This Day in Weed History: April 5, 1977 – New York Decriminalizes Possession of Small Amounts of Marijuana

On April 5, 1977, New York made a bold and history-making move in the cannabis reform movement: the state decriminalized the possession of 25 grams (about 0.88 ounces) or less of marijuana, reducing the penalty to a $100 fine for first-time offenders. This pivotal moment marked one of the earliest significant state-level shifts in how cannabis was treated under the law in the United States.

While full legalization was still decades away, this move was part of the first wave of progressive cannabis policy reforms that laid the groundwork for the legal industry we know today.

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Higher Flour: Standing on the Shoulders of Reform

At Higher Flour, we honor the trailblazers who helped pave the way for safe, legal access to cannabis and hemp-based wellness. Without these key historical turning points—like New York’s 1977 decriminalization—brands like ours wouldn’t be able to bring you gourmet, hemp-infused cookies, oils, and chill experiences in broad daylight.

We believe cannabis is a culture, not just a product. It’s freedom, flavor, and feel-good energy rolled into one. And on this day in history, a door was cracked open—a door we proudly walk through every day to bring you elevated treats without compromise.

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Why It Matters

April 5, 1977, was a reminder that progress takes courage. Every cookie we bake, every product we make, is a celebration of how far we’ve come—and a nudge toward how far we can still go.

So today, take a moment to savor the sweet taste of freedom—and maybe a cookie while you’re at it.