Semrush Unveils America's Burning Questions: Is Weed Legal?

Despite the avalanche of information available in the digital age, a simple Google search reveals a persistent lack of clarity around legal issues in America, particularly regarding the legality of marijuana. A recently concluded study by Semrush SEMR, a leading marketing software company, uncovers the top legal queries that perplex the American populace.

"Is weed legal in Florida?" surprisingly, emerged as the number one query in the study, indicating the need for straightforward information regarding cannabis laws. Semrush's research, which is currently unpublished, used Google search data to investigate the legal inquiries most commonly explored by Americans. Among the findings, the prevalence of questions about marijuana was an eye-opening revelation.

“Our recent study revealed a pressing question on the minds of many Americans: 'Is weed legal?' Given the widespread curiosity of this topic from state to state, one thing is clear – there is a significant gap when it comes to the public’s understanding of local and state laws in relation to marijuana," Fernando Angulo, senior market research manager at Semrush, told Benzinga Cannabis.

His words highlight the necessity for clear, accessible information on legal matters, particularly concerning marijuana. With cannabis being an increasingly important topic in American society, this research sheds light on the opportunity businesses have to leverage this curiosity, formulate targeted marketing strategies, and engage with their audience in a meaningful way.

Analyzing data between January 2022 and January 2023, Semrush compiled a list of the top 100 legal-related search queries. Marijuana legality dominated the list, with the majority of the queries reflecting an attempt to comprehend the different state laws governing its use. Other recurring themes included abortion legality and regulations surrounding prostitution.

The top five queries focused on the legal status of weed in different states - Florida, New York, and Texas, in particular. Further down the list, other questions ranged from "is prostitution legal in Nevada?" to "where is abortion legal?" indicating a broad array of legal curiosities across America.

The breadth of the queries shows an earnest desire for more accessible legal information, especially regarding controversial and hot-button topics like marijuana and abortion. It also underscores the value and role of platforms like Google in disseminating accurate, concise, and accessible information to the public.

What is clear from Semrush's research is the need for easy-to-understand, state-specific legal guidelines, particularly around the issue of marijuana legality. This need presents businesses, especially in the burgeoning cannabis industry, with an opportunity to fill this information gap and establish trust with their audiences.

Below are the top search queries ranked by monthly average volume:

There's no question that people are looking for answers, and it's up to businesses and legal professionals alike to provide them. As legal landscapes continue to evolve, so will the questions. In the meantime, studies like this one from Semrush are doing the necessary work of highlighting what those questions are and providing a roadmap for those ready and willing to answer them.