The non-medical use of cannabis is legalized in 23 states and decriminalized in 8 states, as of May 2023. Decriminalization refers to a policy of reduced penalties for cannabis offenses, typically involving a civil penalty for possessing small amounts (similar to how a minor traffic violation is treated), instead of criminal prosecution or the threat of arrest. However, at a federal level, cannabis remains a Schedule I drug.
Every U.S. state that has legalized recreational use has set a mandatory legal minimum age of 21 for purchase, possession, and use.