Poll: 56% of Americans back marijuana legalization

Yet another major poll has found a majority of U.S. residents support full marijuana legalization nationwide, the latest bullish news for the cannabis industry’s growth prospects here.

The survey, issued this week by CBS News, found that 56% of Americans believe cannabis use should be legal, up 3 percentage points from a CBS News poll a year ago and a new high for the broadcaster’s polling on the topic.

Thirty-six percent of those surveyed opposed legalization, down 7 percentage points from a year earlier.

The same poll also found that overall marijuana use in the U.S. has been rising steadily, to 51% from 43% a year ago.

The telephone survey was conducted April 8-12 among a random sample of 1,020 adults nationwide.

A poll issued last month by the Associated Press and the University of Chicago found national support for full legalization even higher than the CBS News poll, at 61%.

The data suggest an upward trajectory in terms of Americans’ positive attitude toward cannabis, given that both acceptance and use are increasing. And it’s yet another indication the marijuana industry will continue growing in this country. Moreover, legalization of medical marijuana is making strides in Mexico and recreational is making headway in Canada.