Indiana Cannabis Conundrum: The Green Mile & Missed Opportunities

As cannabis legalization sweeps across the country, Indiana remains a major holdout, and its residents are feeling the effects. The “Green Mile”—a stretch of dispensaries along Michigan’s southwestern border—is thriving, drawing in not only Indiana residents but also people from neighboring Kentucky and Ohio. They’re crossing the state lines for a chance to access Michigan’s high-quality cannabis, with its low prices and even lower taxes compared to surrounding states.

Indiana’s refusal to legalize cannabis means it’s missing out on substantial economic opportunities, with tax revenue and jobs going to Michigan instead. Even residents from Kentucky, where medical cannabis is legal but still limited in availability, are making the further trip to Michigan to take advantage of better options. People are finding that the cannabis they purchase in Michigan is not only better in quality but also more affordable due to Michigan’s tax structure. In Ohio, where cannabis is legal for medical use, prices are higher and taxes are steeper, making Michigan even more appealing.

As Michigan continues to grow its cannabis market, some Indiana residents are already suggesting it’s too late for the state to catch up. Michigan’s marijuana program is already a model of success, and it has set the bar incredibly high. With its consistent market growth and reputation for offering quality products at competitive prices, it’s hard to see how Indiana could attract significant market share without a major shift in policy.

“Michigan is among the lowest cannabis tax states in the country,” said a Michigan cannabis retailer. “It’s one of the key reasons why so many people from surrounding states are coming here to shop—it’s affordable and high quality.”

Legalizing cannabis in Indiana could create a wealth of economic benefits, from job creation to tax revenue, but with Michigan’s proven success, it’s unclear if Indiana will be able to catch up. Until then, residents will continue to make the short drive across the border for some sweet, sticky green at unbeatable prices.