Indiana Cannabis Laws 2026: The Modern Era
2026 (July)
2026 (July): House Bill 1346 goes into effect, overhauling the state's definition of "low-THC hemp extract." The law mandates that products must contain no more than 0.3% total THC (including the acidic precursor THCA) and strictly prohibits synthetic cannabinoids.
2026 (November)
2026 (November): New enforcement rules begin, requiring random inspections of retail locations by the Alcohol and Tobacco Commission to ensure compliance with the 2026 THC limits.
2026 (Current Status)
2026 (Current Status): Marijuana remains fully illegal for recreational and medical use. Only CBD products meeting the strict 0.3% "Total THC" threshold are permitted.
The CBD and Hemp Era (2017–2024)
2017
2017: Governor Eric Holcomb signs a very limited bill allowing CBD use only for patients with treatment-resistant epilepsy.
2018
2018: Following the federal Farm Bill, Indiana legalizes the sale of CBD oil for all adults, provided it contains less than 0.3% THC.
2019
2019: The state attempts to ban smokable hemp flower, sparking a multi-year legal battle with the hemp industry that eventually results in the state maintaining strict control over "smokable" products.
Early Prohibition (1913–1970s)
The Indiana marijuana laws timeline began earlier than many other states.
1913
1913: Indiana becomes one of the first states to ban the sale of cannabis without a prescription.
1970s
1970s: Unlike other states in the Midwest, Indiana did not pass a decriminalization measure during the 1970s reform wave, solidifying its status as a prohibitionist state.