It helps to know precisely "who" is preventing the legalization. Alcohol and Pharma. Take New Hampshire as an example - a state which parks "state-run" liquor stores on their borders can speak directly to this. The lobby power of booze and pharmaceuticals in that state is heartbreaking. They are enveloped by recreational legal states (and Canada), and yet, the state government fights their constituents desires as if human rights are a combat enemy. I love the Maine response. Cross the border and it's dispensaries everywhere. Fight fire with fire. Overgrow the nation. - Over 50 years I've paid taxes in, and called NH, home. I've been told a few times; surround yourself with smart people...I sold my farm and am moving the family to Maine this year. /rant
I don't blame you one bit. Bad choices that I made in life starting with my freshman year in high school, led me down the path I'm on now. 60 years old, on disability, and have to live with my daughter because my check won't cover the rent they charge now. She lives in a red state so legalization for me will only happen when the federal government says it's legal. Which will be when I'm dead. Bad thing about it is, I'm surrounded by legal recreational and medical states.