# US state-level cannabis market developments > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/us-state-level-cannabis-market-developments > Updated: 2026-08-15T14:35:20.000Z. Sources: 2. Developments: 2. The legal cannabis markets in the United States continue to evolve through state-level regulations, particularly in Illinois and California. In Illinois, recreational cannabis sales reached $118.15 million in June 2026, marking the second-highest monthly total for the year. Following the implementation of a new seed-to-sale tracking system, out-of-state purchases accounted for approximately 20% of total sales. The state operates under the Cannabis Regulation and Tax Act, which allows residents aged 21 and older to purchase from licensed dispensaries, though a legal distinction persists between state and federal law. California maintains a large recreational market established through medical legalization in 1996 and a 2016 recreational referendum. Current laws allow citizens over 21 to grow up to six plants and possess up to one ounce, subject to public smoking restrictions. In contrast to the growth in Illinois, Arkansas reported a 2.6% decline in medical marijuana sales during the first half of 2026 compared to the previous year, despite a 7.7% increase in active patient cards. ## Timeline ### 2026-08-15: Cannabis markets expand in Illinois and California Illinois and California continue to lead U.S. cannabis markets through established recreational and medical frameworks, despite ongoing conflicts with federal drug classifications. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/cannabis-markets-expand-in-illinois-and-california ### 2026-07-16: Illinois recreational cannabis sales rise slightly, Arkansas medical marijuana sales dip in June 2026 Illinois recreational cannabis sales hit $118 million in June 2026 with out‑of‑state purchases rising, while Arkansas medical marijuana sales fell 2.6% to $140 million in the first half of 2026. 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/illinois-recreational-cannabis-sales-rise-slightly-arkansas-medical-marijuana-sales-dip-in-june-2026 --- Cite as: US state-level cannabis market developments. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/us-state-level-cannabis-market-developments