A newly released poll shows that more than half of Utah’s voters are now in favor of legalizing recreational marijuana, signaling a significant change in attitudes in a state known for its conservative values. The survey, carried out by Noble Predictive Insights and commissioned by the medical cannabis advocacy group Keep Utah Medical, found that 52% of registered voters would vote in favor of a ballot initiative to allow marijuana use beyond medical purposes. On the flip side, 38% were against the idea, and 9% were still undecided.

This level of approval is nearly identical to the 52.75% of voters who supported Proposition 2 in 2018, which legalized medical cannabis in Utah. The poll also revealed key differences among political groups and age demographics. Support was highest among Democrats (76%) and independents (61%), while only 41% of Republicans said they were in favor. Younger Utahns were more likely to support legalization, with 59% of voters aged 18-29 and 61% of those aged 30-44 backing the idea.

Despite the apparent shift in public opinion, state leaders are not on board with the idea of expanding cannabis laws. House Speaker Mike Schultz voiced strong opposition, stating bluntly that full legalization is “not going to happen” in Utah. Senate President J. Stuart Adams echoed his concerns, pointing to problems like increased crime and homelessness in states that have legalized recreational cannabis, arguing that Utah should stick to its current medical-only model.

Cannabis advocates like Alex Iorg, co-founder of Wholesome Co. and a leading member of Keep Utah Medical, argue that the focus should be on refining Utah’s medical cannabis program instead of pushing for recreational use. He believes that better patient access and fewer hurdles in the medical system would prevent unnecessary pressure to legalize recreational cannabis. However, he cautions that if frustrations grow, support for broader legalization may become harder to resist.

The survey results come shortly after Utah’s recent legislative session, during which lawmakers debated multiple cannabis-related bills. One proposal, House Bill 203, aimed at expanding the state’s medical cannabis infrastructure, was met with resistance from conservative organizations and failed to pass the Senate. However, some elements of the bill, such as adding two more cannabis pharmacies, were rolled into House Bill 54, which was approved by both legislative chambers and is now awaiting the governor’s signature.

While the numbers suggest that recreational legalization could gain voter approval if placed on the ballot, political analysts warn that any campaign would likely face heavy pushback from influential conservative and religious institutions. Notably, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, a dominant presence in Utah’s social and political landscape, has consistently opposed marijuana legalization and is expected to remain a powerful voice in future debates.

In summary, the latest polling data illustrates a changing tide in public opinion regarding cannabis in Utah. Yet, despite increased support among voters, strong political and cultural opposition may continue to delay any sweeping policy changes.