Indiana Lawmaker Introduces Cannabis Decriminalization Bill

Legislative Proposal

Indiana may be poised for a significant shift in cannabis policy. Democratic state Rep. Mitch Gore introduced House Bill 1191 on Monday, aiming to decriminalize possession and cultivation of small amounts of cannabis. If passed, the measure would mark a major reform in one of the few states that still criminalizes possession of even modest quantities.

Key Provisions

The bill would:

• Remove criminal penalties for possessing or cultivating up to two ounces of cannabis.

• Maintain prohibitions on commercial cultivation and sales.

• Keep cannabis concentrates such as hash and hash oil illegal.

This approach focuses narrowly on personal use and small‑scale cultivation, stopping short of broader legalization.

Legal Perspective

Shawn Hauser, partner at Vicente LLP, a national cannabis and psychedelics law firm, called the proposal “a long‑overdue step for Indiana.” She argued that outdated laws impose “a staggering human and economic cost” and fail to align with modern medical and public safety standards.

Social Impact

Hauser emphasized that current policies have disproportionately affected communities of color, leading to arrests and incarceration for actions increasingly recognized as safe or medically valid. She noted Indiana’s unique position as a “prohibition island,” surrounded by neighboring states with established medical or adult‑use cannabis programs.

Broader Context

While the bill does not legalize cannabis sales, it reflects growing momentum for reform across the Midwest. Decriminalization could reduce the burden on Indiana’s criminal justice system and align the state more closely with national trends in cannabis regulation.

Outlook

House Bill 1191 faces debate in the legislature, but its introduction signals a potential turning point. If enacted, Indiana would join the majority of U.S. states in easing penalties for cannabis possession, reshaping its stance on personal use.