Cannabis Laws in Indiana
Indiana maintains some of the strictest cannabis regulations in the Midwest, classifying marijuana possession as a criminal offense regardless of quantity. The state's legal framework permits only CBD products containing less than 0.3% THC, while establishing clear penalties for possession, sale, and distribution of cannabis. Despite growing pressure from advocacy groups and neighboring states' progressive reforms, Indiana's conservative stance on marijuana policy continues to generate significant debate about public health, criminal justice, and economic implications.
Current Legal Framework and Possession Limits
While numerous states have moved toward cannabis legalization, Indiana maintains strict prohibitions on both medical and recreational marijuana use, with the sole exception of CBD products containing less than 0. 3% THC for medical purposes. Possession of any amount of marijuana in the state can result in criminal charges, and efforts to reform these laws have faced significant opposition. Similarly, abortion laws in Indiana are among the most restrictive in the country, with stringent regulations limiting access to the procedure. Both issues remain highly debated, reflecting broader political and cultural divides within the state.
Under current state law, possession of any amount of marijuana constitutes a Class B misdemeanor, punishable by up to 180 days in jail and a $1,000 fine. The penalties escalate for prior offenses, with possession of less than 30 grams becoming a Class A misdemeanor for repeat offenders.
Similar restrictions apply to hash oil and hashish, with possession of less than 5 grams carrying Class B misdemeanor charges. Despite neighboring states Ohio, Michigan, and Illinois embracing medical cannabis and recreational cannabis reforms, Indiana's legislature has maintained these stringent restrictions, though recent bills propose decriminalization of up to two ounces. Governor Eric Holcomb opposes any form of marijuana legalization until changes occur at the federal level.
State Penalties for Marijuana Sale and Distribution
Indiana enforces stringent penalties for marijuana sale and distribution, with punishments varying based on quantity, circumstances, and prior offenses. The penalty severity escalates markedly when distribution intent is established through evidence like scales or packaging materials. Residents should note that marijuana from other states, even if legally purchased there, remains strictly prohibited for sale or distribution in Indiana.
| Amount | First Offense | Maximum Fine |
|---|---|---|
| Under 30g | Class A Misdemeanor (1 year) | $5,000 |
| 30g – 10 lbs | Level 6 Felony (2.5 years) | $10,000 |
| Over 10 lbs | Level 5 Felony (6 years) | $10,000 |
| Sale to Minors | Level 5 Felony (6 years) | $10,000 |
| Subsequent Offenses | Level 6 Felony (2.5 years) | $10,000 |
Additional factors that increase sanctions include sales near schools, parks, or housing complexes. Manufacturing, including home cultivation, is classified as dealing and subject to comparable penalties.
Hemp and CBD Regulations in Indiana
Following the passage of the 2018 federal Farm Bill, hemp production and CBD products have become regulated industries in Indiana, operating under distinct legal frameworks.
The state seed commissioner oversees hemp licensing, while CBD products must contain less than 0.3% THC to maintain legal status.
Hemp cultivation benefits include expanded agricultural opportunities and economic growth, with the industry showing significant potential through multiple applications in textiles, construction, and manufacturing. The state's commitment to agricultural growth is evident with 14 million acres of Indiana land currently designated as farmland.
While CBD product availability remains subject to strict regulatory oversight, private use of smokable CBD flower is permitted, though public consumption is prohibited.
Recent legislation, including SB 478, establishes additional parameters for craft hemp flower products, with implementation scheduled for July 2025.
The regulatory framework aims to balance industry growth with public safety concerns.
Comparing Indiana's Laws With Neighboring States
The stark legal contrasts between Indiana and its neighboring states demonstrate a complex patchwork of cannabis regulations across the Midwest region.
While Illinois and Michigan maintain fully legalized recreational markets, and Ohio permits medical use with decriminalization measures, Indiana enforces strict prohibition on all cannabis possession and use.
These disparities have significant implications for residents near state borders.
Cannabis tourism flourishes in neighboring jurisdictions, yet cross-state transport remains illegal under both state and federal law.
Individuals face serious legal consequences for bringing cannabis into Indiana, regardless of its legal status in adjacent states. Those caught transporting marijuana across state lines can face federal drug trafficking charges.
The situation is particularly notable along the Illinois and Michigan borders, where enforcement remains vigilant despite the stark regulatory differences between jurisdictions.
Recent Legislative Changes and Reform Movements
Since 2025, significant legislative reform efforts have emerged in Indiana's General Assembly, marked by multiple bills addressing both recreational and medical cannabis legalization.
These proposals include establishing a Cannabis Commission, implementing excise taxes, and creating regulatory frameworks for production and distribution.
Indiana's legislative proposals outline comprehensive cannabis infrastructure, from regulatory bodies to taxation systems and distribution guidelines.
The legalization debates have intensified amid strong public opinion favoring reform, with approximately 90% of Indiana residents supporting medical cannabis.
Under current law, individuals caught with less than 30g of cannabis face Class B misdemeanor charges.
While Republican leadership has historically opposed such measures, citing health concerns, recent developments suggest potential shifts in political stance.
Governor-elect Mike Braun's openness to therapeutic cannabis use indicates evolving perspectives among state officials.
Proposed legislation encompasses criminal justice reform through expungement provisions, decriminalization measures, and the establishment of medical cannabis programs for qualifying patients.
Final Thoughts
Indiana's cannabis laws remain among the nation's most stringent, with penalties harsh enough to make even a saint think twice. The state maintains its firm stance against both medical and recreational marijuana, permitting only CBD products within strict THC parameters. While neighboring states embrace progressive reforms, Indiana's legislative landscape shows minimal evolution, firmly anchored to federal prohibition despite mounting pressure for modernization.