52% of Utah Voters Back Legal Weed—Will It Make the Ballot?

19 March 2025

A growing number of Utah registered voters now support the legalization of recreational marijuana, according to a new survey by Noble Predictive Insights, which was sponsored by a local pro-medical cannabis non-profit Keep Utah Medical. The poll found that as of 2025, 52% of registered voters in the state would back a ballot initiative allowing adult-use cannabis, while 38% would oppose it. Support has increased by 2 points since a similar poll in 2024, signaling a slow but steady shift in public opinion.

Despite this growing acceptance, opposition remains strong among conservative voters and members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints,

While a formal initiative is not yet in motion, advocates argue that resistance to improving Utah’s restrictive medical cannabis program may push voters toward supporting full legalization.

Further Details and Fact Analysis:

Key Findings from the Poll:

• Support for recreational cannabis: 52% in favor, 38% opposed, 9% undecided.
• Demographics: Younger voters (ages 18-44) showed the highest support, as did liberals, independents, and non-religious respondents.
• Political divide: 76% of Democrats and 61% of independents support legalization, compared to 41% of Republicans.
• Religious divide: 31% of LDS Church members support legalization, while the majority oppose it.

Impact on the Industry and Local Market:

• Potential for a Ballot Initiative: If momentum continues, legalization could be introduced through a ballot measure, similar to Utah’s 2018 vote on medical marijuana.
• Medical Cannabis Program Challenges: Advocates argue that Utah’s restrictive medical cannabis program, including limited dispensary access and strict regulations, is pushing voters toward supporting broader legalization.
• Neighboring State Influence: States surrounding Utah, including Nevada and Colorado, have fully legalized recreational cannabis, creating out-of-state competition and highlighting the potential economic benefits of regulation and taxation.
• Legislative Barriers: Utah’s conservative political leadership remains firmly opposed, making it unlikely that recreational marijuana will be legalized through legislative action.

While support is growing, strong opposition from organized conservative groups could mobilize against legalization efforts, making any potential ballot initiative highly contested.

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