Cannabis, commonly referred to as marijuana, weed, or pot, is a psychoactive substance derived from the cannabis plant. It is utilized for both recreational and medicinal purposes, producing various effects on the mind and body, such as euphoria, relaxation, pain relief, increased appetite, and altered perception.
Despite being legal for recreational use in 18 states and the District of Columbia and for medical use in 36 states and four territories, the federal government still categorizes marijuana as a Schedule I substance, indicating no accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse.
The Leading Consumer of Marijuana in Washington State
One of the states that has legalized marijuana for both recreational and medical use is Washington, which was the first state to do so in 2012, along with Colorado. According to a recent report by the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board, the state collected more than $469 million in marijuana tax revenue in the fiscal year 2020, which is a 30% increase from the previous year.
The report also revealed that the city that consumed the most marijuana in the state was Seattle, the largest and most populous city in Washington. Seattle accounted for 19.6% of the total marijuana sales in the state, followed by Spokane with 8.9% and Tacoma with 6.4%.
The report also showed that the average price per gram of marijuana in the state was $4.15, and the average potency of marijuana products was 20.6% THC.
Factors Contributing to Seattle’s High Marijuana Consumption
Several factors may contribute to Seattle being the leading consumer of marijuana in Washington. The city’s demographic and cultural characteristics, characterized by progressive and liberal views, a diverse and creative population, and the presence of tech giants and artistic communities, may play a role. Additionally, Seattle boasts over 150 licensed marijuana retailers, the highest in the state, providing ample accessibility.
The city’s well-established marijuana culture, showcased through events like Hempfest, further normalizes and promotes cannabis use. Furthermore, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, causing increased stress and anxiety, might have heightened the demand for marijuana as a coping mechanism.
A survey by the American Marijuana Association indicated that 28% of marijuana users in the US increased their consumption during the pandemic, while 14% decreased it, and 58% maintained their usage.
In Conclusion
Marijuana remains a widely debated substance in the United States, with varying legal statuses and social acceptance. Washington’s experience, particularly in Seattle, highlights the substantial impact of marijuana legalization on tax revenue and consumption.
Seattle’s prominence in marijuana consumption can be attributed to its unique demographic and cultural landscape, coupled with the accessibility of marijuana and the potential influence of the COVID-19 pandemic. As other cities and states contemplate or implement marijuana legalization, Seattle’s example may serve as both a model and a challenge.
