As Indiana lawmakers consider changes to the state’s marijuana laws during the 2026 legislative session, new polling data shows growing public support for legalization. Nearly three in five Indiana residents favor allowing cannabis for both medical and recreational use, according to a recently released statewide survey.
Hoosier Survey Shows Broad Support for Reform
The findings come from the annual Hoosier Survey conducted by the Bowen Center for Public Affairs at Ball State University. The survey questioned 600 Indiana residents on a range of policy topics, including congressional redistricting and cannabis policy.
According to the results, 59% of respondents support legalizing marijuana for both medical and recreational purposes. An additional 25% favor legalizing cannabis for medical use only, bringing total support for medical marijuana access to 84% statewide.
Researchers noted that support has expanded beyond traditionally younger or activist demographics, increasingly including parents, business leaders, and other groups not historically associated with cannabis reform advocacy.
Legislative Proposals Reintroduced in 2026 Session
The poll’s release coincided with renewed legislative activity at the Statehouse. Indiana Rep. Mitch Gore filed a bill that would legalize possession and limited home cultivation of marijuana. His proposal is one of several reform measures introduced or expected during the current session.
Despite rising public approval, cannabis reform has faced persistent resistance in Indiana’s conservative legislature, where similar bills have stalled in past years.
Federal Developments Add New Context
National policy changes may influence the debate. Following a directive from President Donald Trump, marijuana was reclassified under federal law from Schedule I to Schedule III of the Controlled Substances Act, reducing its classification as a high-risk substance.
Indiana Gov. Mike Braun has previously said he is open to medical cannabis legalization and suggested that federal rescheduling could strengthen the case for reform at the state level. Earlier polling has also indicated even higher public support, with some surveys showing approval rates approaching nine in ten Indiana adults.
Ongoing Opposition From State and Federal Leaders
Not all elected officials are aligned with the shift in public opinion. U.S. Sen. Jim Banks has voiced opposition to marijuana legalization, citing concerns about public safety and community impact in states where cannabis is already legal.
Within the Indiana General Assembly, top Republican leaders have also remained skeptical. Senate President Pro Tem Rodric Bray and House Speaker Todd Huston have both expressed doubts about the medical benefits of cannabis, arguing that medical marijuana programs often function as de facto recreational legalization and questioning whether reform is driven by health considerations or revenue potential.
Outlook for Cannabis Policy in Indiana
While public support for marijuana legalization in Indiana continues to rise, the path forward remains uncertain. The contrast between voter sentiment, evolving federal policy, and legislative resistance suggests that cannabis reform will remain a contentious issue during the 2026 session. Whether lawmakers move beyond committee discussions to enact substantive changes may depend on how political dynamics evolve in the months ahead.
