannabis should be legalized to some degree -- 31% for medical use only and 60% for both medical and recreational use. (Only 8% of respondents said marijuana should not be legal at all.)\nSome 16% percent of Americans smoke pot, according to an August 2022 \nGallup poll\n, which is more than the\n11% of US adults\n who smoke cigarettes. \nGallup's research also found that nearly half (46%) of American adults say they've tried marijuana, despite it being registered as a Schedule I controlled substance by the federal government.\nPresident Biden on legalizing marijuana\nWhile campaigning for president, Joe Biden said he supported leaving regulation of recreational marijuana to individual states.\nScreenshot by Corinne Reichert\/CNET\nDuring his 2020 presidential campaign, then-candidate Biden promised to \"\ndecriminalize cannabis use\n and automatically expunge prior convictions.\" \nIf elected president, Biden said, he would \"support the legalization of cannabis for medical purposes, leave decisions regarding legalization for recreational use up to the states, and reschedule cannabis as a Schedule II drug so researchers can study its positive and negative impacts,\" according to his \ncampaign website\n, \nThough the president can't repeal federal marijuana laws, Biden issued an executive order in October 2022 granting a pardon to anyone with a federal conviction for simple marijuana possession. He also directed the Department of Health and Human Services and Attorney General Merrick Garland to review whether marijuana should remain listed as a Schedule I substance.\nWhat's the difference between legalization and decriminalization?\nMany states that have legalized marijuana initially decriminalized possession of a small amount. Broadly speaking, cannabis \"legalization\" means passing laws that allow the buying, selling and possessing of marijuana, usually with restrictions on the age of the consumer and the amount purchased.\nDecriminalization, on the other hand, typically means that violating certain marijuana laws can still result in fines or other penalties but not criminal charges or jail time. \nIn North Carolina, possession of half an ounce of marijuana or less is considered a \nClass 3 misdemeanor\n punishable by a $200 fine, \"but any sentence of imprisonment imposed must be suspended.\"\nIn Nebraska\n, the first-offense possession of an ounce or less is punishable by a maximum fine of $300 and a possible requirement to complete a drug education course. A second conviction is considered a misdemeanor, punishable by a maximum fine of $500. Subsequent convictions are also misdemeanors, punishable by a maximum fine of $500 and up to seven days in jail.\nMarijuana legalization efforts in Congress\nA measure abolishing federal criminal penalties for those growing, possessing or distributing cannabis passed the House in April 2022.\nMarguerite Reardon\/CNET\nAs more states legalize medical and recreational marijuana, an increasing number of lawmakers want to square up federal laws so they don't conflict with state regulations. A number of bills introduced in both the House and Senate would address various aspects of marijuana legalization, from the criminal to the financial.\nThe Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act\nNow with the Senate, the \nCannabis Administration and Opportunity Act\n, or CAOA, would end the federal ban on cannabis and give state-compliant cannabis businesses access to financial services like bank accounts, business loans and credit card transactions.\nThe 296-page bill also addresses a federally mandated impaired-driving standard, cannabis industry workers' rights, and penalties for possessing or distributing large amounts of cannabis without a permit, Marijuana Moment \nreported\n.\n \"Hundreds of millions of Americans live in states that have legalized cannabis in some form while it remains illegal at the federal level,\" Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, along with fellow Democrats Sen. Ron Wyden and Sen. Cory Booker, wrote in a February letter calling for input from fellow lawmakers.\nThat discrepancy \"breeds confusion and uncertainty,\" they said -- and raises numerous questions in areas from small-business growth to public safety. Advocates of legalization hope the bill will get a vote this session, while the Democrats still hold the Senate.\n\"McConnell would never bring these things to the floor,\" Schumer said last year, referring to Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, \naccording to Politico\n. \"We'll move forward and try to get this done as soon as we possibly can.\nThe MORE Act\nA separate bill, the \nMarijuana Opportunity and Reinvestment Expungement Act\n, passed the House in April. It would also abolish federal criminal penalties for those growing, possessing or distributing cannabis and expunge nonviolent cannabis convictions.\nThe MORE Act institutes a tax on cannabis to help communities impacted by decades of policing focused on nonviolent crimes related to marijuana use. The money would pay for programs such as job training, legal aid and youth mentoring.\nIt wouldn't require states to legalize cannabis, however. Regulation would be left up to state lawmakers.\nThe MORE Act originally passed the House in December 2020 -- the first time either chamber approved repealing federal marijuana prohibition -- but a matching bill in the Senate wasn't taken up for consideration.\nOther cannabis legislation\nOn Feb. 4, 2022, the House passed the \nSecure and Fair Enforcement Banking Act,\n which would grant state-licensed marijuana businesses access to financial services. On Oct. 30, Schumer said the Senate\nwas \"very close\"\nto passing the legislation.\nIn late March, the Senate unanimously approved the Cannabidiol and Marihuana Research Expansion Act, which would streamline the application process for researchers who want to study the medicinal value of cannabis and related products.\n\"This important legislation will cut the red tape around the research process, helping get FDA-approved, marijuana-derived medications safely to patients,\" Sen. Dianne Feinstein, a Democrat from California and a sponsor of the bill, \nsaid in a March 24 statement\n. ","attrs_markdown":"X\n\n[Your Guide To a Better Future](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/ \"CNET\")\n\n[Add as a preferred source on Google](https:\/\/www.google.com\/preferences\/source?q=cnet.com)\n\n- [News](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/news\/ \"News\")\n- [AI](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/ai-atlas\/ \"AI\")\n- [Tech](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/ \"Tech\")\n  - [VPN](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/vpn\/)\n  - [Phones](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/mobile\/phones\/)\n  - [Laptops](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/computing\/laptops\/)\n  - [Audio](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/home-entertainment\/audio\/)\n  - [TV](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/home-entertainment\/tvs\/)\n  - [Services & Software](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/services-and-software\/)\n  - [Computers](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/computing\/desktops\/)\n  [All Tech](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/ \"Tech\")\n- [Home](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/home\/ \"Home\")\n  - [Home Security](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/home\/security\/)\n  - [Smart Home](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/home\/smart-home\/)\n  - [Kitchen & Household](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/home\/kitchen-and-household\/)\n  - [Yard & Outdoors](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/home\/yard-and-outdoors\/)\n  - [Home Internet](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/home\/internet\/)\n  [All Home](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/home\/ \"Home\")\n- [Entertainment](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/culture\/entertainment\/ \"Entertainment\")\n  - [Gaming](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/gaming\/)\n  - [TV & Movies](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/streaming-services\/)\n  - [Streaming](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/streaming-services\/)\n  [All Entertainment](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/culture\/entertainment\/ \"Entertainment\")\n- [Wellness](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/health\/ \"Wellness\")\n  - [Sleep](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/health\/sleep\/)\n  - [Nutrition](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/health\/nutrition\/)\n  - [Fitness](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/health\/fitness\/)\n  - [Personal Care](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/health\/personal-care\/)\n  [All Wellness](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/health\/ \"Wellness\")\n- [Gift Guides](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/gifts\/ \"Gift Guides\")\n- [Cover Stories](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/feature\/cover-stories\/ \"Cover Stories\")\n- [More](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/news\/politics\/marijuana-laws-by-state-where-is-weed-legal\/ \"More\")\n  - [Money](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/personal-finance\/)\n  - [CNET Video](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/videos\/)\n  - [Editors' Choice](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/editors-choice\/)\n  [All More](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/news\/politics\/marijuana-laws-by-state-where-is-weed-legal\/ \"More\")\n\n[Add as a preferred source on Google](https:\/\/www.google.com\/preferences\/source?q=cnet.com)\n\nBack\n\nToday's Highlights\n\n- 01  [We're Hooked on Satellites. 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Gifts\n\n- [39 of the Best Tech Gifts Under \\$100 for 2026](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/gifts\/best-tech-gifts-under-100\/)\n- [Best Gifts for Gamers in 2026](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/gifts\/best-gifts-for-gamers\/)\n- [Best Travel Tech Gifts: Must-Haves for the Journey and the Destination](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/gifts\/best-travel-tech-gifts\/)\n\nGifts For Kids\n\n- [Best Toys for Kids in 2026](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/gifts\/best-toys-for-kids\/)\n- [36 Best Gifts for Teens in 2026](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/gifts\/best-gifts-for-teens\/)\n- [24 of the Best Gifts for Tweens in 2026](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/gifts\/best-gifts-for-tweens\/)\n\nGifts For Everyone\n\n- [The 23 Best Luxury Gifts Our Editors Say Are Worth Every Penny](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/gifts\/best-luxury-gifts\/)\n- [Best Gifts Available on Amazon: From \\$10 to \\$250](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/gifts\/best-gifts-available-on-amazon\/)\n- [34 Unique Gifts for People Who Have Everything](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/gifts\/gifts-for-people-who-have-everything\/)\n\nBack\n\nGift Guide\n\nOur gifting experts are obsessively searching for holiday gifts that are unique, thoughtful and suitable for any budget.\n\n[Explore all](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/gifts\/)\n\nBest Tech Gifts\n\n- [39 of the Best Tech Gifts Under \\$100 for 2026](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/gifts\/best-tech-gifts-under-100\/)\n- [Best Gifts for Gamers in 2026](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/gifts\/best-gifts-for-gamers\/)\n- [Best Travel Tech Gifts: Must-Haves for the Journey and the Destination](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/gifts\/best-travel-tech-gifts\/)\n\nGifts For Kids\n\n- [Best Toys for Kids in 2026](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/gifts\/best-toys-for-kids\/)\n- [36 Best Gifts for Teens in 2026](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/gifts\/best-gifts-for-teens\/)\n- [24 of the Best Gifts for Tweens in 2026](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/gifts\/best-gifts-for-tweens\/)\n\nGifts For Everyone\n\n- [The 23 Best Luxury Gifts Our Editors Say Are Worth Every Penny](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/gifts\/best-luxury-gifts\/)\n- [Best Gifts Available on Amazon: From \\$10 to \\$250](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/gifts\/best-gifts-available-on-amazon\/)\n- [34 Unique Gifts for People Who Have Everything](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/gifts\/gifts-for-people-who-have-everything\/)\n\nBack\n\nAI\n\nStay up to date on developments in the rapidly evolving world of AI with AI Atlas.\n\n[Explore all](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/ai-atlas\/)\n\nAI News\n\n- [iPhone 16E AI](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/services-and-software\/these-6-apple-intelligence-features-prove-that-apples-ai-tech-is-useful-now\/)\n- [Apple Intelligence Reboot](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/services-and-software\/apple-reportedly-planning-ai-comeback-complete-with-a-tabletop-robot\/)\n- [Galaxy S25 AI](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/mobile\/my-first-48-hours-with-the-galaxy-s25-ultra-has-me-in-awe\/)\n- [ChatGPT Image Gen](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/services-and-software\/chatgpts-gpus-are-melting-as-people-make-studio-ghibli-esque-ai-images\/)\n\nAI Reviews\n\n- [Best AI Image Generators](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/services-and-software\/best-ai-image-generators\/)\n- [ChatGPT Free vs. Plus](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/services-and-software\/heres-what-we-thought-of-chatgpt-free-vs-chatgpt-plus-back-in-2024\/)\n- [Google Gemini](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/services-and-software\/what-is-gemini-everything-you-should-know-about-googles-ai-tool\/)\n- [Microsoft Copilot](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/services-and-software\/microsoft-copilot-chatbot-review-bing-is-my-default-search-engine-now\/)\n- [Best AI Chatbots](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/services-and-software\/best-ai-chatbots\/)\n- [Best AI Website Builders](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/services-and-software\/best-ai-website-builder\/)\n- [ChatGPT vs Gemini](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/services-and-software\/chatgpt-vs-google-gemini\/)\n\nAI Guides\n\n- [How to Detect AI](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/services-and-software\/how-to-detect-ai-writing-using-these-tips\/)\n- [What is an LLM](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/services-and-software\/llms-and-ai-arent-the-same-everything-you-should-know-about-whats-behind-chatbots\/)\n- [AI Resume Writing](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/services-and-software\/how-to-write-a-resume-using-chatgpt\/)\n- [ChatGPT Glossary](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/services-and-software\/chatgpt-glossary\/)\n\nBack\n\nVPN\n\nVPN reviews and guides from our experts to help you boost your online privacy.\n\n[Explore all](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/vpn\/)\n\nBest VPNs\n\n- [Best VPN](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/services-and-software\/best-vpn\/)\n- [iPhone](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/services-and-software\/best-vpn-for-iphone\/)\n- [Free](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/services-and-software\/best-free-vpn\/)\n- [Amazon Fire Stick](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/services-and-software\/best-vpn-for-firestick\/)\n- [Mobile](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/services-and-software\/best-mobile-vpn\/)\n- [Streaming](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/services-and-software\/best-vpn-for-streaming\/)\n- [VPN Deals](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/deals\/best-vpn-deals\/)\n\nVPN Reviews\n\n- [ExpressVPN](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/services-and-software\/expressvpn-review\/)\n- [Surfshark](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/services-and-software\/surfshark-vpn-review\/)\n- [NordVPN](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/services-and-software\/nordvpn-review\/)\n- [NordVPN vs. ExpressVPN](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/services-and-software\/expressvpn-vs-nordvpn\/)\n\nBack\n\nPhones\n\nExpert reviews and insightful guides on the latest phones to help you find the perfect device for your needs.\n\n[Explore all](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/mobile\/phones\/)\n\nBest Phones\n\n- [Best Overall Phones](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/mobile\/best-phone\/)\n- [iPhone](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/mobile\/best-iphone\/)\n- [Android](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/mobile\/best-android-phone\/)\n- [iPhone Deals](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/deals\/best-iphone-16-deals\/)\n\nBest Phone Plans\n\n- [Family Plans](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/mobile\/best-family-phone-plan\/)\n- [Cellphone Plans](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/mobile\/best-phone-plans\/)\n- [Unlimited Plans](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/mobile\/best-unlimited-data-plan\/)\n\nPhone Reviews\n\n- [Galaxy S25 Ultra](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/mobile\/galaxy-s25-ultra-review-greatest-phone-screen-ever-and-lets-not-talk-about-the-ai\/)\n- [iPhone 16 Pro](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/mobile\/apple-iphone-16-pro-and-pro-max-review-compelling-upgrade-with-my-favorite-iphone-feature-in-years\/)\n- [iPhone 16 Cases](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/mobile\/best-iphone-16-and-iphone-16-pro-cases\/)\n\nBack\n\nLaptops\n\nGuides from our experts to help you find the best laptop for your specific needs.\n\n[Explore all](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/computing\/laptops\/)\n\nBest Laptops\n\n- [Best Laptop](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/computing\/best-laptop\/)\n- [School Laptop](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/computing\/best-laptop-for-college\/)\n- [Macbook](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/computing\/best-macbook\/)\n- [Windows](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/computing\/best-windows-laptop\/)\n- [Battery Life](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/computing\/best-battery-life-laptop\/)\n- [Lightweight](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/computing\/best-lightweight-laptop\/)\n- [Gaming](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/computing\/best-gaming-laptop\/)\n- [Budget](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/computing\/best-budget-laptop\/)\n- [Monitors](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/computing\/best-monitor\/)\n\nLaptop Guides\n\n- [Chromebook vs. Laptop](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/computing\/chromebook-vs-laptop-whats-the-difference\/)\n- [MacBook Air vs. MacBook Pro](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/computing\/macbook-air-vs-macbook-pro-which-macbook-should-i-buy\/)\n- [Laptop Deals](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/deals\/best-laptop-deals\/)\n\nBack\n\nAudio\n\nThe best of our audio guides to help you make the most of your listening experience.\n\n[Explore all](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/home-entertainment\/audio\/)\n\nBest Earbuds\n\n- [Wireless](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/mobile\/best-wireless-earbuds\/)\n- [Budget](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/mobile\/best-cheap-budget-wireless-earbuds\/)\n- [Noise-Canceling](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/mobile\/best-noise-canceling-wireless-earbuds\/)\n\nBest Headphones\n\n- [Best Overall Headphones](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/mobile\/best-headphones\/)\n- [Noise Canceling](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/mobile\/best-noise-canceling-headphones\/)\n- [Work from Home](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/mobile\/best-headphones-for-work-at-home\/)\n\nBest Speakers\n\n- [Bluetooth](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/home-entertainment\/best-bluetooth-speaker\/)\n- [Record Players](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/home-entertainment\/best-record-player-and-turntable\/)\n- [AV Receivers](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/home-entertainment\/best-av-receiver\/)\n\nBack\n\nTV\n\nWe'll help you make your entertainment as good as the movies.\n\n[Explore all](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/home-entertainment\/tvs\/)\n\nBest TVs\n\n- [Best Overall TVs](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/home-entertainment\/best-tv\/)\n- [65-inch](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/home-entertainment\/best-65-inch-tv\/)\n- [75-inch](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/home-entertainment\/best-75-inch-tv\/)\n- [Budget](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/home-entertainment\/best-budget-tv\/)\n- [TV Deals](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/deals\/best-tv-deals\/)\n- [QLED vs. OLED](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/home-entertainment\/qled-vs-oled-whats-better\/)\n\nTV Accessories\n\n- [Best Projectors](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/home-entertainment\/best-projector\/)\n- [Best TV Antenna](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/home-entertainment\/best-indoor-tv-antenna\/)\n\nTV Streaming Devices\n\n- [Best Streaming Device](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/home-entertainment\/best-streaming-device\/)\n- [Best Fire TV Stick](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/home-entertainment\/best-fire-tv-stick\/)\n\nBack\n\nServices & Software\n\nAll the news and tips you need to get the most out of services, apps and software you use every day.\n\n[Explore all](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/services-and-software\/)\n\nServices and Software\n\n- [Best Antivirus Software](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/services-and-software\/best-antivirus\/)\n- [Best Password Manager](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/services-and-software\/best-password-manager\/)\n- [Extra 15GB Gmail Storage](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/services-and-software\/gmail-inbox-zero-15gb-free-storage-space\/)\n\niOS Tips\n\n- [Settings to Change](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/mobile\/not-ready-for-ios-26-10-ios-18-settings-to-tweak-asap\/)\n- [How to Clear Your Cache](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/services-and-software\/iphone-browser-clear-cache\/)\n- [Hidden Features](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/services-and-software\/11-hidden-ios-18-5-features-i-love\/)\n\nWeb Hosting\n\n- [Minecraft Server](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/services-and-software\/best-minecraft-server-hosting\/)\n- [Best Web Hosting Services](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/services-and-software\/best-web-hosting\/)\n- [Best Cheap Web Hosting](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/services-and-software\/best-cheap-web-hosting\/)\n\nBack\n\nComputers\n\nWhat you need for work and play, and how to get the most out of it.\n\n[Explore all](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/computing\/desktops\/)\n\nBest Computers\n\n- [Desktop Computer](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/computing\/best-desktop-computer\/)\n- [Gaming PC](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/computing\/best-gaming-pc\/)\n- [iMac Deals](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/deals\/best-imac-deals\/)\n\nBest Tablets\n\n- [Best Overall Tablet](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/computing\/best-tablet\/)\n- [Best iPad](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/computing\/best-ipad\/)\n- [E Ink Tablets](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/computing\/best-e-ink-tablets\/)\n- [iPad Pro Deals](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/deals\/best-ipad-pro-deals\/)\n\nComputer Tips\n\n- [Recycle Old Tech](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/computing\/where-to-recycle-your-old-pc-laptop-and-printer-for-free\/)\n- [Windows on Mac](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/computing\/how-to-run-windows-from-your-mac\/)\n\nBack\n\nHome Security\n\nPractical advice on keeping your home safe and secure.\n\n[Explore all](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/home\/security\/)\n\nBest Home Security Cameras\n\n- [Best Overall Security Camera](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/home\/security\/best-home-security-camera\/)\n- [Outdoor](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/home\/security\/best-outdoor-home-security-cameras\/)\n- [With No Subscription](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/home\/security\/best-home-security-cameras-without-subscriptions\/)\n- [Wireless](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/home\/security\/best-wireless-home-security-cameras\/)\n\nBest Security Systems\n\n- [Best Overall Security System](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/home\/security\/best-home-security-system\/)\n- [DIY Security System](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/home\/security\/best-diy-home-security-systems\/)\n\nBest Security Products\n\n- [Ring Video Doorbell](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/home\/security\/best-ring-video-doorbells\/)\n- [Smoke Detectors](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/home\/security\/best-smoke-detector\/)\n- [Smart Locks](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/home\/security\/best-smart-locks\/)\n- [Video Doorbells](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/home\/security\/best-video-doorbell-cameras\/)\n\nBack\n\nSmart Home\n\nEverything you need to know to build a smart home that works for you.\n\n[Explore all](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/home\/smart-home\/)\n\nBest in Smart Home\n\n- [Indoor Smart Garden](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/home\/smart-home\/best-indoor-garden\/)\n- [HomeKit](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/home\/smart-home\/best-apple-homekit-siri-devices\/)\n- [Smart Thermostats](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/home\/energy-and-utilities\/best-smart-thermostats\/)\n- [Smart Garage Door Controller](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/home\/smart-home\/best-smart-garage-door-opener-controller\/)\n- [Smart Plugs](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/home\/smart-home\/best-smart-plugs\/)\n- [Smart Displays](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/home\/smart-home\/best-smart-displays\/)\n- [Smart Home Devices](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/home\/smart-home\/best-smart-home-devices\/)\n- [Smart Lights](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/home\/kitchen-and-household\/best-smart-lights\/)\n- [Amazon Alexa](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/home\/smart-home\/best-alexa-devices\/)\n- [Smart Home Deals](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/deals\/best-smart-home-deals\/)\n\nBest Electric Vehicles\n\n- [Best Overall EVs](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/home\/electric-vehicles\/best-ev-electric-car\/)\n- [EV Chargers](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/home\/electric-vehicles\/best-ev-charger\/)\n- [Budget](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/home\/electric-vehicles\/the-most-affordable-electric-cars\/)\n\nBack\n\nKitchen & Household\n\nFrom coffee makers to robot vacuums, we tackle what you need to know to keep your home running smoothly.\n\n[Explore all](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/home\/kitchen-and-household\/)\n\nBest in Home Tech\n\n- [Dishwashers](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/home\/kitchen-and-household\/best-dishwasher\/)\n- [Car Vacuums](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/home\/kitchen-and-household\/best-car-vacuum\/)\n- [Showerheads](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/home\/kitchen-and-household\/best-showerhead\/)\n- [Air Purifiers](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/home\/kitchen-and-household\/best-air-purifier\/)\n- [Cordless Vacuums](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/home\/kitchen-and-household\/best-cordless-vacuum\/)\n- [Robot Vacuums](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/home\/kitchen-and-household\/best-robot-vacuum\/)\n\nBest for Home Office\n\n- [Office Chairs](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/home\/kitchen-and-household\/best-office-chairs\/)\n- [Standing Desks](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/home\/kitchen-and-household\/best-standing-desk\/)\n- [Surge Protectors](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/home\/kitchen-and-household\/best-surge-protector\/)\n- [Tower Fans](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/home\/kitchen-and-household\/best-tower-fans\/)\n- [Dehumidifiers](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/home\/kitchen-and-household\/best-dehumidifier\/)\n\nBest in the Kitchen\n\n- [Air Fryers](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/home\/kitchen-and-household\/best-air-fryer\/)\n- [Bread Machines](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/home\/kitchen-and-household\/best-bread-machines\/)\n- [Meat Thermometers](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/home\/kitchen-and-household\/best-meat-thermometers\/)\n- [Nonstick Pans](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/home\/kitchen-and-household\/best-nonstick-pan\/)\n\nBack\n\nYard & Outdoors\n\nAll the tools, gear and skills you need to keep your home's yard and outdoor spaces looking sharp.\n\n[Explore all](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/home\/yard-and-outdoors\/)\n\nBest in Yard & Outdoors\n\n- [Garden Hoses](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/home\/yard-and-outdoors\/best-garden-hoses\/)\n- [Pressure Washers](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/home\/yard-and-outdoors\/best-pressure-washer\/)\n- [Water Guns](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/home\/yard-and-outdoors\/best-water-guns\/)\n- [Grills](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/home\/yard-and-outdoors\/best-grill\/)\n- [Electric Lawn Mowers](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/home\/yard-and-outdoors\/best-electric-lawn-mower\/)\n- [Solar Batteries](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/home\/solar\/best-solar-batteries\/)\n- [Portable Power Stations](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/home\/energy-and-utilities\/best-portable-power-stations\/)\n\nBack\n\nHome Internet\n\nWe unpack everything you need to know about internet service.\n\n[Explore all](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/home\/internet\/)\n\nInternet Reviews\n\n- [Verizon 5G](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/home\/internet\/verizon-5g-home-internet-review\/)\n- [T-Mobile 5G](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/home\/internet\/t-mobile-5g-home-internet-review\/)\n- [Xfinity Internet](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/home\/internet\/xfinity-internet-review\/)\n- [AT\\&T Internet Air](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/home\/internet\/at-t-internet-air-review\/)\n- [Starlink](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/home\/internet\/starlink-internet-review\/)\n- [Best ISPs](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/home\/internet\/best-internet-providers\/)\n\nBest Routers\n\n- [Best Overall Routers](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/home\/internet\/best-wi-fi-routers\/)\n- [Gaming](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/home\/internet\/best-gaming-routers\/)\n- [Wi-Fi Extenders](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/home\/internet\/best-wifi-extenders\/)\n- [Mesh Wi-Fi Systems](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/home\/internet\/best-mesh-wifi-routers\/)\n\nTop ISPs by Location\n\n- [Chicago, IL](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/home\/internet\/best-internet-providers-in-chicago-il\/)\n- [San Francisco, CA](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/home\/internet\/best-internet-providers-in-san-francisco-ca\/)\n- [Houston, TX](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/home\/internet\/best-internet-providers-in-houston-tx\/)\n- [New York, NY](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/home\/internet\/best-internet-providers-in-new-york-ny\/)\n\nBack\n\nGaming\n\nReviews, news and buying advice on console, PC, handheld and VR gaming.\n\n[Explore all](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/gaming\/)\n\nNintendo Switch 2\n\n- [How to Buy the Switch 2](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/deals\/nintendo-switch-2-restock-tracker\/)\n- [Switch 1 vs. Switch 2](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/gaming\/nintendo-switch-2-vs-switch-1-gamers-start-your-specs-breakdowns\/)\n- [Switch Deals](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/deals\/best-nintendo-switch-deals\/)\n\nBest Games by Platform\n\n- [Nintendo Switch](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/gaming\/top-best-nintendo-switch-games\/)\n- [PlayStation 5](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/gaming\/best-ps5-games\/)\n- [Xbox](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/gaming\/best-xbox-games-for-xbox-one-series-x-s\/)\n- [PC Games](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/gaming\/best-pc-games-right-now\/)\n- [Mobile](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/gaming\/the-15-best-mobile-games-in-2025-top-iphone-and-android-games\/)\n- [Virtual Reality](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/gaming\/best-vr-games\/)\n\nBest Gaming Hardware\n\n- [VR Headsets](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/gaming\/best-vr-headset\/)\n- [SSDs for PS5](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/gaming\/best-m2-ssd\/)\n\nBest Gaming Deals\n\n- [PlayStation Plus](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/deals\/best-playstation-plus-deals\/)\n- [Xbox Game Pass](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/deals\/best-xbox-game-pass-deals\/)\n- [Free Xbox Game Pass](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/gaming\/how-to-get-xbox-game-pass-for-free\/)\n- [Xbox Deals](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/deals\/best-xbox-deals\/)\n\nBack\n\nTV & Movies\n\nWhen and where to watch TV shows, movies, and live events on streaming services.\n\n[Explore all](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/streaming-services\/)\n\nWhat to Watch\n\n- [Best Shows This Week](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/services-and-software\/what-to-stream-on-tv-this-week-nonnas-poker-face-and-more\/)\n- [Best Netflix Shows](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/services-and-software\/best-tv-shows-netflix\/)\n- [Best Netflix Movies](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/services-and-software\/best-movies-on-netflix\/)\n- [Best Max Shows](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/culture\/entertainment\/best-shows-to-watch-on-hbo-max\/)\n- [Best Max Movies](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/services-and-software\/best-movies-to-watch-on-hbo-max\/)\n- [Best Prime Video Shows](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/services-and-software\/best-shows-to-watch-on-prime-video\/)\n- [Best Prime Video Horror Movies](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/services-and-software\/best-horror-movies-to-watch-on-prime-video\/)\n- [Best Prime Video Sci-Fi Movies](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/services-and-software\/prime-video-best-sci-fi-movies\/)\n- [Best Disney Plus Shows](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/services-and-software\/disney-plus-best-tv-shows-2026\/)\n- [Best Apple TV Sci-Fi Shows](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/services-and-software\/best-apple-tv-plus-sci-fi-shows\/)\n- [Best Hulu Horror Movies](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/culture\/entertainment\/best-horror-movies-on-hulu\/)\n- [Best Peacock Shows](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/services-and-software\/best-shows-to-watch-on-peacock\/)\n\nBack\n\nStreaming\n\nNews, comparisons and advice to help you make sense of streaming.\n\n[Explore all](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/streaming-services\/)\n\nBest Streaming Services\n\n- [Best Overall Streaming Services](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/services-and-software\/best-streaming-service\/)\n- [Free](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/services-and-software\/best-free-tv-streaming-services\/)\n- [Live TV](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/services-and-software\/best-live-tv-streaming-service-for-cord-cutters\/)\n- [4K Content](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/services-and-software\/best-streaming-services-for-4k-content\/)\n- [Kids](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/services-and-software\/best-streaming-services-for-kids\/)\n- [Music](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/services-and-software\/best-music-streaming-service\/)\n- [Streaming Deals](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/deals\/best-streaming-service-deals\/)\n\nStreaming Service Reviews\n\n- [YouTube TV](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/services-and-software\/youtube-tv-review\/)\n- [Hulu Plus Live TV](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/services-and-software\/hulu-plus-live-tv-review-for-cord-cutters-who-enjoy-premium-channels-perks\/)\n- [Netflix](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/services-and-software\/netflix-review-our-top-pick-sea-streaming-choices\/)\n- [Max](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/services-and-software\/max-streaming-service-review-loads-of-content-but-you-have-to-make-it-fit-you\/)\n- [Youtube TV vs. Hulu Plus TV](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/services-and-software\/youtube-tv-vs-hulu-plus-live-tv-rated-the-pros-and-cons-of-each-streaming-service\/)\n\nBack\n\nSleep\n\nOur science-backed advice will help you sleep well every night.\n\n[Explore all](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/health\/sleep\/)\n\nBest Mattresses\n\n- [Best Overall](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/health\/sleep\/best-mattresses\/)\n- [King](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/health\/sleep\/best-king-mattress\/)\n- [Firm](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/health\/sleep\/best-firm-mattress\/)\n- [Memory Foam](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/health\/sleep\/best-memory-foam-mattress\/)\n- [Twin](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/health\/sleep\/best-twin-mattress\/)\n- [Adjustable](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/health\/sleep\/best-adjustable-mattress\/)\n- [Plus Size](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/health\/sleep\/best-mattress-for-heavy-people\/)\n- [Side Sleepers](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/health\/sleep\/best-mattress-for-side-sleepers\/)\n- [Air Mattresses](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/health\/sleep\/best-air-mattress\/)\n\nMattress Reviews\n\n- [Tempur-Pedic](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/health\/sleep\/tempurpedic-mattress-review\/)\n- [DreamCloud](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/health\/sleep\/dreamcloud-mattress-review\/)\n- [Nectar](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/health\/sleep\/nectar-mattress-review\/)\n- [Beautyrest](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/health\/sleep\/beautyrest-mattress-review\/)\n- [Helix](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/health\/sleep\/helix-mattress-reviews\/)\n- [Purple](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/health\/sleep\/ive-tested-every-purple-mattress-here-are-my-thoughts-on-the-new-line\/)\n- [Mattress Deals](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/deals\/best-mattress-deals\/)\n\nBest Sleep Products\n\n- [Cooling Comforters](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/health\/sleep\/best-cooling-comforters\/)\n- [Cooling Mattress Toppers](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/health\/sleep\/best-cooling-mattress-toppers\/)\n- [Earplugs for Sleeping](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/health\/sleep\/best-earplugs-for-sleeping\/)\n- [Sleep Trackers](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/health\/sleep\/best-sleep-tracker\/)\n- [Travel Pillows](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/health\/sleep\/best-travel-pillows\/)\n- [Best Pillows](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/health\/sleep\/best-pillow\/)\n- [Cooling Pillows](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/health\/sleep\/best-cooling-pillows\/)\n- [Sleep Headphones](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/health\/sleep\/cnet-experts-8-favorite-sleep-headphones-in-2026\/)\n\nBack\n\nNutrition\n\nFrom plant-based meat to the latest diet trend, we help you eat healthy.\n\n[Explore all](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/health\/nutrition\/)\n\nBest Meal Kits\n\n- [Best Overall Meal Kit](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/health\/nutrition\/best-meal-kit-delivery-service\/)\n- [Meal Delivery Deals](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/deals\/best-meal-kit-and-meal-delivery-deals\/)\n- [Vegan](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/health\/nutrition\/best-vegan-meal-delivery-services\/)\n- [Healthy](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/health\/nutrition\/best-healthy-meal-delivery-service\/)\n- [Meat Delivery](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/health\/nutrition\/best-meat-delivery-service\/)\n- [Keto](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/health\/nutrition\/best-keto-meal-delivery\/)\n- [Cheapest](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/health\/nutrition\/cheapest-meal-delivery-service\/)\n\nNutrition Tips\n\n- [Protein Visual Guide](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/health\/nutrition\/what-100-grams-protein-looks-like-plate-different-diets\/)\n- [Meal Kits vs. Groceries](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/health\/nutrition\/meal-kits-have-gotten-cheap-but-are-they-cheaper-than-groceries\/)\n- [Natural Sugar Substitutes](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/health\/nutrition\/the-6-best-natural-sugar-substitutes-want-cut-out-processed-white-sugar\/)\n- [Apple Cider Vinegar](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/health\/nutrition\/apple-cider-vinegar-benefits-side-effects-dosage\/)\n\nBack\n\nFitness\n\nNo matter your fitness goals, we've got the expert tips you need.\n\n[Explore all](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/health\/fitness\/)\n\nBest Fitness Equipment\n\n- [Peloton Alternatives](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/health\/fitness\/best-peloton-alternatives\/)\n- [Smart Home Gyms](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/health\/fitness\/best-smart-home-gym\/)\n- [Exercise Bikes](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/health\/fitness\/best-exercise-bike\/)\n- [Treadmills](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/health\/fitness\/best-treadmills\/)\n- [Ellipticals](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/health\/fitness\/best-elliptical\/)\n\nBest Fitness Accessories\n\n- [Smart Scale](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/health\/fitness\/get-accurate-readings-with-the-best-smart-scales-for-your-bathroom\/)\n- [Massage Guns](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/health\/fitness\/best-massage-gun\/)\n- [Heart Rate Monitor](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/health\/fitness\/best-chest-strap-heart-rate-monitors\/)\n\nBack\n\nPersonal Care\n\nWe share how to look and feel so fresh and clean.\n\n[Explore all](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/health\/personal-care\/)\n\nBest in Eyewear\n\n- [Replacement Rx Lenses](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/health\/personal-care\/best-places-to-buy-replacement-prescription-lenses\/)\n- [Reading Glasses](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/health\/personal-care\/best-places-to-buy-reading-glasses-online\/)\n- [OTC Eye Drops](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/health\/personal-care\/best-eye-drops\/)\n- [Vitamins for Healthy Eyes](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/health\/personal-care\/supplements-best-nurturing-eyes-vision\/)\n- [Online Glasses Stores](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/health\/personal-care\/best-places-to-buy-glasses-online\/)\n- [Online Contact Lenses](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/health\/personal-care\/best-place-to-buy-contacts-online\/)\n\nBest in Dental Care\n\n- [Electric Toothbrushes](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/health\/personal-care\/best-electric-toothbrush\/)\n- [Teeth Whitening Strips](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/health\/personal-care\/best-teeth-whitening-strips\/)\n- [Whitening Toothpaste](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/health\/personal-care\/best-whitening-toothpaste\/)\n\nBack\n\nMoney\n\nGet the latest news and share tips for making better decisions for your financial future.\n\n[Explore all](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/personal-finance\/)\n\nSocial Security\n\n- [Social Security Check Tracker](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/personal-finance\/social-security-august-2025-the-next-round-of-payments-is-coming-soon\/)\n- [Social Security Mistakes](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/personal-finance\/dont-lose-your-social-security-benefits-these-mistakes-will-cost-you\/)\n- [How to Maximize Social Security](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/personal-finance\/social-security-2025-what-goes-into-determining-your-monthly-payment-and-how-to-maximize-it\/)\n\nBest Finance Software\n\n- [Identity Theft Protection](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/services-and-software\/best-identity-theft-protection\/)\n- [Tax Software](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/services-and-software\/best-tax-software-2026\/)\n- [TurboTax Review](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/services-and-software\/turbotax-review-2026\/)\n- [Free Tax Filing](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/services-and-software\/best-free-tax-software-2026\/)\n- [Rocket Money Review](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/personal-finance\/banking\/rocket-money\/)\n- [Zelle Limits](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/personal-finance\/banking\/zelle-limits-at-top-banks\/)\n\nBack\n\nCNET Video\n\nYour video guide to the ever-changing tech world.\n\n[Explore all](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/videos\/)\n\n- [Expert vs. AI: Is Now the Time to Buy an EV? - CNET](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/videos\/expert-vs-ai-is-now-the-time-to-buy-an-ev\/)\n- [The Real Reason to Upgrade to iPhone 16E (It's Not AI) - CNET](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/videos\/the-real-reason-to-upgrade-to-iphone-16e-its-not-ai\/)\n- [Watch Unitree's G1 Humanoid Robot Run in New Video - CNET](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/videos\/watch-unitrees-g1-humanoid-robot-run-in-new-video\/)\n- [iPhone SE 4 vs. iPhone 17 Air Rumors: Does Size Matter Over Cost? - CNET](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/videos\/does-iphone-size-matter-iphone-se-4-vs-iphone-17-air-rumors\/)\n\nBack\n\nEditors' Choice\n\nOur Editors' Choice awards represent the very best products and services our expert editors recommend.\n\n[Explore all](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/editors-choice\/)\n\n- [Subscription Services](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/editors-choice\/cnet-editors-choice-our-top-picks-in-subscription-services\/)\n- [Energy Services](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/editors-choice\/cnet-editors-choice-our-top-picks-in-energy-services\/)\n- [Giftable Tech](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/editors-choice\/cnet-editors-choice-our-top-picks-in-giftable-tech\/)\n- [Money and Wellness](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/editors-choice\/editors-choice-2024-money-and-wellness\/)\n\n[The New White House App Poses a Security Threat](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/videos\/the-new-white-house-app-poses-a-security-threat\/)\n\n[The New White House App Poses a Security Threat](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/videos\/the-new-white-house-app-poses-a-security-threat\/)\n\nClick to unmute\n\nVideo Player is loading.\n\nPlay Video\n\nPause\n\nSkip Backward\n\nSkip Forward\n\nNext playlist item\n\nUnmute\n\nCurrent Time 0:07\n\n\/\n\nDuration 0:43\n\nLoaded: 100\\.00%\n\n0:07\n\n![]()\n\nStream Type LIVE\n\nSeek to live, currently behind liveLIVE\n\nRemaining Time \\-0:36\n\n1x\n\nPlayback Rate\n\nChapters\n\n- Chapters\n\nDescriptions\n\n- descriptions off, 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Escape will cancel and close the window.\n\nText\n\nColor\n\nOpacity\n\nText Background\n\nColor\n\nOpacity\n\nCaption Area Background\n\nColor\n\nOpacity\n\nFont Size\n\nText Edge Style\n\nFont Family\n\nReset\n\nDone\n\nClose Modal Dialog\n\nEnd of dialog window.\n\nClose Modal Dialog\n\nThis is a modal window. This modal can be closed by pressing the Escape key or activating the close button.\n\nClose Modal Dialog\n\nThis is a modal window. This modal can be closed by pressing the Escape key or activating the close button.\n\nWhy You Can Trust CNET Money\n\nThe editorial content on this page is based solely on objective, independent assessments by our writers and is not influenced by advertising or partnerships. It has not been provided or commissioned by any third party. However, we may receive compensation when you click on links to products or services offered by our partners. [Review CNET's ethics statement](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/tech\/how-we-test-products-and-services\/).\n\n- News\n- [Politics](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/news\/politics\/)\n\n# Where Is Marijuana Legal? Cannabis Laws in Every State\nMinnesota is now the 23rd state to legalize recreational marijuana for adults over 21.\n\n![Headshot of Dan Avery](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/images\/logos\/cnet_load.png)\n\n![Headshot of Dan Avery](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/images\/logos\/cnet_load.png)\n\nDan Avery Former Writer\n\nDan was a writer on CNET's How-To and Thought Leadership teams. His byline has appeared in The New York Times, Newsweek, NBC News, Architectural Digest and elsewhere. He is a crossword junkie and is interested in the intersection of tech and marginalized communities.\n\nExpertise Personal finance \\| Government and Policy \\| Consumer affairs\n\n[See full bio](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/profiles\/daverydcny\/)\n\nDan Avery\n\nMay 31, 2023 9:00 a.m. PT\n\n6 min read\n\n![state sign for Minnesota with cannabis leaf](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/images\/logos\/cnet_load.png)\n\nMinnesota is the 23rd state to legalize the recreational use of cannabis, which is still considered a Schedule I drug by the federal government.\n\nRex Wholster\/Getty Images\n\nOn May 30, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz signed a bill legalizing recreational marijuana, making it the 23rd state to do so.  \n\"We've known for too long that prohibiting the use of cannabis hasn't worked,\" Walz, a member of the Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party, said [in a statement](https:\/\/mn.gov\/governor\/newsroom\/press-releases\/#\/detail\/appId\/1\/id\/579413 \"(opens in a new window)\"). \"By legalizing adult-use cannabis, we're expanding our economy, creating jobs, and regulating the industry to keep Minnesotans safe.\"\n\n[HF 100](https:\/\/www.revisor.mn.gov\/bills\/bill.php?b=house&f=HF100&ssn=0&y=2023 \"(opens in a new window)\") allows adults over 21 to possess up to two pounds of cannabis at home and two ounces in public. lt also establishes a 10% tax on recreational cannabis and calls for the expungement or resentencing of cannabis-related convictions.\n\nThe law is slated to go into effect Aug. 1, though retail dispensaries aren't expected to open until sometime next year, [according to](https:\/\/apnews.com\/article\/marijuana-legalization-recreational-minnesota-cannabis-31a77e46389fe3ed0472ddff672cf22f \"(opens in a new window)\") the Associated Press. Medical marijuana was legalized in Minnesota in 2014.\n\nHere's what to know about marijuana in the US, including which states have legalized it, what's happening on the federal level and how Americans feel about pot.\n\n## Which states have legalized recreational marijuana?\nMinnesota is the 23rd state to legalize the adult use of marijuana for recreational purposes, [according to](https:\/\/www.ncsl.org\/research\/health\/state-medical-marijuana-laws.aspx \"(opens in a new window)\") the National Conference of State Legislatures. The other states are Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri, Montana, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Nevada, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia and Washington.\n\nAdult-use marijuana is also legal in the District of Columbia, Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands.\n\n## What states have legalized medical marijuana?\nAs of May 2023, [37 states have legalized the medical use](https:\/\/ballotpedia.org\/Marijuana_laws_and_ballot_measures_in_the_United_States \"(opens in a new window)\") of cannabis to varying degrees: Alaska, Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Hawaii, Illinois, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington and West Virginia.\n\nIn addition, all states with adult-use laws -- as well as the District of Columbia and the territories of Puerto Rico, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands and the US Virgin Islands -- have legalized medical marijuana.\n\nEach jurisdiction has its own criteria regarding what conditions cannabis can be prescribed for, the amount that can be sold and the process for issuing medical marijuana licenses.\n\n## What does federal law say about marijuana?\nDespite the president's order, the [Drug Enforcement Agency](https:\/\/www.dea.gov\/drug-information\/drug-scheduling#:~:text=Schedule%20I%20drugs%2C%20substances%2C%20or,\\)%2C%20methaqualone%2C%20and%20peyote. \"(opens in a new window)\") still classifies cannabis as a Schedule I drug under the Controlled Substances Act of 1970, \"with no currently accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse.\"  \n   \n Other Schedule I drugs include heroin and LSD, while cocaine is listed as a Schedule II drug.\n\nIn 2013, President Barack Obama [directed the Justice Department](https:\/\/www.justice.gov\/opa\/pr\/justice-department-announces-update-marijuana-enforcement-policy \"(opens in a new window)\") to defer to state authorities in jurisdictions that had legalized marijuana, \"based on assurances that those states will impose an appropriately strict regulatory system.\"\n\nKnown as the [Cole Memo](https:\/\/www.justice.gov\/opa\/pr\/justice-department-announces-update-marijuana-enforcement-policy \"(opens in a new window)\"), this guidance was rescinded in 2018 by Jeff Sessions, attorney general under President Donald Trump. Marijuana legalization advocates have encouraged Biden to direct current Attorney General Merrick Garland to reinstate the Cole Memo.\n\n## How do Americans feel about legalizing weed?\nAccording to a [2021 Pew Research poll](https:\/\/www.pewresearch.org\/fact-tank\/2021\/04\/16\/americans-overwhelmingly-say-marijuana-should-be-legal-for-recreational-or-medical-use\/ \"(opens in a new window)\"), 91% of Americans believe cannabis should be legalized to some degree -- 31% for medical use only and 60% for both medical and recreational use. (Only 8% of respondents said marijuana should not be legal at all.)  \n   \n Some 16% percent of Americans smoke pot, according to an August 2022 [Gallup poll](https:\/\/news.gallup.com\/poll\/396893\/americans-not-convinced-marijuana-benefits-society.aspx \"(opens in a new window)\"), which is more than the [11% of US adults](https:\/\/news.gallup.com\/poll\/1717\/tobacco-smoking.aspx \"(opens in a new window)\") who smoke cigarettes.\n\nGallup's research also found that nearly half (46%) of American adults say they've tried marijuana, despite it being registered as a Schedule I controlled substance by the federal government.\n\n## President Biden on legalizing marijuana\n![Biden press conference](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/images\/logos\/cnet_load.png)\n\nWhile campaigning for president, Joe Biden said he supported leaving regulation of recreational marijuana to individual states.\n\nScreenshot by Corinne Reichert\/CNET\n\nDuring his 2020 presidential campaign, then-candidate Biden promised to \"[decriminalize cannabis use](https:\/\/www.timesrepublican.com\/opinion\/columnists\/2022\/01\/its-time-for-biden-to-keep-his-promises-on-marijuana\/ \"(opens in a new window)\") and automatically expunge prior convictions.\"\n\nIf elected president, Biden said, he would \"support the legalization of cannabis for medical purposes, leave decisions regarding legalization for recreational use up to the states, and reschedule cannabis as a Schedule II drug so researchers can study its positive and negative impacts,\" according to his [campaign website](https:\/\/joebiden.com\/justice\/ \"(opens in a new window)\"),\n\nThough the president can't repeal federal marijuana laws, Biden issued an executive order in October 2022 granting a pardon to anyone with a federal conviction for simple marijuana possession. He also directed the Department of Health and Human Services and Attorney General Merrick Garland to review whether marijuana should remain listed as a Schedule I substance.\n\n## What's the difference between legalization and decriminalization?\nMany states that have legalized marijuana initially decriminalized possession of a small amount. Broadly speaking, cannabis \"legalization\" means passing laws that allow the buying, selling and possessing of marijuana, usually with restrictions on the age of the consumer and the amount purchased.\n\nDecriminalization, on the other hand, typically means that violating certain marijuana laws can still result in fines or other penalties but not criminal charges or jail time.\n\nIn North Carolina, possession of half an ounce of marijuana or less is considered a [Class 3 misdemeanor](https:\/\/www.ncleg.net\/EnactedLegislation\/Statutes\/HTML\/ByArticle\/Chapter_90\/Article_5.html \"(opens in a new window)\") punishable by a \\$200 fine, \"but any sentence of imprisonment imposed must be suspended.\"\n\n[In Nebraska](https:\/\/nebraskalegislature.gov\/laws\/statutes.php?statute=28-416 \"(opens in a new window)\"), the first-offense possession of an ounce or less is punishable by a maximum fine of \\$300 and a possible requirement to complete a drug education course. A second conviction is considered a misdemeanor, punishable by a maximum fine of \\$500. Subsequent convictions are also misdemeanors, punishable by a maximum fine of \\$500 and up to seven days in jail.\n\n## Marijuana legalization efforts in Congress\n![us-capitol-building.jpg](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/images\/logos\/cnet_load.png)\n\nA measure abolishing federal criminal penalties for those growing, possessing or distributing cannabis passed the House in April 2022.\n\nMarguerite Reardon\/CNET\n\nAs more states legalize medical and recreational marijuana, an increasing number of lawmakers want to square up federal laws so they don't conflict with state regulations. A number of bills introduced in both the House and Senate would address various aspects of marijuana legalization, from the criminal to the financial.\n\n**The Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act**  \n Now with the Senate, the [Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act](https:\/\/www.democrats.senate.gov\/imo\/media\/doc\/CAOA%20Detailed%20Summary%20-.pdf \"(opens in a new window)\"), or CAOA, would end the federal ban on cannabis and give state-compliant cannabis businesses access to financial services like bank accounts, business loans and credit card transactions.\n\nThe 296-page bill also addresses a federally mandated impaired-driving standard, cannabis industry workers' rights, and penalties for possessing or distributing large amounts of cannabis without a permit, Marijuana Moment [reported](https:\/\/www.marijuanamoment.net\/senate-bill-to-federally-legalize-marijuana-and-promote-social-equity-finally-filed-by-schumer-booker-and-wyden\/ \"(opens in a new window)\").\n\n\"Hundreds of millions of Americans live in states that have legalized cannabis in some form while it remains illegal at the federal level,\" Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, along with fellow Democrats Sen. Ron Wyden and Sen. Cory Booker, wrote in a February letter calling for input from fellow lawmakers.\n\nThat discrepancy \"breeds confusion and uncertainty,\" they said -- and raises numerous questions in areas from small-business growth to public safety. Advocates of legalization hope the bill will get a vote this session, while the Democrats still hold the Senate.\n\n\"McConnell would never bring these things to the floor,\" Schumer said last year, referring to Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, [according to Politico](https:\/\/www.politico.com\/news\/2022\/07\/21\/schumer-legal-weed-bill-00047058 \"(opens in a new window)\"). \"We'll move forward and try to get this done as soon as we possibly can.\n\n**The MORE Act**  \n A separate bill, the [Marijuana Opportunity and Reinvestment Expungement Act](https:\/\/www.govinfo.gov\/app\/details\/BILLS-117hr3617eh#:~:text=An%20Act%20To%20decriminalize%20and,offenses%2C%20and%20for%20other%20purposes. \"(opens in a new window)\"), passed the House in April. It would also abolish federal criminal penalties for those growing, possessing or distributing cannabis and expunge nonviolent cannabis convictions.\n\nThe MORE Act institutes a tax on cannabis to help communities impacted by decades of policing focused on nonviolent crimes related to marijuana use. The money would pay for programs such as job training, legal aid and youth mentoring.  \n   \n It wouldn't require states to legalize cannabis, however. Regulation would be left up to state lawmakers.\n\nThe MORE Act originally passed the House in December 2020 -- the first time either chamber approved repealing federal marijuana prohibition -- but a matching bill in the Senate wasn't taken up for consideration.\n\n**Other cannabis legislation** On Feb. 4, 2022, the House passed the [Secure and Fair Enforcement Banking Act,](https:\/\/www.congress.gov\/bill\/117th-congress\/house-bill\/1996#:~:text=This%20bill%20generally%20prohibits%20a,a%20legitimate%20cannabis-related%20business. \"(opens in a new window)\") which would grant state-licensed marijuana businesses access to financial services. On Oct. 30, Schumer said the Senate [was \"very close\"](https:\/\/www.proactiveinvestors.com\/companies\/news\/996900\/cannabis-msos-rocket-after-schumer-says-congress-is-very-close-to-passing-safe-cannabis-banking-legislation-996900.html \"(opens in a new window)\") to passing the legislation.\n\nIn late March, the Senate unanimously approved the Cannabidiol and Marihuana Research Expansion Act, which would streamline the application process for researchers who want to study the medicinal value of cannabis and related products.\n\n\"This important legislation will cut the red tape around the research process, helping get FDA-approved, marijuana-derived medications safely to patients,\" Sen. Dianne Feinstein, a Democrat from California and a sponsor of the bill, [said in a March 24 statement](https:\/\/www.feinstein.senate.gov\/public\/index.cfm\/press-releases?id=7A3020FD-4E3B-46E5-83E9-89BF12450C96 \"(opens in a new window)\").\n\n## About the Author\n![Headshot of Dan Avery](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/images\/logos\/cnet_load.png)\n\n[Dan Avery](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/profiles\/daverydcny\/)\n\nFormer Writer\n\n[Dan Avery](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/profiles\/daverydcny\/)\n\nFormer Writer\n\nDan was a writer on CNET's How-To and Thought Leadership teams. His byline has appeared in The New York Times, Newsweek, NBC News, Architectural Digest and elsewhere. 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All rights reserved.","attrs_readable_markdown":"![state sign for Minnesota with cannabis leaf](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/images\/logos\/cnet_load.png)\n\nMinnesota is the 23rd state to legalize the recreational use of cannabis, which is still considered a Schedule I drug by the federal government.\n\nRex Wholster\/Getty Images\n\nOn May 30, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz signed a bill legalizing recreational marijuana, making it the 23rd state to do so.  \n\"We've known for too long that prohibiting the use of cannabis hasn't worked,\" Walz, a member of the Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party, said [in a statement](https:\/\/mn.gov\/governor\/newsroom\/press-releases\/#\/detail\/appId\/1\/id\/579413 \"(opens in a new window)\"). \"By legalizing adult-use cannabis, we're expanding our economy, creating jobs, and regulating the industry to keep Minnesotans safe.\"\n\n[HF 100](https:\/\/www.revisor.mn.gov\/bills\/bill.php?b=house&f=HF100&ssn=0&y=2023 \"(opens in a new window)\") allows adults over 21 to possess up to two pounds of cannabis at home and two ounces in public. lt also establishes a 10% tax on recreational cannabis and calls for the expungement or resentencing of cannabis-related convictions.\n\nThe law is slated to go into effect Aug. 1, though retail dispensaries aren't expected to open until sometime next year, [according to](https:\/\/apnews.com\/article\/marijuana-legalization-recreational-minnesota-cannabis-31a77e46389fe3ed0472ddff672cf22f \"(opens in a new window)\") the Associated Press. Medical marijuana was legalized in Minnesota in 2014.\n\nHere's what to know about marijuana in the US, including which states have legalized it, what's happening on the federal level and how Americans feel about pot.\n\n## Which states have legalized recreational marijuana?\nMinnesota is the 23rd state to legalize the adult use of marijuana for recreational purposes, [according to](https:\/\/www.ncsl.org\/research\/health\/state-medical-marijuana-laws.aspx \"(opens in a new window)\") the National Conference of State Legislatures. The other states are Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri, Montana, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Nevada, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia and Washington.\n\nAdult-use marijuana is also legal in the District of Columbia, Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands.\n\n## What states have legalized medical marijuana?\nAs of May 2023, [37 states have legalized the medical use](https:\/\/ballotpedia.org\/Marijuana_laws_and_ballot_measures_in_the_United_States \"(opens in a new window)\") of cannabis to varying degrees: Alaska, Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Hawaii, Illinois, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington and West Virginia.\n\nIn addition, all states with adult-use laws -- as well as the District of Columbia and the territories of Puerto Rico, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands and the US Virgin Islands -- have legalized medical marijuana.\n\nEach jurisdiction has its own criteria regarding what conditions cannabis can be prescribed for, the amount that can be sold and the process for issuing medical marijuana licenses.\n\n## What does federal law say about marijuana?\nDespite the president's order, the [Drug Enforcement Agency](https:\/\/www.dea.gov\/drug-information\/drug-scheduling#:~:text=Schedule%20I%20drugs%2C%20substances%2C%20or,\\)%2C%20methaqualone%2C%20and%20peyote. \"(opens in a new window)\") still classifies cannabis as a Schedule I drug under the Controlled Substances Act of 1970, \"with no currently accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse.\"\n\nOther Schedule I drugs include heroin and LSD, while cocaine is listed as a Schedule II drug.\n\nIn 2013, President Barack Obama [directed the Justice Department](https:\/\/www.justice.gov\/opa\/pr\/justice-department-announces-update-marijuana-enforcement-policy \"(opens in a new window)\") to defer to state authorities in jurisdictions that had legalized marijuana, \"based on assurances that those states will impose an appropriately strict regulatory system.\"\n\nKnown as the [Cole Memo](https:\/\/www.justice.gov\/opa\/pr\/justice-department-announces-update-marijuana-enforcement-policy \"(opens in a new window)\"), this guidance was rescinded in 2018 by Jeff Sessions, attorney general under President Donald Trump. Marijuana legalization advocates have encouraged Biden to direct current Attorney General Merrick Garland to reinstate the Cole Memo.\n\n## How do Americans feel about legalizing weed?\nAccording to a [2021 Pew Research poll](https:\/\/www.pewresearch.org\/fact-tank\/2021\/04\/16\/americans-overwhelmingly-say-marijuana-should-be-legal-for-recreational-or-medical-use\/ \"(opens in a new window)\"), 91% of Americans believe cannabis should be legalized to some degree -- 31% for medical use only and 60% for both medical and recreational use. (Only 8% of respondents said marijuana should not be legal at all.)\n\nSome 16% percent of Americans smoke pot, according to an August 2022 [Gallup poll](https:\/\/news.gallup.com\/poll\/396893\/americans-not-convinced-marijuana-benefits-society.aspx \"(opens in a new window)\"), which is more than the [11% of US adults](https:\/\/news.gallup.com\/poll\/1717\/tobacco-smoking.aspx \"(opens in a new window)\") who smoke cigarettes.\n\nGallup's research also found that nearly half (46%) of American adults say they've tried marijuana, despite it being registered as a Schedule I controlled substance by the federal government.\n\n## President Biden on legalizing marijuana\n![Biden press conference](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/images\/logos\/cnet_load.png)\n\nWhile campaigning for president, Joe Biden said he supported leaving regulation of recreational marijuana to individual states.\n\nScreenshot by Corinne Reichert\/CNET\n\nDuring his 2020 presidential campaign, then-candidate Biden promised to \"[decriminalize cannabis use](https:\/\/www.timesrepublican.com\/opinion\/columnists\/2022\/01\/its-time-for-biden-to-keep-his-promises-on-marijuana\/ \"(opens in a new window)\") and automatically expunge prior convictions.\"\n\nIf elected president, Biden said, he would \"support the legalization of cannabis for medical purposes, leave decisions regarding legalization for recreational use up to the states, and reschedule cannabis as a Schedule II drug so researchers can study its positive and negative impacts,\" according to his [campaign website](https:\/\/joebiden.com\/justice\/ \"(opens in a new window)\"),\n\nThough the president can't repeal federal marijuana laws, Biden issued an executive order in October 2022 granting a pardon to anyone with a federal conviction for simple marijuana possession. He also directed the Department of Health and Human Services and Attorney General Merrick Garland to review whether marijuana should remain listed as a Schedule I substance.\n\n## What's the difference between legalization and decriminalization?\nMany states that have legalized marijuana initially decriminalized possession of a small amount. Broadly speaking, cannabis \"legalization\" means passing laws that allow the buying, selling and possessing of marijuana, usually with restrictions on the age of the consumer and the amount purchased.\n\nDecriminalization, on the other hand, typically means that violating certain marijuana laws can still result in fines or other penalties but not criminal charges or jail time.\n\nIn North Carolina, possession of half an ounce of marijuana or less is considered a [Class 3 misdemeanor](https:\/\/www.ncleg.net\/EnactedLegislation\/Statutes\/HTML\/ByArticle\/Chapter_90\/Article_5.html \"(opens in a new window)\") punishable by a \\$200 fine, \"but any sentence of imprisonment imposed must be suspended.\"\n\n[In Nebraska](https:\/\/nebraskalegislature.gov\/laws\/statutes.php?statute=28-416 \"(opens in a new window)\"), the first-offense possession of an ounce or less is punishable by a maximum fine of \\$300 and a possible requirement to complete a drug education course. A second conviction is considered a misdemeanor, punishable by a maximum fine of \\$500. Subsequent convictions are also misdemeanors, punishable by a maximum fine of \\$500 and up to seven days in jail.\n\n## Marijuana legalization efforts in Congress\n![us-capitol-building.jpg](https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/images\/logos\/cnet_load.png)\n\nA measure abolishing federal criminal penalties for those growing, possessing or distributing cannabis passed the House in April 2022.\n\nMarguerite Reardon\/CNET\n\nAs more states legalize medical and recreational marijuana, an increasing number of lawmakers want to square up federal laws so they don't conflict with state regulations. A number of bills introduced in both the House and Senate would address various aspects of marijuana legalization, from the criminal to the financial.\n\n**The Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act**  \n Now with the Senate, the [Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act](https:\/\/www.democrats.senate.gov\/imo\/media\/doc\/CAOA%20Detailed%20Summary%20-.pdf \"(opens in a new window)\"), or CAOA, would end the federal ban on cannabis and give state-compliant cannabis businesses access to financial services like bank accounts, business loans and credit card transactions.\n\nThe 296-page bill also addresses a federally mandated impaired-driving standard, cannabis industry workers' rights, and penalties for possessing or distributing large amounts of cannabis without a permit, Marijuana Moment [reported](https:\/\/www.marijuanamoment.net\/senate-bill-to-federally-legalize-marijuana-and-promote-social-equity-finally-filed-by-schumer-booker-and-wyden\/ \"(opens in a new window)\").\n\n\"Hundreds of millions of Americans live in states that have legalized cannabis in some form while it remains illegal at the federal level,\" Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, along with fellow Democrats Sen. Ron Wyden and Sen. Cory Booker, wrote in a February letter calling for input from fellow lawmakers.\n\nThat discrepancy \"breeds confusion and uncertainty,\" they said -- and raises numerous questions in areas from small-business growth to public safety. Advocates of legalization hope the bill will get a vote this session, while the Democrats still hold the Senate.\n\n\"McConnell would never bring these things to the floor,\" Schumer said last year, referring to Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, [according to Politico](https:\/\/www.politico.com\/news\/2022\/07\/21\/schumer-legal-weed-bill-00047058 \"(opens in a new window)\"). \"We'll move forward and try to get this done as soon as we possibly can.\n\n**The MORE Act**  \n A separate bill, the [Marijuana Opportunity and Reinvestment Expungement Act](https:\/\/www.govinfo.gov\/app\/details\/BILLS-117hr3617eh#:~:text=An%20Act%20To%20decriminalize%20and,offenses%2C%20and%20for%20other%20purposes. \"(opens in a new window)\"), passed the House in April. It would also abolish federal criminal penalties for those growing, possessing or distributing cannabis and expunge nonviolent cannabis convictions.\n\nThe MORE Act institutes a tax on cannabis to help communities impacted by decades of policing focused on nonviolent crimes related to marijuana use. The money would pay for programs such as job training, legal aid and youth mentoring.\n\nIt wouldn't require states to legalize cannabis, however. Regulation would be left up to state lawmakers.\n\nThe MORE Act originally passed the House in December 2020 -- the first time either chamber approved repealing federal marijuana prohibition -- but a matching bill in the Senate wasn't taken up for consideration.\n\n**Other cannabis legislation** On Feb. 4, 2022, the House passed the [Secure and Fair Enforcement Banking Act,](https:\/\/www.congress.gov\/bill\/117th-congress\/house-bill\/1996#:~:text=This%20bill%20generally%20prohibits%20a,a%20legitimate%20cannabis-related%20business. \"(opens in a new window)\") which would grant state-licensed marijuana businesses access to financial services. On Oct. 30, Schumer said the Senate [was \"very close\"](https:\/\/www.proactiveinvestors.com\/companies\/news\/996900\/cannabis-msos-rocket-after-schumer-says-congress-is-very-close-to-passing-safe-cannabis-banking-legislation-996900.html \"(opens in a new window)\") to passing the legislation.\n\nIn late March, the Senate unanimously approved the Cannabidiol and Marihuana Research Expansion Act, which would streamline the application process for researchers who want to study the medicinal value of cannabis and related products.\n\n\"This important legislation will cut the red tape around the research process, helping get FDA-approved, marijuana-derived medications safely to patients,\" Sen. Dianne Feinstein, a Democrat from California and a sponsor of the bill, [said in a March 24 statement](https:\/\/www.feinstein.senate.gov\/public\/index.cfm\/press-releases?id=7A3020FD-4E3B-46E5-83E9-89BF12450C96 \"(opens in a new window)\").","meta_canonical":null}

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Meta Title	Where Is Marijuana Legal? Cannabis Laws in Every State - CNET
Meta Description	Minnesota is now the 23rd state to legalize recreational marijuana for adults over 21.
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Boilerpipe Text	Minnesota is the 23rd state to legalize the recreational use of cannabis, which is still considered a Schedule I drug by the federal government. Rex Wholster/Getty Images On May 30, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz signed a bill legalizing recreational marijuana, making it the 23rd state to do so. "We've known for too long that prohibiting the use of cannabis hasn't worked," Walz, a member of the Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party, said in a statement . "By legalizing adult-use cannabis, we're expanding our economy, creating jobs, and regulating the industry to keep Minnesotans safe." HF 100 allows adults over 21 to possess up to two pounds of cannabis at home and two ounces in public. lt also establishes a 10% tax on recreational cannabis and calls for the expungement or resentencing of cannabis-related convictions. The law is slated to go into effect Aug. 1, though retail dispensaries aren't expected to open until sometime next year, according to the Associated Press. Medical marijuana was legalized in Minnesota in 2014. Here's what to know about marijuana in the US, including which states have legalized it, what's happening on the federal level and how Americans feel about pot. Which states have legalized recreational marijuana? Minnesota is the 23rd state to legalize the adult use of marijuana for recreational purposes, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures. The other states are Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri, Montana, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Nevada, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia and Washington. Adult-use marijuana is also legal in the District of Columbia, Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands. What states have legalized medical marijuana? As of May 2023, 37 states have legalized the medical use of cannabis to varying degrees: Alaska, Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Hawaii, Illinois, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington and West Virginia. In addition, all states with adult-use laws -- as well as the District of Columbia and the territories of Puerto Rico, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands and the US Virgin Islands -- have legalized medical marijuana. Each jurisdiction has its own criteria regarding what conditions cannabis can be prescribed for, the amount that can be sold and the process for issuing medical marijuana licenses. What does federal law say about marijuana? Despite the president's order, the Drug Enforcement Agency still classifies cannabis as a Schedule I drug under the Controlled Substances Act of 1970, "with no currently accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse." Other Schedule I drugs include heroin and LSD, while cocaine is listed as a Schedule II drug. In 2013, President Barack Obama directed the Justice Department to defer to state authorities in jurisdictions that had legalized marijuana, "based on assurances that those states will impose an appropriately strict regulatory system." Known as the Cole Memo , this guidance was rescinded in 2018 by Jeff Sessions, attorney general under President Donald Trump. Marijuana legalization advocates have encouraged Biden to direct current Attorney General Merrick Garland to reinstate the Cole Memo. How do Americans feel about legalizing weed? According to a 2021 Pew Research poll , 91% of Americans believe cannabis should be legalized to some degree -- 31% for medical use only and 60% for both medical and recreational use. (Only 8% of respondents said marijuana should not be legal at all.) Some 16% percent of Americans smoke pot, according to an August 2022 Gallup poll , which is more than the 11% of US adults who smoke cigarettes. Gallup's research also found that nearly half (46%) of American adults say they've tried marijuana, despite it being registered as a Schedule I controlled substance by the federal government. President Biden on legalizing marijuana While campaigning for president, Joe Biden said he supported leaving regulation of recreational marijuana to individual states. Screenshot by Corinne Reichert/CNET During his 2020 presidential campaign, then-candidate Biden promised to " decriminalize cannabis use and automatically expunge prior convictions." If elected president, Biden said, he would "support the legalization of cannabis for medical purposes, leave decisions regarding legalization for recreational use up to the states, and reschedule cannabis as a Schedule II drug so researchers can study its positive and negative impacts," according to his campaign website , Though the president can't repeal federal marijuana laws, Biden issued an executive order in October 2022 granting a pardon to anyone with a federal conviction for simple marijuana possession. He also directed the Department of Health and Human Services and Attorney General Merrick Garland to review whether marijuana should remain listed as a Schedule I substance. What's the difference between legalization and decriminalization? Many states that have legalized marijuana initially decriminalized possession of a small amount. Broadly speaking, cannabis "legalization" means passing laws that allow the buying, selling and possessing of marijuana, usually with restrictions on the age of the consumer and the amount purchased. Decriminalization, on the other hand, typically means that violating certain marijuana laws can still result in fines or other penalties but not criminal charges or jail time. In North Carolina, possession of half an ounce of marijuana or less is considered a Class 3 misdemeanor punishable by a $200 fine, "but any sentence of imprisonment imposed must be suspended." In Nebraska , the first-offense possession of an ounce or less is punishable by a maximum fine of $300 and a possible requirement to complete a drug education course. A second conviction is considered a misdemeanor, punishable by a maximum fine of $500. Subsequent convictions are also misdemeanors, punishable by a maximum fine of $500 and up to seven days in jail. Marijuana legalization efforts in Congress A measure abolishing federal criminal penalties for those growing, possessing or distributing cannabis passed the House in April 2022. Marguerite Reardon/CNET As more states legalize medical and recreational marijuana, an increasing number of lawmakers want to square up federal laws so they don't conflict with state regulations. A number of bills introduced in both the House and Senate would address various aspects of marijuana legalization, from the criminal to the financial. The Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act Now with the Senate, the Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act , or CAOA, would end the federal ban on cannabis and give state-compliant cannabis businesses access to financial services like bank accounts, business loans and credit card transactions. The 296-page bill also addresses a federally mandated impaired-driving standard, cannabis industry workers' rights, and penalties for possessing or distributing large amounts of cannabis without a permit, Marijuana Moment reported . "Hundreds of millions of Americans live in states that have legalized cannabis in some form while it remains illegal at the federal level," Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, along with fellow Democrats Sen. Ron Wyden and Sen. Cory Booker, wrote in a February letter calling for input from fellow lawmakers. That discrepancy "breeds confusion and uncertainty," they said -- and raises numerous questions in areas from small-business growth to public safety. Advocates of legalization hope the bill will get a vote this session, while the Democrats still hold the Senate. "McConnell would never bring these things to the floor," Schumer said last year, referring to Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, according to Politico . "We'll move forward and try to get this done as soon as we possibly can. The MORE Act A separate bill, the Marijuana Opportunity and Reinvestment Expungement Act , passed the House in April. It would also abolish federal criminal penalties for those growing, possessing or distributing cannabis and expunge nonviolent cannabis convictions. The MORE Act institutes a tax on cannabis to help communities impacted by decades of policing focused on nonviolent crimes related to marijuana use. The money would pay for programs such as job training, legal aid and youth mentoring. It wouldn't require states to legalize cannabis, however. Regulation would be left up to state lawmakers. The MORE Act originally passed the House in December 2020 -- the first time either chamber approved repealing federal marijuana prohibition -- but a matching bill in the Senate wasn't taken up for consideration. Other cannabis legislation On Feb. 4, 2022, the House passed the Secure and Fair Enforcement Banking Act, which would grant state-licensed marijuana businesses access to financial services. On Oct. 30, Schumer said the Senate was "very close" to passing the legislation. In late March, the Senate unanimously approved the Cannabidiol and Marihuana Research Expansion Act, which would streamline the application process for researchers who want to study the medicinal value of cannabis and related products. "This important legislation will cut the red tape around the research process, helping get FDA-approved, marijuana-derived medications safely to patients," Sen. Dianne Feinstein, a Democrat from California and a sponsor of the bill, said in a March 24 statement .
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[Explore all](https://www.cnet.com/deals/) [Best VPN Deals](https://www.cnet.com/deals/best-vpn-deals/) [Best Gifts Under \$300](https://www.cnet.com/gifts/best-gifts-under-300/) Apple Deals - [iPad](https://www.cnet.com/deals/best-ipad-deals/) - [MacBook](https://www.cnet.com/deals/best-macbook-deals/) - [AirPods](https://www.cnet.com/deals/best-apple-airpods-deals/) - [iPhone](https://www.cnet.com/deals/best-iphone-deals/) TV & Audio Deals - [TV](https://www.cnet.com/deals/best-tv-deals/) - [Roku](https://www.cnet.com/deals/best-roku-device-deals/) - [Sonos](https://www.cnet.com/deals/best-sonos-deals/) - [Streaming](https://www.cnet.com/deals/best-streaming-service-deals-for-peacock-hulu-starz-and-more/) Gaming Deals - [Xbox](https://www.cnet.com/deals/best-xbox-deals/) - [PS5](https://www.cnet.com/deals/best-playstation-deals/) - [Nintendo Switch](https://www.cnet.com/deals/best-nintendo-switch-deals/) - [Gaming PCs](https://www.cnet.com/deals/best-gaming-pc-deals/) Back Home Give your home an upgrade or snag some everyday essentials without breaking the bank. [Explore all](https://www.cnet.com/deals/) [Best Electric Lawn Mower Deals](https://www.cnet.com/deals/best-electric-lawnmower-deals/) Smart Home Deals - [Smart Home](https://www.cnet.com/deals/best-smart-home-deals/) - [Home Security](https://www.cnet.com/deals/best-home-security-camera-deals/) - [Robot Vacuum](https://www.cnet.com/deals/best-vacuum-deals-right-now-dyson-bissell-roomba-and-more/) - [Smart Thermostat](https://www.cnet.com/deals/best-smart-thermostat-deals/) Equipment Deals - [Portable ACs](https://www.cnet.com/deals/best-portable-air-conditioner-deals/) - [Generators](https://www.cnet.com/deals/best-generator-deals/) - [Electric Lawnmowers](https://www.cnet.com/deals/best-electric-lawnmower-deals/) - [Air Purifiers](https://www.cnet.com/deals/best-air-purifier-deals/) Kitchen Deals - [Coffee Makers](https://www.cnet.com/deals/best-coffee-maker-deals/) - [Keurig](https://www.cnet.com/deals/best-keurig-deals/) - [Air Fryers](https://www.cnet.com/deals/best-air-fryer-deals/) Back Wellness Focus on you with these health and wellness savings. [Explore all](https://www.cnet.com/deals/) [Best Mattress Deals](https://www.cnet.com/deals/best-mattress-deals/) Fitness Gifts - [Fitness Deals & Gifts](https://www.cnet.com/deals/best-fitness-deals/) - [Fitbit](https://www.cnet.com/deals/best-fitbit-deals/) - [Garmin](https://www.cnet.com/deals/best-garmin-deals/) - [Meal Delivery Kit](https://www.cnet.com/deals/best-meal-delivery-deals/) - [Glasses and Contacts](https://www.cnet.com/deals/best-online-glasses-and-contacts-deals/) Back Gift Guides Discover the perfect gift for every occasion. [Explore all](https://www.cnet.com/gifts/) [100 Days of Holiday](https://www.cnet.com/gifts/) [DIY Father's Day Gifts](https://www.cnet.com/home/kitchen-and-household/best-fathers-day-gifts-for-diy-dads/) - [Under \$100](https://www.cnet.com/tech/best-tech-gifts-for-100-or-less/) - [Under \$50](https://www.cnet.com/tech/computing/best-gifts-for-50-or-less/) - [Hottest Toys](https://www.cnet.com/culture/entertainment/hottest-toys/) - [Online Flower Delivery Services](https://www.cnet.com/home/kitchen-and-household/best-flower-delivery-service/) - [Gaming](https://www.cnet.com/tech/gaming/best-gaming-gifts/) - [Tweens](https://www.cnet.com/culture/fashion/best-gifts-for-tweens/) - [Available on Amazon](https://www.cnet.com/tech/best-gifts-available-from-amazon/) - [People Who Already Have It All](https://www.cnet.com/home/gifts-for-people-who-have-everything/) - [Gift Baskets](https://www.cnet.com/home/kitchen-and-household/best-gift-baskets/) Back Cover Stories These deep dives offer unique and expert perspectives on tech and other topics that matter most in our daily lives. [Explore all](https://www.cnet.com/feature/cover-stories/) [We're Hooked on Satellites. It Could Blow Up in Our Faces](https://www.cnet.com/science/space/features/satellite-overcrowding-space-junk-low-earth-orbit-starlink/) [Getting Older Messed With My Gaming. So I Changed How I Play](https://www.cnet.com/tech/gaming/features/handheld-gaming-consoles-aging-gamers-windows-steam-switch-legion/) [AI Slop Is Destroying the Internet. These Are the People Fighting to Save It](https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/features/ai-slop-is-destroying-the-internet-these-are-the-people-fighting-to-save-it/) [PDAs, Tube TVs and \$13,000 VCRs: How CES Jump-Starts the Tech of Tomorrow](https://www.cnet.com/tech/home-entertainment/features/back-to-the-tech-future-the-history-of-ces-in-four-iconic-gadgets/) [Yes, Electric Cars Are Good in Winter, and I Drove in the Arctic to Prove It](https://www.cnet.com/home/electric-vehicles/features/how-good-are-evs-in-the-cold-i-drove-in-the-arctic-to-find-out/) [Smart Glasses Are Coming for Your Face, With Wild Options for 2026](https://www.cnet.com/tech/computing/features/smart-glasses-revolution-whats-coming-meta-ray-bans-and-beyond/) Back Gift Guides Our gifting experts are obsessively searching for holiday gifts that are unique, thoughtful and suitable for any budget. [Explore all](https://www.cnet.com/gifts/) Best Tech Gifts - [39 of the Best Tech Gifts Under \$100 for 2026](https://www.cnet.com/gifts/best-tech-gifts-under-100/) - [Best Gifts for Gamers in 2026](https://www.cnet.com/gifts/best-gifts-for-gamers/) - [Best Travel Tech Gifts: Must-Haves for the Journey and the Destination](https://www.cnet.com/gifts/best-travel-tech-gifts/) Gifts For Kids - [Best Toys for Kids in 2026](https://www.cnet.com/gifts/best-toys-for-kids/) - [36 Best Gifts for Teens in 2026](https://www.cnet.com/gifts/best-gifts-for-teens/) - [24 of the Best Gifts for Tweens in 2026](https://www.cnet.com/gifts/best-gifts-for-tweens/) Gifts For Everyone - [The 23 Best Luxury Gifts Our Editors Say Are Worth Every Penny](https://www.cnet.com/gifts/best-luxury-gifts/) - [Best Gifts Available on Amazon: From \$10 to \$250](https://www.cnet.com/gifts/best-gifts-available-on-amazon/) - [34 Unique Gifts for People Who Have Everything](https://www.cnet.com/gifts/gifts-for-people-who-have-everything/) Back Gift Guide Our gifting experts are obsessively searching for holiday gifts that are unique, thoughtful and suitable for any budget. [Explore all](https://www.cnet.com/gifts/) Best Tech Gifts - [39 of the Best Tech Gifts Under \$100 for 2026](https://www.cnet.com/gifts/best-tech-gifts-under-100/) - [Best Gifts for Gamers in 2026](https://www.cnet.com/gifts/best-gifts-for-gamers/) - [Best Travel Tech Gifts: Must-Haves for the Journey and the Destination](https://www.cnet.com/gifts/best-travel-tech-gifts/) Gifts For Kids - [Best Toys for Kids in 2026](https://www.cnet.com/gifts/best-toys-for-kids/) - [36 Best Gifts for Teens in 2026](https://www.cnet.com/gifts/best-gifts-for-teens/) - [24 of the Best Gifts for Tweens in 2026](https://www.cnet.com/gifts/best-gifts-for-tweens/) Gifts For Everyone - [The 23 Best Luxury Gifts Our Editors Say Are Worth Every Penny](https://www.cnet.com/gifts/best-luxury-gifts/) - [Best Gifts Available on Amazon: From \$10 to \$250](https://www.cnet.com/gifts/best-gifts-available-on-amazon/) - [34 Unique Gifts for People Who Have Everything](https://www.cnet.com/gifts/gifts-for-people-who-have-everything/) Back AI Stay up to date on developments in the rapidly evolving world of AI with AI Atlas. [Explore all](https://www.cnet.com/ai-atlas/) AI News - [iPhone 16E AI](https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/these-6-apple-intelligence-features-prove-that-apples-ai-tech-is-useful-now/) - [Apple Intelligence Reboot](https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/apple-reportedly-planning-ai-comeback-complete-with-a-tabletop-robot/) - [Galaxy S25 AI](https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/my-first-48-hours-with-the-galaxy-s25-ultra-has-me-in-awe/) - [ChatGPT Image Gen](https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/chatgpts-gpus-are-melting-as-people-make-studio-ghibli-esque-ai-images/) AI Reviews - [Best AI Image Generators](https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/best-ai-image-generators/) - [ChatGPT Free vs. Plus](https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/heres-what-we-thought-of-chatgpt-free-vs-chatgpt-plus-back-in-2024/) - [Google Gemini](https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/what-is-gemini-everything-you-should-know-about-googles-ai-tool/) - [Microsoft Copilot](https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/microsoft-copilot-chatbot-review-bing-is-my-default-search-engine-now/) - [Best AI Chatbots](https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/best-ai-chatbots/) - [Best AI Website Builders](https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/best-ai-website-builder/) - [ChatGPT vs Gemini](https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/chatgpt-vs-google-gemini/) AI Guides - [How to Detect AI](https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/how-to-detect-ai-writing-using-these-tips/) - [What is an LLM](https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/llms-and-ai-arent-the-same-everything-you-should-know-about-whats-behind-chatbots/) - [AI Resume Writing](https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/how-to-write-a-resume-using-chatgpt/) - [ChatGPT Glossary](https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/chatgpt-glossary/) Back VPN VPN reviews and guides from our experts to help you boost your online privacy. [Explore all](https://www.cnet.com/tech/vpn/) Best VPNs - [Best VPN](https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/best-vpn/) - [iPhone](https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/best-vpn-for-iphone/) - [Free](https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/best-free-vpn/) - [Amazon Fire Stick](https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/best-vpn-for-firestick/) - [Mobile](https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/best-mobile-vpn/) - [Streaming](https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/best-vpn-for-streaming/) - [VPN Deals](https://www.cnet.com/deals/best-vpn-deals/) VPN Reviews - [ExpressVPN](https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/expressvpn-review/) - [Surfshark](https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/surfshark-vpn-review/) - [NordVPN](https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/nordvpn-review/) - [NordVPN vs. ExpressVPN](https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/expressvpn-vs-nordvpn/) Back Phones Expert reviews and insightful guides on the latest phones to help you find the perfect device for your needs. [Explore all](https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/phones/) Best Phones - [Best Overall Phones](https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/best-phone/) - [iPhone](https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/best-iphone/) - [Android](https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/best-android-phone/) - [iPhone Deals](https://www.cnet.com/deals/best-iphone-16-deals/) Best Phone Plans - [Family Plans](https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/best-family-phone-plan/) - [Cellphone Plans](https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/best-phone-plans/) - [Unlimited Plans](https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/best-unlimited-data-plan/) Phone Reviews - [Galaxy S25 Ultra](https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/galaxy-s25-ultra-review-greatest-phone-screen-ever-and-lets-not-talk-about-the-ai/) - [iPhone 16 Pro](https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/apple-iphone-16-pro-and-pro-max-review-compelling-upgrade-with-my-favorite-iphone-feature-in-years/) - [iPhone 16 Cases](https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/best-iphone-16-and-iphone-16-pro-cases/) Back Laptops Guides from our experts to help you find the best laptop for your specific needs. [Explore all](https://www.cnet.com/tech/computing/laptops/) Best Laptops - [Best Laptop](https://www.cnet.com/tech/computing/best-laptop/) - [School Laptop](https://www.cnet.com/tech/computing/best-laptop-for-college/) - [Macbook](https://www.cnet.com/tech/computing/best-macbook/) - [Windows](https://www.cnet.com/tech/computing/best-windows-laptop/) - [Battery Life](https://www.cnet.com/tech/computing/best-battery-life-laptop/) - [Lightweight](https://www.cnet.com/tech/computing/best-lightweight-laptop/) - [Gaming](https://www.cnet.com/tech/computing/best-gaming-laptop/) - [Budget](https://www.cnet.com/tech/computing/best-budget-laptop/) - [Monitors](https://www.cnet.com/tech/computing/best-monitor/) Laptop Guides - [Chromebook vs. Laptop](https://www.cnet.com/tech/computing/chromebook-vs-laptop-whats-the-difference/) - [MacBook Air vs. MacBook Pro](https://www.cnet.com/tech/computing/macbook-air-vs-macbook-pro-which-macbook-should-i-buy/) - [Laptop Deals](https://www.cnet.com/deals/best-laptop-deals/) Back Audio The best of our audio guides to help you make the most of your listening experience. [Explore all](https://www.cnet.com/tech/home-entertainment/audio/) Best Earbuds - [Wireless](https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/best-wireless-earbuds/) - [Budget](https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/best-cheap-budget-wireless-earbuds/) - [Noise-Canceling](https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/best-noise-canceling-wireless-earbuds/) Best Headphones - [Best Overall Headphones](https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/best-headphones/) - [Noise Canceling](https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/best-noise-canceling-headphones/) - [Work from Home](https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/best-headphones-for-work-at-home/) Best Speakers - [Bluetooth](https://www.cnet.com/tech/home-entertainment/best-bluetooth-speaker/) - [Record Players](https://www.cnet.com/tech/home-entertainment/best-record-player-and-turntable/) - [AV Receivers](https://www.cnet.com/tech/home-entertainment/best-av-receiver/) Back TV We'll help you make your entertainment as good as the movies. [Explore all](https://www.cnet.com/tech/home-entertainment/tvs/) Best TVs - [Best Overall TVs](https://www.cnet.com/tech/home-entertainment/best-tv/) - [65-inch](https://www.cnet.com/tech/home-entertainment/best-65-inch-tv/) - [75-inch](https://www.cnet.com/tech/home-entertainment/best-75-inch-tv/) - [Budget](https://www.cnet.com/tech/home-entertainment/best-budget-tv/) - [TV Deals](https://www.cnet.com/deals/best-tv-deals/) - [QLED vs. OLED](https://www.cnet.com/tech/home-entertainment/qled-vs-oled-whats-better/) TV Accessories - [Best Projectors](https://www.cnet.com/tech/home-entertainment/best-projector/) - [Best TV Antenna](https://www.cnet.com/tech/home-entertainment/best-indoor-tv-antenna/) TV Streaming Devices - [Best Streaming Device](https://www.cnet.com/tech/home-entertainment/best-streaming-device/) - [Best Fire TV Stick](https://www.cnet.com/tech/home-entertainment/best-fire-tv-stick/) Back Services & Software All the news and tips you need to get the most out of services, apps and software you use every day. [Explore all](https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/) Services and Software - [Best Antivirus Software](https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/best-antivirus/) - [Best Password Manager](https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/best-password-manager/) - [Extra 15GB Gmail Storage](https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/gmail-inbox-zero-15gb-free-storage-space/) iOS Tips - [Settings to Change](https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/not-ready-for-ios-26-10-ios-18-settings-to-tweak-asap/) - [How to Clear Your Cache](https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/iphone-browser-clear-cache/) - [Hidden Features](https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/11-hidden-ios-18-5-features-i-love/) Web Hosting - [Minecraft Server](https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/best-minecraft-server-hosting/) - [Best Web Hosting Services](https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/best-web-hosting/) - [Best Cheap Web Hosting](https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/best-cheap-web-hosting/) Back Computers What you need for work and play, and how to get the most out of it. [Explore all](https://www.cnet.com/tech/computing/desktops/) Best Computers - [Desktop Computer](https://www.cnet.com/tech/computing/best-desktop-computer/) - [Gaming PC](https://www.cnet.com/tech/computing/best-gaming-pc/) - [iMac Deals](https://www.cnet.com/deals/best-imac-deals/) Best Tablets - [Best Overall Tablet](https://www.cnet.com/tech/computing/best-tablet/) - [Best iPad](https://www.cnet.com/tech/computing/best-ipad/) - [E Ink Tablets](https://www.cnet.com/tech/computing/best-e-ink-tablets/) - [iPad Pro Deals](https://www.cnet.com/deals/best-ipad-pro-deals/) Computer Tips - [Recycle Old Tech](https://www.cnet.com/tech/computing/where-to-recycle-your-old-pc-laptop-and-printer-for-free/) - [Windows on Mac](https://www.cnet.com/tech/computing/how-to-run-windows-from-your-mac/) Back Home Security Practical advice on keeping your home safe and secure. [Explore all](https://www.cnet.com/home/security/) Best Home Security Cameras - [Best Overall Security Camera](https://www.cnet.com/home/security/best-home-security-camera/) - [Outdoor](https://www.cnet.com/home/security/best-outdoor-home-security-cameras/) - [With No Subscription](https://www.cnet.com/home/security/best-home-security-cameras-without-subscriptions/) - [Wireless](https://www.cnet.com/home/security/best-wireless-home-security-cameras/) Best Security Systems - [Best Overall Security System](https://www.cnet.com/home/security/best-home-security-system/) - [DIY Security System](https://www.cnet.com/home/security/best-diy-home-security-systems/) Best Security Products - [Ring Video Doorbell](https://www.cnet.com/home/security/best-ring-video-doorbells/) - [Smoke Detectors](https://www.cnet.com/home/security/best-smoke-detector/) - [Smart Locks](https://www.cnet.com/home/security/best-smart-locks/) - [Video Doorbells](https://www.cnet.com/home/security/best-video-doorbell-cameras/) Back Smart Home Everything you need to know to build a smart home that works for you. [Explore all](https://www.cnet.com/home/smart-home/) Best in Smart Home - [Indoor Smart Garden](https://www.cnet.com/home/smart-home/best-indoor-garden/) - [HomeKit](https://www.cnet.com/home/smart-home/best-apple-homekit-siri-devices/) - [Smart Thermostats](https://www.cnet.com/home/energy-and-utilities/best-smart-thermostats/) - [Smart Garage Door Controller](https://www.cnet.com/home/smart-home/best-smart-garage-door-opener-controller/) - [Smart Plugs](https://www.cnet.com/home/smart-home/best-smart-plugs/) - [Smart Displays](https://www.cnet.com/home/smart-home/best-smart-displays/) - [Smart Home Devices](https://www.cnet.com/home/smart-home/best-smart-home-devices/) - [Smart Lights](https://www.cnet.com/home/kitchen-and-household/best-smart-lights/) - [Amazon Alexa](https://www.cnet.com/home/smart-home/best-alexa-devices/) - [Smart Home Deals](https://www.cnet.com/deals/best-smart-home-deals/) Best Electric Vehicles - [Best Overall EVs](https://www.cnet.com/home/electric-vehicles/best-ev-electric-car/) - [EV Chargers](https://www.cnet.com/home/electric-vehicles/best-ev-charger/) - [Budget](https://www.cnet.com/home/electric-vehicles/the-most-affordable-electric-cars/) Back Kitchen & Household From coffee makers to robot vacuums, we tackle what you need to know to keep your home running smoothly. [Explore all](https://www.cnet.com/home/kitchen-and-household/) Best in Home Tech - [Dishwashers](https://www.cnet.com/home/kitchen-and-household/best-dishwasher/) - [Car Vacuums](https://www.cnet.com/home/kitchen-and-household/best-car-vacuum/) - [Showerheads](https://www.cnet.com/home/kitchen-and-household/best-showerhead/) - [Air Purifiers](https://www.cnet.com/home/kitchen-and-household/best-air-purifier/) - [Cordless Vacuums](https://www.cnet.com/home/kitchen-and-household/best-cordless-vacuum/) - [Robot Vacuums](https://www.cnet.com/home/kitchen-and-household/best-robot-vacuum/) Best for Home Office - [Office Chairs](https://www.cnet.com/home/kitchen-and-household/best-office-chairs/) - [Standing Desks](https://www.cnet.com/home/kitchen-and-household/best-standing-desk/) - [Surge Protectors](https://www.cnet.com/home/kitchen-and-household/best-surge-protector/) - [Tower Fans](https://www.cnet.com/home/kitchen-and-household/best-tower-fans/) - [Dehumidifiers](https://www.cnet.com/home/kitchen-and-household/best-dehumidifier/) Best in the Kitchen - [Air Fryers](https://www.cnet.com/home/kitchen-and-household/best-air-fryer/) - [Bread Machines](https://www.cnet.com/home/kitchen-and-household/best-bread-machines/) - [Meat Thermometers](https://www.cnet.com/home/kitchen-and-household/best-meat-thermometers/) - [Nonstick Pans](https://www.cnet.com/home/kitchen-and-household/best-nonstick-pan/) Back Yard & Outdoors All the tools, gear and skills you need to keep your home's yard and outdoor spaces looking sharp. [Explore all](https://www.cnet.com/home/yard-and-outdoors/) Best in Yard & Outdoors - [Garden Hoses](https://www.cnet.com/home/yard-and-outdoors/best-garden-hoses/) - [Pressure Washers](https://www.cnet.com/home/yard-and-outdoors/best-pressure-washer/) - [Water Guns](https://www.cnet.com/home/yard-and-outdoors/best-water-guns/) - [Grills](https://www.cnet.com/home/yard-and-outdoors/best-grill/) - [Electric Lawn Mowers](https://www.cnet.com/home/yard-and-outdoors/best-electric-lawn-mower/) - [Solar Batteries](https://www.cnet.com/home/solar/best-solar-batteries/) - [Portable Power Stations](https://www.cnet.com/home/energy-and-utilities/best-portable-power-stations/) Back Home Internet We unpack everything you need to know about internet service. [Explore all](https://www.cnet.com/home/internet/) Internet Reviews - [Verizon 5G](https://www.cnet.com/home/internet/verizon-5g-home-internet-review/) - [T-Mobile 5G](https://www.cnet.com/home/internet/t-mobile-5g-home-internet-review/) - [Xfinity Internet](https://www.cnet.com/home/internet/xfinity-internet-review/) - [AT\&T Internet Air](https://www.cnet.com/home/internet/at-t-internet-air-review/) - [Starlink](https://www.cnet.com/home/internet/starlink-internet-review/) - [Best ISPs](https://www.cnet.com/home/internet/best-internet-providers/) Best Routers - [Best Overall Routers](https://www.cnet.com/home/internet/best-wi-fi-routers/) - [Gaming](https://www.cnet.com/home/internet/best-gaming-routers/) - [Wi-Fi Extenders](https://www.cnet.com/home/internet/best-wifi-extenders/) - [Mesh Wi-Fi Systems](https://www.cnet.com/home/internet/best-mesh-wifi-routers/) Top ISPs by Location - [Chicago, IL](https://www.cnet.com/home/internet/best-internet-providers-in-chicago-il/) - [San Francisco, CA](https://www.cnet.com/home/internet/best-internet-providers-in-san-francisco-ca/) - [Houston, TX](https://www.cnet.com/home/internet/best-internet-providers-in-houston-tx/) - [New York, NY](https://www.cnet.com/home/internet/best-internet-providers-in-new-york-ny/) Back Gaming Reviews, news and buying advice on console, PC, handheld and VR gaming. [Explore all](https://www.cnet.com/tech/gaming/) Nintendo Switch 2 - [How to Buy the Switch 2](https://www.cnet.com/deals/nintendo-switch-2-restock-tracker/) - [Switch 1 vs. Switch 2](https://www.cnet.com/tech/gaming/nintendo-switch-2-vs-switch-1-gamers-start-your-specs-breakdowns/) - [Switch Deals](https://www.cnet.com/deals/best-nintendo-switch-deals/) Best Games by Platform - [Nintendo Switch](https://www.cnet.com/tech/gaming/top-best-nintendo-switch-games/) - [PlayStation 5](https://www.cnet.com/tech/gaming/best-ps5-games/) - [Xbox](https://www.cnet.com/tech/gaming/best-xbox-games-for-xbox-one-series-x-s/) - [PC Games](https://www.cnet.com/tech/gaming/best-pc-games-right-now/) - [Mobile](https://www.cnet.com/tech/gaming/the-15-best-mobile-games-in-2025-top-iphone-and-android-games/) - [Virtual Reality](https://www.cnet.com/tech/gaming/best-vr-games/) Best Gaming Hardware - [VR Headsets](https://www.cnet.com/tech/gaming/best-vr-headset/) - [SSDs for PS5](https://www.cnet.com/tech/gaming/best-m2-ssd/) Best Gaming Deals - [PlayStation Plus](https://www.cnet.com/deals/best-playstation-plus-deals/) - [Xbox Game Pass](https://www.cnet.com/deals/best-xbox-game-pass-deals/) - [Free Xbox Game Pass](https://www.cnet.com/tech/gaming/how-to-get-xbox-game-pass-for-free/) - [Xbox Deals](https://www.cnet.com/deals/best-xbox-deals/) Back TV & Movies When and where to watch TV shows, movies, and live events on streaming services. [Explore all](https://www.cnet.com/tech/streaming-services/) What to Watch - [Best Shows This Week](https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/what-to-stream-on-tv-this-week-nonnas-poker-face-and-more/) - [Best Netflix Shows](https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/best-tv-shows-netflix/) - [Best Netflix Movies](https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/best-movies-on-netflix/) - [Best Max Shows](https://www.cnet.com/culture/entertainment/best-shows-to-watch-on-hbo-max/) - [Best Max Movies](https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/best-movies-to-watch-on-hbo-max/) - [Best Prime Video Shows](https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/best-shows-to-watch-on-prime-video/) - [Best Prime Video Horror Movies](https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/best-horror-movies-to-watch-on-prime-video/) - [Best Prime Video Sci-Fi Movies](https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/prime-video-best-sci-fi-movies/) - [Best Disney Plus Shows](https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/disney-plus-best-tv-shows-2026/) - [Best Apple TV Sci-Fi Shows](https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/best-apple-tv-plus-sci-fi-shows/) - [Best Hulu Horror Movies](https://www.cnet.com/culture/entertainment/best-horror-movies-on-hulu/) - [Best Peacock Shows](https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/best-shows-to-watch-on-peacock/) Back Streaming News, comparisons and advice to help you make sense of streaming. [Explore all](https://www.cnet.com/tech/streaming-services/) Best Streaming Services - [Best Overall Streaming Services](https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/best-streaming-service/) - [Free](https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/best-free-tv-streaming-services/) - [Live TV](https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/best-live-tv-streaming-service-for-cord-cutters/) - [4K Content](https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/best-streaming-services-for-4k-content/) - [Kids](https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/best-streaming-services-for-kids/) - [Music](https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/best-music-streaming-service/) - [Streaming Deals](https://www.cnet.com/deals/best-streaming-service-deals/) Streaming Service Reviews - [YouTube TV](https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/youtube-tv-review/) - [Hulu Plus Live TV](https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/hulu-plus-live-tv-review-for-cord-cutters-who-enjoy-premium-channels-perks/) - [Netflix](https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/netflix-review-our-top-pick-sea-streaming-choices/) - [Max](https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/max-streaming-service-review-loads-of-content-but-you-have-to-make-it-fit-you/) - [Youtube TV vs. Hulu Plus TV](https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/youtube-tv-vs-hulu-plus-live-tv-rated-the-pros-and-cons-of-each-streaming-service/) Back Sleep Our science-backed advice will help you sleep well every night. [Explore all](https://www.cnet.com/health/sleep/) Best Mattresses - [Best Overall](https://www.cnet.com/health/sleep/best-mattresses/) - [King](https://www.cnet.com/health/sleep/best-king-mattress/) - [Firm](https://www.cnet.com/health/sleep/best-firm-mattress/) - [Memory Foam](https://www.cnet.com/health/sleep/best-memory-foam-mattress/) - [Twin](https://www.cnet.com/health/sleep/best-twin-mattress/) - [Adjustable](https://www.cnet.com/health/sleep/best-adjustable-mattress/) - [Plus Size](https://www.cnet.com/health/sleep/best-mattress-for-heavy-people/) - [Side Sleepers](https://www.cnet.com/health/sleep/best-mattress-for-side-sleepers/) - [Air Mattresses](https://www.cnet.com/health/sleep/best-air-mattress/) Mattress Reviews - [Tempur-Pedic](https://www.cnet.com/health/sleep/tempurpedic-mattress-review/) - [DreamCloud](https://www.cnet.com/health/sleep/dreamcloud-mattress-review/) - [Nectar](https://www.cnet.com/health/sleep/nectar-mattress-review/) - [Beautyrest](https://www.cnet.com/health/sleep/beautyrest-mattress-review/) - [Helix](https://www.cnet.com/health/sleep/helix-mattress-reviews/) - [Purple](https://www.cnet.com/health/sleep/ive-tested-every-purple-mattress-here-are-my-thoughts-on-the-new-line/) - [Mattress Deals](https://www.cnet.com/deals/best-mattress-deals/) Best Sleep Products - [Cooling Comforters](https://www.cnet.com/health/sleep/best-cooling-comforters/) - [Cooling Mattress Toppers](https://www.cnet.com/health/sleep/best-cooling-mattress-toppers/) - [Earplugs for Sleeping](https://www.cnet.com/health/sleep/best-earplugs-for-sleeping/) - [Sleep Trackers](https://www.cnet.com/health/sleep/best-sleep-tracker/) - [Travel Pillows](https://www.cnet.com/health/sleep/best-travel-pillows/) - [Best Pillows](https://www.cnet.com/health/sleep/best-pillow/) - [Cooling Pillows](https://www.cnet.com/health/sleep/best-cooling-pillows/) - [Sleep Headphones](https://www.cnet.com/health/sleep/cnet-experts-8-favorite-sleep-headphones-in-2026/) Back Nutrition From plant-based meat to the latest diet trend, we help you eat healthy. [Explore all](https://www.cnet.com/health/nutrition/) Best Meal Kits - [Best Overall Meal Kit](https://www.cnet.com/health/nutrition/best-meal-kit-delivery-service/) - [Meal Delivery Deals](https://www.cnet.com/deals/best-meal-kit-and-meal-delivery-deals/) - [Vegan](https://www.cnet.com/health/nutrition/best-vegan-meal-delivery-services/) - [Healthy](https://www.cnet.com/health/nutrition/best-healthy-meal-delivery-service/) - [Meat Delivery](https://www.cnet.com/health/nutrition/best-meat-delivery-service/) - [Keto](https://www.cnet.com/health/nutrition/best-keto-meal-delivery/) - [Cheapest](https://www.cnet.com/health/nutrition/cheapest-meal-delivery-service/) Nutrition Tips - [Protein Visual Guide](https://www.cnet.com/health/nutrition/what-100-grams-protein-looks-like-plate-different-diets/) - [Meal Kits vs. Groceries](https://www.cnet.com/health/nutrition/meal-kits-have-gotten-cheap-but-are-they-cheaper-than-groceries/) - [Natural Sugar Substitutes](https://www.cnet.com/health/nutrition/the-6-best-natural-sugar-substitutes-want-cut-out-processed-white-sugar/) - [Apple Cider Vinegar](https://www.cnet.com/health/nutrition/apple-cider-vinegar-benefits-side-effects-dosage/) Back Fitness No matter your fitness goals, we've got the expert tips you need. [Explore all](https://www.cnet.com/health/fitness/) Best Fitness Equipment - [Peloton Alternatives](https://www.cnet.com/health/fitness/best-peloton-alternatives/) - [Smart Home Gyms](https://www.cnet.com/health/fitness/best-smart-home-gym/) - [Exercise Bikes](https://www.cnet.com/health/fitness/best-exercise-bike/) - [Treadmills](https://www.cnet.com/health/fitness/best-treadmills/) - [Ellipticals](https://www.cnet.com/health/fitness/best-elliptical/) Best Fitness Accessories - [Smart Scale](https://www.cnet.com/health/fitness/get-accurate-readings-with-the-best-smart-scales-for-your-bathroom/) - [Massage Guns](https://www.cnet.com/health/fitness/best-massage-gun/) - [Heart Rate Monitor](https://www.cnet.com/health/fitness/best-chest-strap-heart-rate-monitors/) Back Personal Care We share how to look and feel so fresh and clean. [Explore all](https://www.cnet.com/health/personal-care/) Best in Eyewear - [Replacement Rx Lenses](https://www.cnet.com/health/personal-care/best-places-to-buy-replacement-prescription-lenses/) - [Reading Glasses](https://www.cnet.com/health/personal-care/best-places-to-buy-reading-glasses-online/) - [OTC Eye Drops](https://www.cnet.com/health/personal-care/best-eye-drops/) - [Vitamins for Healthy Eyes](https://www.cnet.com/health/personal-care/supplements-best-nurturing-eyes-vision/) - [Online Glasses Stores](https://www.cnet.com/health/personal-care/best-places-to-buy-glasses-online/) - [Online Contact Lenses](https://www.cnet.com/health/personal-care/best-place-to-buy-contacts-online/) Best in Dental Care - [Electric Toothbrushes](https://www.cnet.com/health/personal-care/best-electric-toothbrush/) - [Teeth Whitening Strips](https://www.cnet.com/health/personal-care/best-teeth-whitening-strips/) - [Whitening Toothpaste](https://www.cnet.com/health/personal-care/best-whitening-toothpaste/) Back Money Get the latest news and share tips for making better decisions for your financial future. [Explore all](https://www.cnet.com/personal-finance/) Social Security - [Social Security Check Tracker](https://www.cnet.com/personal-finance/social-security-august-2025-the-next-round-of-payments-is-coming-soon/) - [Social Security Mistakes](https://www.cnet.com/personal-finance/dont-lose-your-social-security-benefits-these-mistakes-will-cost-you/) - [How to Maximize Social Security](https://www.cnet.com/personal-finance/social-security-2025-what-goes-into-determining-your-monthly-payment-and-how-to-maximize-it/) Best Finance Software - [Identity Theft Protection](https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/best-identity-theft-protection/) - [Tax Software](https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/best-tax-software-2026/) - [TurboTax Review](https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/turbotax-review-2026/) - [Free Tax Filing](https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/best-free-tax-software-2026/) - [Rocket Money Review](https://www.cnet.com/personal-finance/banking/rocket-money/) - [Zelle Limits](https://www.cnet.com/personal-finance/banking/zelle-limits-at-top-banks/) Back CNET Video Your video guide to the ever-changing tech world. [Explore all](https://www.cnet.com/videos/) - [Expert vs. AI: Is Now the Time to Buy an EV? - CNET](https://www.cnet.com/videos/expert-vs-ai-is-now-the-time-to-buy-an-ev/) - [The Real Reason to Upgrade to iPhone 16E (It's Not AI) - CNET](https://www.cnet.com/videos/the-real-reason-to-upgrade-to-iphone-16e-its-not-ai/) - [Watch Unitree's G1 Humanoid Robot Run in New Video - CNET](https://www.cnet.com/videos/watch-unitrees-g1-humanoid-robot-run-in-new-video/) - [iPhone SE 4 vs. iPhone 17 Air Rumors: Does Size Matter Over Cost? - CNET](https://www.cnet.com/videos/does-iphone-size-matter-iphone-se-4-vs-iphone-17-air-rumors/) Back Editors' Choice Our Editors' Choice awards represent the very best products and services our expert editors recommend. [Explore all](https://www.cnet.com/editors-choice/) - [Subscription Services](https://www.cnet.com/editors-choice/cnet-editors-choice-our-top-picks-in-subscription-services/) - [Energy Services](https://www.cnet.com/editors-choice/cnet-editors-choice-our-top-picks-in-energy-services/) - [Giftable Tech](https://www.cnet.com/editors-choice/cnet-editors-choice-our-top-picks-in-giftable-tech/) - [Money and Wellness](https://www.cnet.com/editors-choice/editors-choice-2024-money-and-wellness/) [The New White House App Poses a Security Threat](https://www.cnet.com/videos/the-new-white-house-app-poses-a-security-threat/) [The New White House App Poses a Security Threat](https://www.cnet.com/videos/the-new-white-house-app-poses-a-security-threat/) Click to unmute Video Player is loading. Play Video Pause Skip Backward Skip Forward Next playlist item Unmute Current Time 0:07 / Duration 0:43 Loaded: 100\.00% 0:07 ![]() Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind liveLIVE Remaining Time \-0:36 1x Playback Rate Chapters - Chapters Descriptions - descriptions off, selected Captions - captions settings, opens captions settings dialog - captions off, selected - en-US Share Audio Track - en-US (Main), selected Fullscreen This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color Opacity Text Background Color Opacity Caption Area Background Color Opacity Font Size Text Edge Style Font Family Reset Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Close Modal Dialog This is a modal window. This modal can be closed by pressing the Escape key or activating the close button. Close Modal Dialog This is a modal window. This modal can be closed by pressing the Escape key or activating the close button. Why You Can Trust CNET Money The editorial content on this page is based solely on objective, independent assessments by our writers and is not influenced by advertising or partnerships. It has not been provided or commissioned by any third party. However, we may receive compensation when you click on links to products or services offered by our partners. [Review CNET's ethics statement](https://www.cnet.com/tech/how-we-test-products-and-services/). - News - [Politics](https://www.cnet.com/news/politics/) # Where Is Marijuana Legal? Cannabis Laws in Every State Minnesota is now the 23rd state to legalize recreational marijuana for adults over 21. ![Headshot of Dan Avery](https://www.cnet.com/images/logos/cnet_load.png) ![Headshot of Dan Avery](https://www.cnet.com/images/logos/cnet_load.png) Dan Avery Former Writer Dan was a writer on CNET's How-To and Thought Leadership teams. His byline has appeared in The New York Times, Newsweek, NBC News, Architectural Digest and elsewhere. He is a crossword junkie and is interested in the intersection of tech and marginalized communities. Expertise Personal finance \\| Government and Policy \\| Consumer affairs [See full bio](https://www.cnet.com/profiles/daverydcny/) Dan Avery May 31, 2023 9:00 a.m. PT 6 min read ![state sign for Minnesota with cannabis leaf](https://www.cnet.com/images/logos/cnet_load.png) Minnesota is the 23rd state to legalize the recreational use of cannabis, which is still considered a Schedule I drug by the federal government. Rex Wholster/Getty Images On May 30, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz signed a bill legalizing recreational marijuana, making it the 23rd state to do so. "We've known for too long that prohibiting the use of cannabis hasn't worked," Walz, a member of the Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party, said [in a statement](https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/579413 "(opens in a new window)"). "By legalizing adult-use cannabis, we're expanding our economy, creating jobs, and regulating the industry to keep Minnesotans safe." [HF 100](https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=house&f=HF100&ssn=0&y=2023 "(opens in a new window)") allows adults over 21 to possess up to two pounds of cannabis at home and two ounces in public. lt also establishes a 10% tax on recreational cannabis and calls for the expungement or resentencing of cannabis-related convictions. The law is slated to go into effect Aug. 1, though retail dispensaries aren't expected to open until sometime next year, [according to](https://apnews.com/article/marijuana-legalization-recreational-minnesota-cannabis-31a77e46389fe3ed0472ddff672cf22f "(opens in a new window)") the Associated Press. Medical marijuana was legalized in Minnesota in 2014. Here's what to know about marijuana in the US, including which states have legalized it, what's happening on the federal level and how Americans feel about pot. ## Which states have legalized recreational marijuana? Minnesota is the 23rd state to legalize the adult use of marijuana for recreational purposes, [according to](https://www.ncsl.org/research/health/state-medical-marijuana-laws.aspx "(opens in a new window)") the National Conference of State Legislatures. The other states are Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri, Montana, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Nevada, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia and Washington. Adult-use marijuana is also legal in the District of Columbia, Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands. ## What states have legalized medical marijuana? As of May 2023, [37 states have legalized the medical use](https://ballotpedia.org/Marijuana_laws_and_ballot_measures_in_the_United_States "(opens in a new window)") of cannabis to varying degrees: Alaska, Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Hawaii, Illinois, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington and West Virginia. In addition, all states with adult-use laws -- as well as the District of Columbia and the territories of Puerto Rico, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands and the US Virgin Islands -- have legalized medical marijuana. Each jurisdiction has its own criteria regarding what conditions cannabis can be prescribed for, the amount that can be sold and the process for issuing medical marijuana licenses. ## What does federal law say about marijuana? Despite the president's order, the [Drug Enforcement Agency](https://www.dea.gov/drug-information/drug-scheduling#:~:text=Schedule%20I%20drugs%2C%20substances%2C%20or,\)%2C%20methaqualone%2C%20and%20peyote. "(opens in a new window)") still classifies cannabis as a Schedule I drug under the Controlled Substances Act of 1970, "with no currently accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse." Other Schedule I drugs include heroin and LSD, while cocaine is listed as a Schedule II drug. In 2013, President Barack Obama [directed the Justice Department](https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/justice-department-announces-update-marijuana-enforcement-policy "(opens in a new window)") to defer to state authorities in jurisdictions that had legalized marijuana, "based on assurances that those states will impose an appropriately strict regulatory system." Known as the [Cole Memo](https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/justice-department-announces-update-marijuana-enforcement-policy "(opens in a new window)"), this guidance was rescinded in 2018 by Jeff Sessions, attorney general under President Donald Trump. Marijuana legalization advocates have encouraged Biden to direct current Attorney General Merrick Garland to reinstate the Cole Memo. ## How do Americans feel about legalizing weed? According to a [2021 Pew Research poll](https://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2021/04/16/americans-overwhelmingly-say-marijuana-should-be-legal-for-recreational-or-medical-use/ "(opens in a new window)"), 91% of Americans believe cannabis should be legalized to some degree -- 31% for medical use only and 60% for both medical and recreational use. (Only 8% of respondents said marijuana should not be legal at all.) Some 16% percent of Americans smoke pot, according to an August 2022 [Gallup poll](https://news.gallup.com/poll/396893/americans-not-convinced-marijuana-benefits-society.aspx "(opens in a new window)"), which is more than the [11% of US adults](https://news.gallup.com/poll/1717/tobacco-smoking.aspx "(opens in a new window)") who smoke cigarettes. Gallup's research also found that nearly half (46%) of American adults say they've tried marijuana, despite it being registered as a Schedule I controlled substance by the federal government. ## President Biden on legalizing marijuana ![Biden press conference](https://www.cnet.com/images/logos/cnet_load.png) While campaigning for president, Joe Biden said he supported leaving regulation of recreational marijuana to individual states. Screenshot by Corinne Reichert/CNET During his 2020 presidential campaign, then-candidate Biden promised to "[decriminalize cannabis use](https://www.timesrepublican.com/opinion/columnists/2022/01/its-time-for-biden-to-keep-his-promises-on-marijuana/ "(opens in a new window)") and automatically expunge prior convictions." If elected president, Biden said, he would "support the legalization of cannabis for medical purposes, leave decisions regarding legalization for recreational use up to the states, and reschedule cannabis as a Schedule II drug so researchers can study its positive and negative impacts," according to his [campaign website](https://joebiden.com/justice/ "(opens in a new window)"), Though the president can't repeal federal marijuana laws, Biden issued an executive order in October 2022 granting a pardon to anyone with a federal conviction for simple marijuana possession. He also directed the Department of Health and Human Services and Attorney General Merrick Garland to review whether marijuana should remain listed as a Schedule I substance. ## What's the difference between legalization and decriminalization? Many states that have legalized marijuana initially decriminalized possession of a small amount. Broadly speaking, cannabis "legalization" means passing laws that allow the buying, selling and possessing of marijuana, usually with restrictions on the age of the consumer and the amount purchased. Decriminalization, on the other hand, typically means that violating certain marijuana laws can still result in fines or other penalties but not criminal charges or jail time. In North Carolina, possession of half an ounce of marijuana or less is considered a [Class 3 misdemeanor](https://www.ncleg.net/EnactedLegislation/Statutes/HTML/ByArticle/Chapter_90/Article_5.html "(opens in a new window)") punishable by a \$200 fine, "but any sentence of imprisonment imposed must be suspended." [In Nebraska](https://nebraskalegislature.gov/laws/statutes.php?statute=28-416 "(opens in a new window)"), the first-offense possession of an ounce or less is punishable by a maximum fine of \$300 and a possible requirement to complete a drug education course. A second conviction is considered a misdemeanor, punishable by a maximum fine of \$500. Subsequent convictions are also misdemeanors, punishable by a maximum fine of \$500 and up to seven days in jail. ## Marijuana legalization efforts in Congress ![us-capitol-building.jpg](https://www.cnet.com/images/logos/cnet_load.png) A measure abolishing federal criminal penalties for those growing, possessing or distributing cannabis passed the House in April 2022. Marguerite Reardon/CNET As more states legalize medical and recreational marijuana, an increasing number of lawmakers want to square up federal laws so they don't conflict with state regulations. A number of bills introduced in both the House and Senate would address various aspects of marijuana legalization, from the criminal to the financial. The Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act Now with the Senate, the [Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act](https://www.democrats.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/CAOA%20Detailed%20Summary%20-.pdf "(opens in a new window)"), or CAOA, would end the federal ban on cannabis and give state-compliant cannabis businesses access to financial services like bank accounts, business loans and credit card transactions. The 296-page bill also addresses a federally mandated impaired-driving standard, cannabis industry workers' rights, and penalties for possessing or distributing large amounts of cannabis without a permit, Marijuana Moment [reported](https://www.marijuanamoment.net/senate-bill-to-federally-legalize-marijuana-and-promote-social-equity-finally-filed-by-schumer-booker-and-wyden/ "(opens in a new window)"). "Hundreds of millions of Americans live in states that have legalized cannabis in some form while it remains illegal at the federal level," Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, along with fellow Democrats Sen. Ron Wyden and Sen. Cory Booker, wrote in a February letter calling for input from fellow lawmakers. That discrepancy "breeds confusion and uncertainty," they said -- and raises numerous questions in areas from small-business growth to public safety. Advocates of legalization hope the bill will get a vote this session, while the Democrats still hold the Senate. "McConnell would never bring these things to the floor," Schumer said last year, referring to Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, [according to Politico](https://www.politico.com/news/2022/07/21/schumer-legal-weed-bill-00047058 "(opens in a new window)"). "We'll move forward and try to get this done as soon as we possibly can. The MORE Act A separate bill, the [Marijuana Opportunity and Reinvestment Expungement Act](https://www.govinfo.gov/app/details/BILLS-117hr3617eh#:~:text=An%20Act%20To%20decriminalize%20and,offenses%2C%20and%20for%20other%20purposes. "(opens in a new window)"), passed the House in April. It would also abolish federal criminal penalties for those growing, possessing or distributing cannabis and expunge nonviolent cannabis convictions. The MORE Act institutes a tax on cannabis to help communities impacted by decades of policing focused on nonviolent crimes related to marijuana use. The money would pay for programs such as job training, legal aid and youth mentoring. It wouldn't require states to legalize cannabis, however. Regulation would be left up to state lawmakers. The MORE Act originally passed the House in December 2020 -- the first time either chamber approved repealing federal marijuana prohibition -- but a matching bill in the Senate wasn't taken up for consideration. Other cannabis legislation On Feb. 4, 2022, the House passed the [Secure and Fair Enforcement Banking Act,](https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/1996#:~:text=This%20bill%20generally%20prohibits%20a,a%20legitimate%20cannabis-related%20business. "(opens in a new window)") which would grant state-licensed marijuana businesses access to financial services. On Oct. 30, Schumer said the Senate [was "very close"](https://www.proactiveinvestors.com/companies/news/996900/cannabis-msos-rocket-after-schumer-says-congress-is-very-close-to-passing-safe-cannabis-banking-legislation-996900.html "(opens in a new window)") to passing the legislation. In late March, the Senate unanimously approved the Cannabidiol and Marihuana Research Expansion Act, which would streamline the application process for researchers who want to study the medicinal value of cannabis and related products. "This important legislation will cut the red tape around the research process, helping get FDA-approved, marijuana-derived medications safely to patients," Sen. Dianne Feinstein, a Democrat from California and a sponsor of the bill, [said in a March 24 statement](https://www.feinstein.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=7A3020FD-4E3B-46E5-83E9-89BF12450C96 "(opens in a new window)"). ## About the Author ![Headshot of Dan Avery](https://www.cnet.com/images/logos/cnet_load.png) [Dan Avery](https://www.cnet.com/profiles/daverydcny/) Former Writer [Dan Avery](https://www.cnet.com/profiles/daverydcny/) Former Writer Dan was a writer on CNET's How-To and Thought Leadership teams. His byline has appeared in The New York Times, Newsweek, NBC News, Architectural Digest and elsewhere. He is a crossword junkie and is interested in the intersection of tech and marginalized communities. 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Readable Markdown	![state sign for Minnesota with cannabis leaf](https://www.cnet.com/images/logos/cnet_load.png) Minnesota is the 23rd state to legalize the recreational use of cannabis, which is still considered a Schedule I drug by the federal government. Rex Wholster/Getty Images On May 30, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz signed a bill legalizing recreational marijuana, making it the 23rd state to do so. "We've known for too long that prohibiting the use of cannabis hasn't worked," Walz, a member of the Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party, said [in a statement](https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/579413 "(opens in a new window)"). "By legalizing adult-use cannabis, we're expanding our economy, creating jobs, and regulating the industry to keep Minnesotans safe." [HF 100](https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=house&f=HF100&ssn=0&y=2023 "(opens in a new window)") allows adults over 21 to possess up to two pounds of cannabis at home and two ounces in public. lt also establishes a 10% tax on recreational cannabis and calls for the expungement or resentencing of cannabis-related convictions. The law is slated to go into effect Aug. 1, though retail dispensaries aren't expected to open until sometime next year, [according to](https://apnews.com/article/marijuana-legalization-recreational-minnesota-cannabis-31a77e46389fe3ed0472ddff672cf22f "(opens in a new window)") the Associated Press. Medical marijuana was legalized in Minnesota in 2014. Here's what to know about marijuana in the US, including which states have legalized it, what's happening on the federal level and how Americans feel about pot. ## Which states have legalized recreational marijuana? Minnesota is the 23rd state to legalize the adult use of marijuana for recreational purposes, [according to](https://www.ncsl.org/research/health/state-medical-marijuana-laws.aspx "(opens in a new window)") the National Conference of State Legislatures. The other states are Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri, Montana, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Nevada, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia and Washington. Adult-use marijuana is also legal in the District of Columbia, Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands. ## What states have legalized medical marijuana? As of May 2023, [37 states have legalized the medical use](https://ballotpedia.org/Marijuana_laws_and_ballot_measures_in_the_United_States "(opens in a new window)") of cannabis to varying degrees: Alaska, Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Hawaii, Illinois, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington and West Virginia. In addition, all states with adult-use laws -- as well as the District of Columbia and the territories of Puerto Rico, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands and the US Virgin Islands -- have legalized medical marijuana. Each jurisdiction has its own criteria regarding what conditions cannabis can be prescribed for, the amount that can be sold and the process for issuing medical marijuana licenses. ## What does federal law say about marijuana? Despite the president's order, the [Drug Enforcement Agency](https://www.dea.gov/drug-information/drug-scheduling#:~:text=Schedule%20I%20drugs%2C%20substances%2C%20or,\)%2C%20methaqualone%2C%20and%20peyote. "(opens in a new window)") still classifies cannabis as a Schedule I drug under the Controlled Substances Act of 1970, "with no currently accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse." Other Schedule I drugs include heroin and LSD, while cocaine is listed as a Schedule II drug. In 2013, President Barack Obama [directed the Justice Department](https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/justice-department-announces-update-marijuana-enforcement-policy "(opens in a new window)") to defer to state authorities in jurisdictions that had legalized marijuana, "based on assurances that those states will impose an appropriately strict regulatory system." Known as the [Cole Memo](https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/justice-department-announces-update-marijuana-enforcement-policy "(opens in a new window)"), this guidance was rescinded in 2018 by Jeff Sessions, attorney general under President Donald Trump. Marijuana legalization advocates have encouraged Biden to direct current Attorney General Merrick Garland to reinstate the Cole Memo. ## How do Americans feel about legalizing weed? According to a [2021 Pew Research poll](https://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2021/04/16/americans-overwhelmingly-say-marijuana-should-be-legal-for-recreational-or-medical-use/ "(opens in a new window)"), 91% of Americans believe cannabis should be legalized to some degree -- 31% for medical use only and 60% for both medical and recreational use. (Only 8% of respondents said marijuana should not be legal at all.) Some 16% percent of Americans smoke pot, according to an August 2022 [Gallup poll](https://news.gallup.com/poll/396893/americans-not-convinced-marijuana-benefits-society.aspx "(opens in a new window)"), which is more than the [11% of US adults](https://news.gallup.com/poll/1717/tobacco-smoking.aspx "(opens in a new window)") who smoke cigarettes. Gallup's research also found that nearly half (46%) of American adults say they've tried marijuana, despite it being registered as a Schedule I controlled substance by the federal government. ## President Biden on legalizing marijuana ![Biden press conference](https://www.cnet.com/images/logos/cnet_load.png) While campaigning for president, Joe Biden said he supported leaving regulation of recreational marijuana to individual states. Screenshot by Corinne Reichert/CNET During his 2020 presidential campaign, then-candidate Biden promised to "[decriminalize cannabis use](https://www.timesrepublican.com/opinion/columnists/2022/01/its-time-for-biden-to-keep-his-promises-on-marijuana/ "(opens in a new window)") and automatically expunge prior convictions." If elected president, Biden said, he would "support the legalization of cannabis for medical purposes, leave decisions regarding legalization for recreational use up to the states, and reschedule cannabis as a Schedule II drug so researchers can study its positive and negative impacts," according to his [campaign website](https://joebiden.com/justice/ "(opens in a new window)"), Though the president can't repeal federal marijuana laws, Biden issued an executive order in October 2022 granting a pardon to anyone with a federal conviction for simple marijuana possession. He also directed the Department of Health and Human Services and Attorney General Merrick Garland to review whether marijuana should remain listed as a Schedule I substance. ## What's the difference between legalization and decriminalization? Many states that have legalized marijuana initially decriminalized possession of a small amount. Broadly speaking, cannabis "legalization" means passing laws that allow the buying, selling and possessing of marijuana, usually with restrictions on the age of the consumer and the amount purchased. Decriminalization, on the other hand, typically means that violating certain marijuana laws can still result in fines or other penalties but not criminal charges or jail time. In North Carolina, possession of half an ounce of marijuana or less is considered a [Class 3 misdemeanor](https://www.ncleg.net/EnactedLegislation/Statutes/HTML/ByArticle/Chapter_90/Article_5.html "(opens in a new window)") punishable by a \$200 fine, "but any sentence of imprisonment imposed must be suspended." [In Nebraska](https://nebraskalegislature.gov/laws/statutes.php?statute=28-416 "(opens in a new window)"), the first-offense possession of an ounce or less is punishable by a maximum fine of \$300 and a possible requirement to complete a drug education course. A second conviction is considered a misdemeanor, punishable by a maximum fine of \$500. Subsequent convictions are also misdemeanors, punishable by a maximum fine of \$500 and up to seven days in jail. ## Marijuana legalization efforts in Congress ![us-capitol-building.jpg](https://www.cnet.com/images/logos/cnet_load.png) A measure abolishing federal criminal penalties for those growing, possessing or distributing cannabis passed the House in April 2022. Marguerite Reardon/CNET As more states legalize medical and recreational marijuana, an increasing number of lawmakers want to square up federal laws so they don't conflict with state regulations. A number of bills introduced in both the House and Senate would address various aspects of marijuana legalization, from the criminal to the financial. The Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act Now with the Senate, the [Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act](https://www.democrats.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/CAOA%20Detailed%20Summary%20-.pdf "(opens in a new window)"), or CAOA, would end the federal ban on cannabis and give state-compliant cannabis businesses access to financial services like bank accounts, business loans and credit card transactions. The 296-page bill also addresses a federally mandated impaired-driving standard, cannabis industry workers' rights, and penalties for possessing or distributing large amounts of cannabis without a permit, Marijuana Moment [reported](https://www.marijuanamoment.net/senate-bill-to-federally-legalize-marijuana-and-promote-social-equity-finally-filed-by-schumer-booker-and-wyden/ "(opens in a new window)"). "Hundreds of millions of Americans live in states that have legalized cannabis in some form while it remains illegal at the federal level," Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, along with fellow Democrats Sen. Ron Wyden and Sen. Cory Booker, wrote in a February letter calling for input from fellow lawmakers. That discrepancy "breeds confusion and uncertainty," they said -- and raises numerous questions in areas from small-business growth to public safety. Advocates of legalization hope the bill will get a vote this session, while the Democrats still hold the Senate. "McConnell would never bring these things to the floor," Schumer said last year, referring to Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, [according to Politico](https://www.politico.com/news/2022/07/21/schumer-legal-weed-bill-00047058 "(opens in a new window)"). "We'll move forward and try to get this done as soon as we possibly can. The MORE Act A separate bill, the [Marijuana Opportunity and Reinvestment Expungement Act](https://www.govinfo.gov/app/details/BILLS-117hr3617eh#:~:text=An%20Act%20To%20decriminalize%20and,offenses%2C%20and%20for%20other%20purposes. "(opens in a new window)"), passed the House in April. It would also abolish federal criminal penalties for those growing, possessing or distributing cannabis and expunge nonviolent cannabis convictions. The MORE Act institutes a tax on cannabis to help communities impacted by decades of policing focused on nonviolent crimes related to marijuana use. The money would pay for programs such as job training, legal aid and youth mentoring. It wouldn't require states to legalize cannabis, however. Regulation would be left up to state lawmakers. The MORE Act originally passed the House in December 2020 -- the first time either chamber approved repealing federal marijuana prohibition -- but a matching bill in the Senate wasn't taken up for consideration. Other cannabis legislation On Feb. 4, 2022, the House passed the [Secure and Fair Enforcement Banking Act,](https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/1996#:~:text=This%20bill%20generally%20prohibits%20a,a%20legitimate%20cannabis-related%20business. "(opens in a new window)") which would grant state-licensed marijuana businesses access to financial services. On Oct. 30, Schumer said the Senate [was "very close"](https://www.proactiveinvestors.com/companies/news/996900/cannabis-msos-rocket-after-schumer-says-congress-is-very-close-to-passing-safe-cannabis-banking-legislation-996900.html "(opens in a new window)") to passing the legislation. In late March, the Senate unanimously approved the Cannabidiol and Marihuana Research Expansion Act, which would streamline the application process for researchers who want to study the medicinal value of cannabis and related products. "This important legislation will cut the red tape around the research process, helping get FDA-approved, marijuana-derived medications safely to patients," Sen. Dianne Feinstein, a Democrat from California and a sponsor of the bill, [said in a March 24 statement](https://www.feinstein.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=7A3020FD-4E3B-46E5-83E9-89BF12450C96 "(opens in a new window)").
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