Indiana Marijuana Law Update for 2025

Marijuana reform continues to dominate national headlines, but Indiana remains one of the few states where cannabis, whether for medical or recreational use, is still illegal. While neighboring states like Michigan and Illinois have legalized marijuana in some form, Indiana lawmakers have so far refused to follow suit. At Dogan & Dogan, we’ve been watching this issue closely because any change in the law could significantly impact criminal cases, workplace rights, and even business opportunities across the state.

Here’s where things stand with Indiana marijuana laws in 2025, what legislative proposals have been introduced, and what you need to know if you live, work, or operate a business in the Hoosier State.

Current Marijuana Laws in Indiana

Under Indiana Code § 35-48-4-11, it remains a criminal offense to possess, cultivate, or distribute marijuana, hash oil, or hashish. Even simple possession of marijuana is classified as a Class B misdemeanor, which can result in up to 180 days in jail and a fine of up to $1,000. Repeat offenses or possession of more than 30 grams can lead to Class A misdemeanor or Level 6 felony charges, carrying significantly steeper penalties, including potential prison time.

Indiana also lacks a comprehensive medical marijuana program. Despite several proposals over the past decade, lawmakers have not created a legal pathway for patients with chronic conditions to use cannabis therapeutically. This means that even individuals using marijuana for medical purposes, including pain management or seizure control, can still face criminal prosecution.

In short, as of 2025, marijuana remains illegal in all forms in Indiana.

2025 Legislative Efforts to Change Indiana Marijuana Law

This year saw several attempts to reform the state’s marijuana laws. Unfortunately, none have been able to move forward successfully. Still, they reflect growing public and legislative interest in eventual reform. Some of the key 2025 bills included:

• House Bill 1145: Proposed to decriminalize possession of two ounces or less of marijuana.

• House Bill 1630: Aimed to create a framework for legal production, sale, and taxation of cannabis.

• House Bill 1654: Proposed legalization of cannabis for adults aged 18 and older, regulated by the Indiana Department of Health.

• Senate Bill 113: Sought to legalize cannabis for both medical and recreational use, with a new cannabis excise tax and licensing commission.

Each of these bills stalled before reaching a full vote. Leadership in both chambers of the Indiana General Assembly has indicated that marijuana reform is not a legislative priority in 2025. Speaker Todd Huston was quoted as saying legalization “will not be part of this year’s budget discussions,” reflecting continued resistance among state leadership.

Why Legalization Efforts Continue to Stall

Public opinion polls consistently show that a majority of Hoosiers support either medical or recreational legalization. Yet legislative reform has stalled for several reasons:

• Political resistance. Many state lawmakers argue that legalization could create safety risks or public health challenges.
• Federal uncertainty. Although the federal government has signaled potential reclassification of marijuana, it remains a Schedule I substance under federal law.
• Lack of consensus. Lawmakers have not agreed on whether to start with medical marijuana or full legalization.

Advocates continue to push for hearings, but bills frequently die in committee before public debate ever begins.

Penalties for Marijuana-Related Offenses in 2025

Since no reform bills have passed, the penalties for marijuana possession or distribution remain the same in 2025. Under Indiana Code § 35-48-4, these include:

• Possession under 30 grams: Class B misdemeanor (up to 180 days in jail, $1,000 fine).
• Possession over 30 grams or prior conviction: Class A misdemeanor (up to one year in jail, $5,000 fine).
• Sale or distribution: Level 6 felony for under 30 grams; Level 5 felony for larger amounts or sales near schools, parks, or youth centers.

Additionally, Indiana does not have a statewide expungement process for prior marijuana convictions beyond its general expungement statute. That means older marijuana-related convictions can still appear on your criminal record, potentially affecting employment and housing.

What Legalization Could Mean for Indiana

If one of the proposed bills were to pass eventually, Indiana could see several significant changes:

• Regulated adult-use market: Legal sales for adults 18 or 21 and older with licensing and taxation.
• Medical cannabis program: Allowing patients with chronic conditions access to medical marijuana under physician supervision.
• Reduced incarceration rates: Decriminalization would relieve pressure on jails and courts.
• New revenue streams: Cannabis excise taxes could contribute to state programs such as addiction recovery and education.

Neighboring states that have legalized marijuana, such as Michigan and Illinois, have already seen substantial tax revenue growth.

However, until Indiana lawmakers pass such measures, any possession or sale of cannabis remains prohibited.

Hemp and Delta-8: The Ongoing Legal Gray Area

Indiana does permit hemp products containing less than 0.3% THC under federal law. However, Delta-8 THC, a psychoactive compound derived from hemp, remains under scrutiny. Some businesses sell Delta-8 products, but their legality has been called into question. Law enforcement agencies continue to warn consumers that mislabeling or misuse could still result in criminal charges.

Lawmakers discussed further regulating hemp-derived THC in 2025 through Senate Bill 478, which proposed stricter labeling and sales rules. The bill has not yet been enacted, leaving Delta-8 in a legal gray area.

The Bottom Line for Hoosiers

As of 2025, marijuana is still illegal in Indiana, both for recreational and medical use. Despite multiple legislative attempts, no reform has passed. Possession, cultivation, and distribution remain criminal offenses under Indiana Code § 35-48-4-11.

If you are facing marijuana-related charges, it’s critical to understand your rights. A conviction can affect your job, education, and future opportunities. At Dogan & Dogan, we help clients across Indiana fight marijuana possession charges, protect their records, and understand how changing laws may impact their cases.

Stay Informed About Indiana Marijuana Law Changes

Marijuana reform continues to evolve at the federal and state levels. Even though Indiana has resisted legalization so far, legislative momentum in neighboring states and ongoing federal discussions could eventually shift the landscape. Our firm stays current on every proposed bill and regulatory change so we can help clients make informed decisions.

If you have been charged with possession, distribution, or any other marijuana-related offense, or simply want to understand how these laws could affect you, contact us online. The attorneys at Dogan & Dogan are here to protect your rights, explain your options, and keep you informed as Indiana’s marijuana laws continue to develop.