{"componentChunkName":"component---common-build-tags-template-js","path":"/tag/cannabis-law/","result":{"data":{"allArticle":{"edges":[{"node":{"id":"Article_3898-markdown","title":"What are the Ohio Medical Marijuana Laws?","slug":"what-are-the-ohio-medical-marijuana-laws","content":"Marijuana is currently legal for **medical use in Ohio**, while adult-use cannabis is being pressured to be added to the 2022 ballot. For the time being, you are going to need a [medical marijuana card](https://hellomd.com/get-started/) to purchase cannabis in Ohio. \n\nLawmakers passed a law to establish a medical cannabis program for Ohioans in 2016. As of 2021, the program [benefits roughly 100,000 registered patients](https://www.mpp.org/states/ohio/) throughout the state.\n\nCannabis accessibility is a great first step for Ohio, but consumers must still understand that **marijuana is not fully legal in the state**, and there are still consequences for disobeying laws. \n\nThis post will dive into the nuanced laws of Ohio and break down what you need to do to follow the marijuana rules in the state. \n\n![iStock-1189150676-min.jpg](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/i_Stock_1189150676_min_01cdb30aa7.jpg)\n\n### What are the Requirements to Obtain a Medical Marijuana Card in Ohio?\n\nCurrently, **only medical marijuana is legal in Ohio**. That means you cannot just walk into a dispensary and purchase cannabis, you need to be a marijuana patient with a valid [medical card](https://hellomd.com/get-started/). \n\nThese are the requirements for patients to obtain a medical card in Ohio:\n\n- Both minors and adults can legally obtain a medical marijuana card. In Ohio, you can get a medical marijuana card for a minor with parental/guardian consent.\n- To get your card, an ID is required to prove identity (US Passport, Tribal ID, Driver's License or State ID.)\n- You must also provide proof of address (Bank statement, Utility bill, Correspondence with a state department).\n- Some physicians will also require medical records in order to grant a medical card. These include progress notes, a health summary, a list of diagnoses, a medication list (or pictures of prescription bottles).\n- In order to be granted access to medical marijuana in Ohio, you must be diagnosed with a qualifying medical condition and receive a recommendation from a [physician approved by the state](https://med.ohio.gov/Publications/CTR-Search). \n\nBelow are the qualifying conditions [according to the State of Ohio](https://med.ohio.gov/Medical-Marijuana-Resources):\n\n- AIDS\n- Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis\n- Alzheimer’s disease\n- Cachexia\n- Cancer\n- Chronic traumatic encephalopathy\n- Crohn’s disease\n- Epilepsy or another seizure disorder\n- Fibromyalgia\n- Glaucoma\n- Hepatitis C\n- Huntington’s disease\n- Inflammatory bowel disease\n- Multiple sclerosis\n- Pain that is either chronic and severe or intractable\n- Parkinson’s disease\n- Positive status for HIV\n- Post-traumatic stress disorder\n- Sickle cell anemia\n- Spasticity\n- Spinal cord disease or injury\n- Terminal illness\n- Tourette’s syndrome\n- Traumatic brain injury\n- Ulcerative colitis\n\nThe following basic info is required for patients to complete the registration form to receive a medical marijuana card in Ohio:\n\n1. Full name (First/Last)\n2. Gender (M/F/O)\n3. Date of birth \n4. Current physical address \n5. List your qualifying conditions\n6. Are you renewing an existing medical marijuana card?\n7. Are you a caregiver, or do you require one?\n8. Have you been diagnosed with schizophrenia or schizotypal conditions?\n9. You must upload your medical records\n10. Are you pregnant? (female only)\n11. Are you nursing? (female only) \n\n![Untitled9.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Untitled9_22700592eb.png)\n\n### What are the Laws for Medical Marijuana Patients in Ohio?\n\nThere are also specific laws for those who obtain a medical marijuana card and wish to legally consume cannabis in Ohio. \n\nThe State of Ohio Board of Pharmacy has adopted a resolution to permit medical marijuana dispensaries to conduct sales to patients and caregivers outside the dispensary via curbside pickup services.\n\n- Patients and caregivers are permitted by law to possess up to a 90-day supply of medical marijuana, to be determined by the physician. Per state law, a patient who purchases a 30-day supply from their first dispensary trip would be limited to no more than a 60-day supply of medical marijuana until 90 days after the initial purchase.\n\n- Smoking is not an approved method of delivery, as per HB 523. As per Ohio’s medical marijuana law, “Only the following forms of medical marijuana may be dispensed under this chapter: oils, tinctures, plant material, patches”. Vaping is allowed.\n  \n- Patients can now purchase MMJ in two 45-day windows rather than having to wait for 90 days. These orders can also be taken over the phone and arranged for curbside pickup to allow for safe social distancing practices.\n  \n- Even qualifying patients cannot grow cannabis in Ohio. All products must be bought from licensed dispensaries.\n \n- At the moment, Ohio does not recognize another state’s medical marijuana card. However, Ohio is working to develop a reciprocity program with states that recognize an Ohio medical marijuana identification card.\n \n- Registered marijuana patients are protected from arrest, prosecution, and discrimination in child custody matters. Registration status alone cannot be used as the basis for a DUI investigation, nor can patients be discriminated against when seeking either organ transplants or housing. \n \n- Employers do not have to accommodate employees’ on-site use, but prospective employers cannot refuse to hire due to a person’s registry status. \n \n- The above legal protections do not take effect until the patient has been issued a medical cannabis registration card.\n\n![iStock-1289597705-min.jpg](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/i_Stock_1289597705_min_5f3b7e1219.jpg)\n\n### How to Get a Medical Marijuana Card in Ohio\n\nSecuring a medical marijuana card in Ohio is the only way to legally consume cannabis in the state. \n\nFollow these steps to meet with a virtual physician and obtain your medical card:\n\n1.  Create an account using a valid email address and choosing a password. (You need to verify your account w/ a code on your phone).\n2.  You'll be asked to complete a brief questionnaire of personal and health information and to either take or upload a photograph of identification.\n3.  Pay for your online consultation ($199 1st time/$149 renewal). They are valid for one year.\n4.  You will need a smartphone, computer, or tablet with a reliable internet connection and a working camera to be seen by a provider.\n5.  Next, you will be taken to the virtual waiting room where you'll be connected to a provider for a video chat (i.e., a virtual doctor's visit).\n6.  You will receive a text message to your cell phone when the provider is ready to see you. During the video chat, the provider will assess your health situation to determine if you qualify for a medical marijuana certification.\n7.  If approved, you will be emailed the state Registry Card (Medical Marijuana Card) and will have to activate it via their email, which will contain a link to the registry. \n8.  Then create your own password for the health portal. \n9.  You will receive your Ohio MMJ card via email as soon as you pay the state card fee ($50).\n\nWhile the laws of cannabis are always changing. These basics will keep you protected and help you obtain your medical card in Ohio. \n\n### Get a Medical Marijuana Card Online\n\nIt's easy to get your medical marijuana document with the online [Telehealth service HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/get-started/ohio/). Register, pay, and receive an online medical consultation with a licensed practitioner and purchase medical cannabis today. You don't pay unless you're approved!\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/de01a4fb76075abdf9c551b9a500f895/ee604/1a59183b43ccd361eb7cfbca4f3668ef.png","srcSet":"/static/de01a4fb76075abdf9c551b9a500f895/69585/1a59183b43ccd361eb7cfbca4f3668ef.png 200w,\n/static/de01a4fb76075abdf9c551b9a500f895/497c6/1a59183b43ccd361eb7cfbca4f3668ef.png 400w,\n/static/de01a4fb76075abdf9c551b9a500f895/ee604/1a59183b43ccd361eb7cfbca4f3668ef.png 800w,\n/static/de01a4fb76075abdf9c551b9a500f895/f3583/1a59183b43ccd361eb7cfbca4f3668ef.png 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/de01a4fb76075abdf9c551b9a500f895/58556/1a59183b43ccd361eb7cfbca4f3668ef.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/de01a4fb76075abdf9c551b9a500f895/61e93/1a59183b43ccd361eb7cfbca4f3668ef.webp 200w,\n/static/de01a4fb76075abdf9c551b9a500f895/1f5c5/1a59183b43ccd361eb7cfbca4f3668ef.webp 400w,\n/static/de01a4fb76075abdf9c551b9a500f895/58556/1a59183b43ccd361eb7cfbca4f3668ef.webp 800w,\n/static/de01a4fb76075abdf9c551b9a500f895/99238/1a59183b43ccd361eb7cfbca4f3668ef.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_3770-markdown","title":"Public Marijuana Consumption Laws: A State by State Guide","slug":"public-marijuana-consumption-laws-a-state-by-state-guide","content":"To date, thirty six states and the District of Columbia have enacted legislation aimed at loosening restrictions on the use of cannabis for [medical or recreational purposes](https://hellomd.com/articles/the-difference-between-medical-and-recreational-cannabis).  But even though it may be legal to use cannabis openly in these states, laws still vary considerably from state to state – and federal laws prohibiting cannabis in any form are still in effect. That can make create considerable confusion about [what's legal](https://hellomd.com/articles/understanding-marijuana-laws-in-your-area) when it comes to using or buying cannabis products in any given state.\n\n### Marijuana Laws State-by-State Across the US\n\n![Marijuana laws state-by-state across the US](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_11_01_at_6_35_47_PM_c635a2951a.png)\n\n In some states, such as [Idaho](https://www.mpp.org/states/idaho/), all use and possession of cannabis is illegal. In contrast, others take a nuanced approach that might include allowing cannabis for medical use or a gradual phasing in of more liberal provisions.  As each state has its own laws regarding cannabis use, it's essential to be aware of the rules before you travel or try to order cannabis products from out-of-state companies.\n\nHere’s a [state-by-state rundown](https://disa.com/map-of-marijuana-legality-by-state)\n of current laws governing the public consumption and other uses of cannabis in all its forms.\n\n![Sweet Home Alabama - what are the cannabis laws in Alabama?](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_11_01_at_6_38_35_PM_3c44fbba4b.png)\n\n### Alabama\nIn February 2021, [Alabama](https://norml.org/laws/alabama-penalties/) approved the use of cannabis for medicinal purposes only. The state also prohibits smoking, vaping, and the use of whole plant cannabis products. Recreational use is completely prohibited.\n\n### Alaska\nCannabis has been fully legal in [Alaska](https://norml.org/laws/alaska-penalties/) since 2014, and Alaska is the first state to license businesses for the on-site consumption of cannabis products. The Marijuana Control Board regulates all establishments doing cannabis related business.\n\n### Arizona\nMedical cannabis has been legal in [Arizona](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cannabis_in_Arizona) since 2010, and in 2020, the state approved a proposition to legalize it entirely for recreational use. To qualify for medical cannabis, patients must be diagnosed with a \"listed\" condition.  On the recreational side, anyone 21 or older can purchase cannabis products at a licensed establishment, possess up to an ounce of cannabis, and cultivate up to six plants at home.\n\n### Arkansas\n[Arkansas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cannabis_in_Arkansas#:~:text=Cannabis%20in%20Arkansas%20is%20illegal,six%20month%20driver's%20license%20suspension.) approved a medical cannabis law in 2016, and cannabis products became available in dispensaries in 2019. Still, cannabis laws in Arkansas remain among the harshest in the US. Recreational use is outlawed, and possessing less than four ounces of cannabis can still carry heavy fines and up to a year in jail time.\n\n![What are California's state cannabis laws? Find out!](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_11_01_at_6_40_21_PM_7d865e8df3.png)\n\n### California\nMedical cannabis has been legal in [California](https://cannabis.ca.gov/resources/laws-and-regulations/) since 1996, and cannabis sales for adult recreational consumers became legal in 2016.  California now has one of the largest cannabis industries in the world.  But some areas still have local restrictions on cannabis use.\n\n### Colorado\nCannabis is fully legal in [Colorado](https://cannabis.colorado.gov/) for both recreational and medical purposes. Bills signed in 2019 allow both home delivery and on-site consumption of cannabis products, including cannabis cafes and designated places in hotels and restaurants for cannabis users.\n\n### Connecticut\n[Connecticut](https://norml.org/laws/connecticut-penalties/) made cannabis fully legal for recreation and medical uses in July 2021, but many of the law's provisions won't take effect until 2022 or later.  Current laws allow medical cannabis for a listed set of conditions that includes chronic pain. Adults can possess limited amounts of cannabis at home and on their person.\n\n### Delaware\n[Delaware](https://norml.org/laws/delaware-penalties/) allows the use of medical cannabis obtained from any of the state's \"Compassion Centers\" with a medical marijuana card. Possession of small amounts of cannabis is a civil violation with no jail time, but Delaware hasn't fully legalized cannabis yet.\n\n### District of Columbia\nThe [District of Columbia](https://mpdc.dc.gov/marijuana) allows cannabis for medical purposes when provided by a licensed dispensary. Those dispensaries can now accept medical marijuana cards or other official documents from any other state. For now, though, DC laws have no provisions for recreational cannabis use.\n\n![Florida has legalized cannabis - what are the laws?](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_11_01_at_6_42_09_PM_27a59b7c55.png)\n\n### Florida\n[Florida](https://norml.org/laws/florida-penalties/) sends a mixed message about cannabis. Sale or delivery of cannabis in certain areas near a school or park still qualifies as a felony, and possession of even a small amount is illegal. But medical cannabis is allowed if a doctor certifies that a patient suffers from a listed condition.\n\n### Georgia\nCannabis is completely illegal in [Georgia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cannabis_in_Georgia_(U.S._state)#:~:text=Cannabis%20in%20Georgia%20is%20illegal,containing%20less%20than%205%25%20THC.), except for a limited law that allows some cannabis-derived products with no more than 5 percent THC. Georgia still imposes jail time for possession of cannabis and has no compassionate use options for medical cannabis either.\n\n### Idaho\nCannabis in all its forms is completely illegal in [Idaho](https://odp.idaho.gov/marijuana/), with no provisions for medical use and stiff punishments for possession of cannabis. Activists are continuing to fight for legalization in upcoming elections.\n\n### Illinois\n[Illinois](https://www.mpp.org/states/illinois/overview-of-the-illinois-cannabis-regulation-and-tax-act/) fully legalized cannabis for adults in 2019. The state also took measures to expunge the records of people arrested in the past for cannabis possession. Now, people affected by the old \"war on cannabis\" can get extra help to start a cannabis-related business.\n\n### Indiana\nCannabis is illegal in [Indiana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cannabis_in_Indiana#:~:text=Cannabis%20in%20Indiana%20is%20illegal,fine%20of%20up%20to%20%241000.), even for medical uses, and possessing even a single joint can result in jail time and stiff fines.  But Indiana law does allow the use of low-THC CBD oil products derived from hemp for people with seizure disorders.\n\n### Iowa\n[Iowa](https://norml.org/act/iowa-marijuana-legalization-effort/) allows medical cannabis use for a limited list of conditions, including PTSD and chronic pain, with a cap of 4.5 grams of THC every 90 days.  On the recreational side, Iowa still imposes jail time and fines for cannabis possession, with some of the most severe penalties in the country.\n\n![What are the cannabis laws in Kansas? Find out!](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_11_01_at_6_44_17_PM_c9a8c013db.png)\n\n### Kansas\nCannabis containing THC is illegal in [Kansas](https://www.mpp.org/states/kansas/), but the state does allow CBD products that contain no THC for medical use. The state recently enacted an \"affirmative defense\" law that provides some limited protection for users of very low THC medical cannabis.\n\n### Kentucky\nSince 2014, [Kentucky](https://www.mpp.org/states/kentucky/) has allowed CBD-only products for medical use under a physician's direction, but cannabis products are outlawed in all other circumstances.\n\n### Louisiana\n[Louisiana](https://norml.org/laws/louisiana-penalties-2/) still bans the possession and use of cannabis outside of a limited list of medical purposes. The state recently loosened restrictions on medical use to include smoking and whole-plant flower.  \n\n### Maine\n[Maine](https://legislature.maine.gov/lawlibrary/recreational_marijuana_in_maine/9419) recently relaxed its cannabis laws to include both adult recreational use and more flexibility for medical use. Adult Mainers can legally possess and grow small amounts of cannabis, and retail cannabis stores can get licenses.\n\n### Maryland\nAdvocates are working for cannabis legalization in [Maryland](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cannabis_in_Maryland), but for now, the state only allows limited use of medical cannabis and no longer actively prosecutes marijuana possession.\n\n![What are the cannabis laws in Massachusetts? Find out!](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_11_01_at_6_45_20_PM_9fc3ccda5f.png)\n\n### Massachusetts\nCannabis has been fully legal in [Massachusetts](https://www.mass.gov/info-details/massachusetts-law-about-recreational-marijuana) since 2018 and now allows adult-use retail stores throughout the state.  Massachusetts also has a medical cannabis program for people with serious health issues.\n\n### Michigan\nCannabis became fully legal in [Michigan](https://norml.org/laws/michigan-penalties-2/#:~:text=An%20adult%20may%20possess%20up,marijuana%20cultivated%20on%20the%20premises.) in 2019, and the state allows licenses for on-site cannabis consumption in designated areas and at temporary events.  Michigan also supports medical cannabis use and has dropped fines and prison time for use or possession of cannabis.\n\n### Minnesota\nMedical cannabis is legal in [Minnesota](https://www.mnlawyerreferral.org/blog/what-should-i-know-about-marijuana-laws-in-minnesota/#:~:text=The%20possession%20or%20sale%20of,to%20five%20years%20in%20prison.), and that now includes smoking and raw flower. But although a measure to legalize cannabis for adult use won the vote in 2020, it hasn't been approved by the state legislature.\n\n### Mississippi\nMedical cannabis is legal in [Mississippi](https://norml.org/laws/mississippi-penalties-2/), and the state has decriminalized possession for personal use, with fines and a civil summons instead of jail time. But adult recreational use is still prohibited in the state.\n\n![What are the Missouri cannabis laws? Find out!](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_11_01_at_6_46_37_PM_93c0776464.png)\n\n### Missouri\n[Missouri](https://www.mpp.org/states/missouri/#:~:text=Legislation%20was%20approved%20in%202014,remains%20punishable%20by%20jail%20time.)  allows medical cannabis with a physician's approval for a select list of conditions, including home cultivation for patients and caregivers. But cultivation and possession of more than 10 grams of cannabis is still illegal, with jail time and heavy fines.\n\n### Montana\nCannabis is now fully legal in [Montana](https://mtrevenue.gov/2021/05/20/special-message-on-initiative-190-on-adult-use-marijuana/) for recreational and medical use, and the state expects to start issuing licenses for cannabis-related businesses in 2022.  The state also passed an initiative to expunge low-level cannabis offenses from arrest records.\n\n### Nebraska\n[Nebraska](https://norml.org/laws/nebraska-penalties-2/) recently decriminalized first-time cannabis possession, but possession and use of cannabis is still illegal, with a range of penalties for conviction.  Nebraska has no medical cannabis program and prohibits the cultivation of plants for any use.\n\n### Nevada\n[Nevada](https://www.shouselaw.com/nv/defense/laws/marijuana/#:~:text=Recreational%20marijuana%20is%20legal%20in,you%20are%20a%20licensed%20vendor.&text=In%202021%2C%20public%20consumption%20may,in%20licensed%20social%20use%20venues.) allows the use of both medical and recreational cannabis under some restrictions. The state licenses retail stores and allows cultivation for people who live 25 miles or more from a retail store. The state also allows possession of small amounts of cannabis.\n\n![What are the cannabis laws in New Hampshire? Find out!](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_11_01_at_6_48_03_PM_1afdfc8cf6.png)\n\n### New Hampshire\nMedical cannabis has been legal in [New Hampshire](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cannabis_in_New_Hampshire#:~:text=Cannabis%20in%20New%20Hampshire%20is,through%20legislation%20passed%20in%202013.) since 2013, but home cultivation for patients is still a felony, and there's no provision for adult use recreational cannabis in the state. New Hampshire also expunges low-level cannabis convictions from criminal records.\n\n### New Jersey\nCannabis is fully legal in [New Jersey](https://www.nj.gov/cannabis/) for medical and adult recreational use, but smoking in public is prohibited. Recent reforms have expanded access to cannabis for medical purposes, including home delivery.  \n\n### New Mexico\nCannabis is legal in [New Mexico](https://www.marijuanamoment.net/new-mexico-marijuana-legalization-law-officially-takes-effect/) for both adult recreational use and medical uses, and the state has expanded its list of eligible medical conditions.  Cannabis retail sales are expected to begin in the spring of 2022.\n\n### New York\nCannabis is fully legal in [New York](https://cannabis.ny.gov/adult-use) for recreational and medical purposes, and people can legally possess up to three ounces for personal use.  New York has also decriminalized possession of cannabis and automatically expunges past convictions.\n\n### North Carolina\n[North Carolina](https://www.capitalcriminaldefense.com/blog/2018/september/north-carolina-cannabis-laws/) has a state-regulated medical cannabis program that limits use to debilitating and terminal medical conditions. Still, recreational use remains illegal, with jail time and fines for possession of cannabis.\n\n### North Dakota\nRecreational adult-use cannabis is illegal in [North Dakota](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cannabis_in_North_Dakota), but the state has eliminated jail time for low-level possession offenses.  Medical cannabis is legal for a limited list of health conditions.\n\n![What are the cannabis laws in Ohio? Find out!](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_11_01_at_6_51_11_PM_abf121c216.png)\n\n### Ohio\nMedical cannabis has been legal in [Ohio](https://www.mpp.org/states/ohio/) with some restrictions since 2016, but recreational use, possession, and growing small amounts of cannabis are still illegal, with penalties ranging from fines to jail time.\n\n### Oklahoma\n[Oklahoma's](https://fordlawokc.com/oklahomas-current-marijuana-laws-2018/) medical cannabis program is one of the largest in the US, but recreational use is still prohibited, with  fines and/or jail time imposed for possession in most cities.\n\n### Oregon\nCannabis is fully legal for medical and adult recreational purposes in [Oregon](https://norml.org/laws/oregon-penalties-2/), and the state has decriminalized possession of cannabis for personal use.\n\n### Pennsylvania\nMedical cannabis is legal in [Pennsylvania](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cannabis_in_Pennsylvania#:~:text=Cannabis%20in%20Pennsylvania%20is%20illegal,passed%20by%20the%20state%20legislature.), but recreational use is still prohibited. In 2021, a number of bills were introduced in the state legislature to decriminalize possession of small amounts of cannabis and smoking cannabis in public.\n\n### Rhode Island\n[Rhode Island](https://norml.org/laws/rhode-island-penalties-2/) permits medical cannabis for registered patients to buy products from \"compassion centers\" and cultivate up to 12 cannabis plants. But although the state has decriminalized possession of small amounts, recreational use is still prohibited.\n\n### South Carolina\nCannabis use for any purpose is illegal in [South Carolina](https://norml.org/laws/south-carolina-penalties-2/), including medical cannabis.\n\n### South Dakota\n[South Dakota](https://medcannabis.sd.gov/) is the first state to adopt medical marijuana and legalize adult recreational use in the same election. Medical cannabis is now legal for patients with specific conditions, but recreational use is still prohibited, with fines and jail time for possession of cannabis.\n\n### Tennessee\nCannabis remains illegal for all purposes in [Tennessee](https://norml.org/laws/tennessee-penalties-2/), but the state allows low THC cannabis oil for seizure patients only.  Tennessee continues to block decriminalization for possession of even small amounts of cannabis.\n\n![What are the cannabis laws in Texas? Find out!](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_11_01_at_6_53_01_PM_aae9a3a1e9.png)\n\n### Texas\n[Texas](https://www.houstonpublicmedia.org/articles/news/politics/2021/09/02/407648/new-medical-marijuana-law-goes-into-effect-expanding-access-to-cancer-patients-and-texans-with-ptsd/#:~:text=New%20medical%20marijuana%20rules%20in,ingredient%20that%20gets%20people%20high.&text=The%20law%20also%20doubled%20the,from%200.5%25%20to%201%25.) has a limited medical cannabis program that allows low-THC products for specific health conditions, but recreational use remains illegal.\n\n### Utah\n[Utah](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cannabis_in_Utah#:~:text=Cannabis%20in%20Utah%20is%20illegal,was%20passed%20in%20March%202018.) approved cannabis for medical purposes in 2018, but recreational cannabis remains prohibited, with jail time and fines still on the books for simple possession.\n\n### Vermont\n[Vermont](https://norml.org/laws/vermont-penalties-2/) legalized the possession and cultivation of limited amounts of cannabis for recreational purposes in 2018 and passed a bill that requires automatic expungement of all offenses for cannabis possession.  Medical cannabis is also legal for a list of qualifying conditions.\n\n### Virginia\nMedical and recreational cannabis is legal in [Virginia](https://www.cannabis.virginia.gov/), with licensed sales set to begin in 2024. Now, adults can legally possess and share up to one ounce of cannabis and cultivate up to four plants, and medical cannabis patients can use whole-plant cannabis for approved conditions.\n\n![What are the cannabis laws in Washington? Find out!](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_11_01_at_6_54_28_PM_a96b0333cd.png)\n\n### Washington\n[Washington](https://norml.org/laws/washington-penalties-2/) state legalized adult-use cannabis in 2012, but penalties remain for cultivating it at home and consuming it in public places. Anyone can legally buy cannabis in Washington, but it's illegal to take it out of the state.\n\n### West Virginia\n[West Virginia](https://dhhr.wv.gov/bph/Pages/Medical-Cannabis-Program.aspx) has allowed medical cannabis since 2017, but its system is still not fully operational. \nIn all forms, cannabis for recreational use is still illegal and possession is criminalized.\n\n### Wisconsin\n[Wisconsin](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cannabis_in_Wisconsin#:~:text=Cannabis%20in%20Wisconsin%20is%20illegal,up%20to%20a%20%2410%2C000%20fine.) has a limited medical cannabis law that allows only CBD products and no provisions for legal recreational cannabis. Wisconsin still imposes jail time for cannabis possession.\n\n### Wyoming\nIn [Wyoming](https://norml.org/laws/wyoming-penalties-2/), cannabis is illegal for both medical and recreational purposes. As of 2021, Wyoming still imposes jail time for simple cannabis possession.\n\nThe United States is a patchwork of different laws and attitudes toward cannabis, and the line between legal and illegal access isn't always clear. But advocates for both \"compassionate use\" medical cannabis laws and legalization of cannabis for adults are working for equal access for everyone who wants to use cannabis for any reason at all.\n\nIf you are new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's 100% online, private, and efficient.  ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.5037593984962405,"src":"/static/acf29eca1ae1777de8843d5e2fb88211/14b42/b77262eaa647e95463a8e051410fe803.jpg","srcSet":"/static/acf29eca1ae1777de8843d5e2fb88211/f836f/b77262eaa647e95463a8e051410fe803.jpg 200w,\n/static/acf29eca1ae1777de8843d5e2fb88211/2244e/b77262eaa647e95463a8e051410fe803.jpg 400w,\n/static/acf29eca1ae1777de8843d5e2fb88211/14b42/b77262eaa647e95463a8e051410fe803.jpg 800w,\n/static/acf29eca1ae1777de8843d5e2fb88211/47498/b77262eaa647e95463a8e051410fe803.jpg 1200w,\n/static/acf29eca1ae1777de8843d5e2fb88211/0e329/b77262eaa647e95463a8e051410fe803.jpg 1600w,\n/static/acf29eca1ae1777de8843d5e2fb88211/c033a/b77262eaa647e95463a8e051410fe803.jpg 4288w","srcWebp":"/static/acf29eca1ae1777de8843d5e2fb88211/58556/b77262eaa647e95463a8e051410fe803.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/acf29eca1ae1777de8843d5e2fb88211/61e93/b77262eaa647e95463a8e051410fe803.webp 200w,\n/static/acf29eca1ae1777de8843d5e2fb88211/1f5c5/b77262eaa647e95463a8e051410fe803.webp 400w,\n/static/acf29eca1ae1777de8843d5e2fb88211/58556/b77262eaa647e95463a8e051410fe803.webp 800w,\n/static/acf29eca1ae1777de8843d5e2fb88211/99238/b77262eaa647e95463a8e051410fe803.webp 1200w,\n/static/acf29eca1ae1777de8843d5e2fb88211/7c22d/b77262eaa647e95463a8e051410fe803.webp 1600w,\n/static/acf29eca1ae1777de8843d5e2fb88211/99bdc/b77262eaa647e95463a8e051410fe803.webp 4288w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_3751-markdown","title":"Where are the New York Weed Dispensaries Located?","slug":"where-are-the-new-york-weed-dispensaries-located","content":"\nGood news! The regulatory framework for adult-use, or recreational, cannabis in New York continues to evolve and make strides forward. \n \nThat said, the sales of recreational weed in New York state still have a ways to go. New Yorkers won’t see recreational marijuana for another eighteen months to two years. In addition, neither adult users or certified medical marijuana patients may legally grow cannabis for personal use --those regulations are on the backburner, not deliverable until up to eighteen months AFTER the first adult-use retail sale. \n \n![Screen Shot 2021-09-28 at 3.04.22 PM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_09_28_at_3_04_22_PM_4dc124ff05.png)\n\nColumbia Care has created [Ceed Science](https://col-care.com/ceed/) a pharmaceutical grade medical cannabis brand.\n\n### Where Can You Get Weed in New York Today?\n \nThere are 40 medical marijuana dispensaries throughout New York State, with tested cannabis products for your medical needs, waiting to serve you. \n\nIn addition, the list of [qualifying conditions for the Medical Marijuana](https://norml.org/laws/medical-laws/new-york-medical-marijuana-law/) program in New York has been expanded. Also, taxes on medical cannabis are minimal and stand at only 7%.  To qualify for the program, you must be 18+ years, or have a parent or legal guardian sign up as your caregiver.\n \nA bonus: If you see your doctor for any issue and also request a medical cannabis certification, your [private insurance may cover](https://www.dfs.ny.gov/reports_and_publications/press_releases/pr1704121) the visit. \n\nIf you do not feel comfortable talking to your GP about cannabis, or your GP does not feel comfortable offering a recommendation, you can easily see a doctor online. You may see a licensed healthcare professional from the privacy of your own home through a private Telehealth appointment with [HelloMD](https://hellomd.com/get-started/). You won't even pay for the consultation unless you are approved!\n \n### Signing Up for the New York Medical Marijuana Program\n\nOnce your doctor gives you your Medical Marijuana Program Certification Form, you’ll sign up for [New York’s Medical Marijuana Registry](https://my.ny.gov/). At this time, you may also register a caregiver who can purchase cannabis on your behalf. \n\nNote: in addition to allowing as many as five caregivers per patient (up from three), New York has also expanded its definition of caregiver to include ‘Designated Caregiver Facilities,’ wherein the function of caregiver may be assigned to a facility — e.g., a hospital, mental health center, adult care center or public or private school. \n \nAfter registering, you’ll print your temporary card and be able to go to a New York state-sanctioned medical marijuana dispensary to purchase up to a 60-day supply (upped recently from 30-day supply). \n \n### Where are the New York Marijuana Dispensaries?\n\nThere are ten cannabis-dispensary operators in the state of New York, each with multiple dispensaries. As one might expect, New York County has the most dispensaries of any other county in the Empire State, with four dispensaries.\n\nHere's a comprehensive listing of dispensaries Discover [near you](https://www.health.ny.gov/regulations/medical_marijuana/application/selected_applicants.htm). \n \n![Screen Shot 2021-09-28 at 3.03.38 PM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_09_28_at_3_03_38_PM_2244b7701e.png)\n\n\n[Columbia Care](https://col-care.com/location/manhattan/)\n\n212 East 14th Street\nNew York NY 10003\n646.453.7178\nKings County, Monroe and Suffolk locations\n \n![Screen Shot 2021-09-28 at 3.02.58 PM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_09_28_at_3_02_58_PM_b009f9c90a.png)\n\n[Etain](https://etainhealth.com/locations/)\n242 East 58th Street\nNew York, NY 10022\n914.437.7898\nUlster, Onondaga, Westchester locations\n \n![Screen Shot 2021-09-28 at 3.01.59 PM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_09_28_at_3_01_59_PM_b4fb26d717.png)\n\n[FP Wellness](https://fpwellnessny.com/medical-marijuana-dispensary-nyc/)\n2E 30th Street \nNew York NY 10016\n212.689.8676\nNassau, Monroe, Saratoga locations\n\n![Screen Shot 2021-09-28 at 3.00.42 PM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_09_28_at_3_00_42_PM_cf0fab14f8.png)\n\n[MedMen](https://medmen.com/ny/)\n433 Fifth Avenue\nNew YorkNY 10016\n646.846.5551\nOnondaga, Eerie, Nassau locations\n\nOnondaga County, in the Syracuse area, has three dispensaries. In addition to MedMen and Etain, you can visit:\n\n![Screen Shot 2021-09-28 at 2.59.23 PM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_09_28_at_2_59_23_PM_8eb5e52cfb.png)\n\n[Verilife](https://www.verilife.com/ny/location/liverpool)\n642 Old Liverpool Road\nLiverpool NY 13088\n888.493.6066\n(Also see Erie, Albany, Bronx County locations)\n\n\nKings County also has three dispensaries. In addition to Columbia Care, check out:\n[Be](https://bestores.com/brooklyn/)\n202 Flatbush Ave, \nBrooklyn, NY 11217\n212.257.3145\n(also see Dutchess and Richmond County locations)\n\n![Screen Shot 2021-09-28 at 9.19.45 PM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_09_28_at_9_19_45_PM_0076e30114.png)\n\n[Sunnyside Shop](https://www.sunnyside.shop/store/williamsburg-ny)\n178 North 4th Street\nBrooklyn, NY 11211\n929.299.5932\n(Also see Rockland, Oneida, Suffolk County locations\n\n### What is the Regulatory Landscape in New York for Recreational Cannabis?\n\nLongtime cannabis activist Christopher Alexander was appointed as Executive Director of the Office of Cannabis Management (OCM). Assemblymember Tremaine Wright was appointed as Chair of the Cannabis Control Board (CCB). Both were swiftly confirmed by the senate. \n \nNow, the four-person CCB is also officially staffed. Members include:\n\nFormer state senator and clean energy activist [Jen Metzger](https://www.nysenate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/former-rosendale-senator-jen-metzger-appointed-cannabis-control-board)\nBuffalo-based employment attorney [Adam Perry](https://nypost.com/2021/09/08/2nd-member-named-to-ny-cannabis-board-has-weed-experience/)\nAppointed President and CEO of DASNY [Reuben R. McDaniel, III](https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/governor-hochul-announces-appointments-office-cannabis-management-board), and \nAssistant to the President of the UFCW and immigrant champion [Jessica Garcia](https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/governor-hochul-announces-appointments-office-cannabis-management-board)\n \nWith Governor Kathy Hochul’s creation of the CCB and the OCM, the deadline for completion of the regulatory framework for legal recreational weed in New York is set for March 1, 2022.\n\n### Need Your Medical Marijuana Card?\n[HelloMD](https://hellomd.com/get-started/) can help you with online virtual medical consultation and get your medical card fast, easy and private.","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.5037593984962405,"src":"/static/4737d132064ae2795c4d92df6a96da68/14b42/f4b1a6ef347586e3d02e08526290ac7a.jpg","srcSet":"/static/4737d132064ae2795c4d92df6a96da68/f836f/f4b1a6ef347586e3d02e08526290ac7a.jpg 200w,\n/static/4737d132064ae2795c4d92df6a96da68/2244e/f4b1a6ef347586e3d02e08526290ac7a.jpg 400w,\n/static/4737d132064ae2795c4d92df6a96da68/14b42/f4b1a6ef347586e3d02e08526290ac7a.jpg 800w,\n/static/4737d132064ae2795c4d92df6a96da68/47498/f4b1a6ef347586e3d02e08526290ac7a.jpg 1200w,\n/static/4737d132064ae2795c4d92df6a96da68/0e329/f4b1a6ef347586e3d02e08526290ac7a.jpg 1600w,\n/static/4737d132064ae2795c4d92df6a96da68/f2689/f4b1a6ef347586e3d02e08526290ac7a.jpg 7952w","srcWebp":"/static/4737d132064ae2795c4d92df6a96da68/58556/f4b1a6ef347586e3d02e08526290ac7a.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/4737d132064ae2795c4d92df6a96da68/61e93/f4b1a6ef347586e3d02e08526290ac7a.webp 200w,\n/static/4737d132064ae2795c4d92df6a96da68/1f5c5/f4b1a6ef347586e3d02e08526290ac7a.webp 400w,\n/static/4737d132064ae2795c4d92df6a96da68/58556/f4b1a6ef347586e3d02e08526290ac7a.webp 800w,\n/static/4737d132064ae2795c4d92df6a96da68/99238/f4b1a6ef347586e3d02e08526290ac7a.webp 1200w,\n/static/4737d132064ae2795c4d92df6a96da68/7c22d/f4b1a6ef347586e3d02e08526290ac7a.webp 1600w,\n/static/4737d132064ae2795c4d92df6a96da68/1dd58/f4b1a6ef347586e3d02e08526290ac7a.webp 7952w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_3749-markdown","title":"In the News: New York Marijuana Legalization 2021","slug":"in-the-news-new-york-marijuana-legalization-2021","content":"In January, 2018, as part of New York’s state budget, then-New York Governor Andrew Cuomo commissioned a Public Health Study on cannabis. The report’s focus was to examine the potential impacts of expanding the medical marijuana program into recreational marijuana in New York. Cuomo made it very clear he, himself, was NOT an advocate of cannabis, too-often touting the outdated good-old-boy ‘[gateway drug](https://www.politico.com/states/new-york/albany/story/2017/02/cuomo-says-he-remains-opposed-to-recreational-marijuana-109436)’\n argument against the plant. \n \nBut he could see the writing on the wall and was sweating peer-pressure from the encroachers: from the east — Massachusetts, where adult-use cannabis passed in 2016; Vermont, from the far side of the Adirondacks — an early-adopter of medical weed (2004), where\n possession and cultivation were decriminalized en route to full legalization (which would pass in 2020); and from the north, weed-loving Canada. Even New Jersey was on the fast-track to full legalization. The very thought of New Yorkers breaking the law to\n bring Jersey weed into New York must have been, well, unthinkable. \n \n### Easing Weed Restrictions in New York is Better for the Empire State\n\nThe [impact assessment](https://perma.cc/DV57-8UKK), completed seven months later, concluded that potential benefits of legal weed in the Empire State outweighed any potential negative impacts. Easing research restrictions would allow for further study of the plant’s efficacy, and of course, there was the shit-ton of potential tax revenue for the state. The report also concluded that legalizing marijuana would give New York an opportunity to address the glaring racial disparity in marijuana convictions and reduce “disproportionate criminalization and incarceration of certain racial and ethnic minority communities.” \n \nLocal jurisdictions created task forces to identify goals and challenges for full legalization. By the end of the year, NYC Mayor Bill DeBlasio’s task force [released recommendations](http://criminaljustice.cityofnewyork.us/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/A-Fair-Approach-to-Marijuana.pdf)\n for legal weed in the Big Apple, the primary focus of which was safety, health, and equity.\n \n### The New York Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act\n\nIn 2019, adult-use legalization in New York stalled, but lawmakers passed a bill decriminalizing small amounts of marijuana and beginning the process of expunging previous convictions for cannabis possession. Finally, in March of 2021, as he was entering the fight against sexual misconduct allegations (that would end his tenure as governor), Cuomo signed the Legislature-passed Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act, legalizing cannabis in the state of New York. \n \nImmediately, New Yorkers 21+ were allowed to:\n\n- smoke cannabis anywhere tobacco smoking is\n allowed (not near schools, at the workplace, or in a car), \n- legally carry up to three ounces of cannabis\n or 24 grams of concentrate, and \n- store up to five pounds of weed at home. \n \nMRTA also set forth the automatic expungement of prior convictions for anyone possessing less than one pound or selling less than 25 grams (0.88 ounces) of cannabis, an action that will bring the cannabis expungement numbers in New York up into the 300,000 range. In addition, New York’s cannabis program includes a [social and economic equity plan](https://www.thsh.com/uploads/NYLJ-Social-Equity-The-Driver-Behind-New-Yorks-Cannabis-Program.pdf), whereby 50% of business licenses will be prioritized for applicants from socially- and economically-disadvantaged groups.\n \n### Cannabis Consumption Lounges in New York\n\nMRTA, unlike the defeated Cuomo-backed Cannabis and Taxation Act (CRTA), also allows for consumption lounges. This was great news to organizers of New York’s underground weed party scene. While the [Office of Cannabis Management](https://cannabis.ny.gov/)\n (OCM), and Cannabis Control Board (CCB), is slowly being staffed to get the rules of legalization ready by early next year, ‘speakeasy’ membership-only consumption lounges like are taking advantage of the in-between times.\nCannabis membership clubs like [The\n Bowery](https://bowerycannabisclub.com/pages/about-us),\n [Empire Cannabis Club](https://empirecannabisclubs.com/),\n The Astor Club and [SpleefNYC](https://www.spleefnyc.com/),\n have increased visibility beyond cryptic social\n media posts to take cater to weed-needs of the impatient. \n \nMeanwhile, on the medical side: Certified medical cannabis patients received immediate benefits in MRTA, including an [expanded list of qualifying conditions](https://www.health.ny.gov/regulations/medical_marijuana/patients/)\n and acceptable medical marijuana purchase amounts doubling from a 30-day to a 60-day supply.\n \n### Where to Buy Legal Medical Weed in New York\n\nCertified patients can purchase medicine tested for purity and potency today at New York Medical Marijuana dispensaries like: \n\n![Screen Shot 2021-09-20 at 2.46.23 PM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_09_20_at_2_46_23_PM_6fcb259498.png)\n\nVerilife dispensaries are found throughout New York state.\n\n- [Curaleaf](https://curaleaf.com/) \n\n- [Verilife](https://www.verilife.com/ny),\n and \n\n- [FPWellness](https://fpwellnessny.com/) \n\n\n### Need Your Medical Marijuana Card?\n[HelloMD](https://hellomd.com/get-started/) can help you with online virtual medical consultation and get your medical card fast, easy and private. If you're NOT approved, the consultation is free!","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.5037593984962405,"src":"/static/b613f2e52b8d41059ef7bd25ea96ecc0/14b42/ae5e49a176f24eecd35ac0d1a85f63a4.jpg","srcSet":"/static/b613f2e52b8d41059ef7bd25ea96ecc0/f836f/ae5e49a176f24eecd35ac0d1a85f63a4.jpg 200w,\n/static/b613f2e52b8d41059ef7bd25ea96ecc0/2244e/ae5e49a176f24eecd35ac0d1a85f63a4.jpg 400w,\n/static/b613f2e52b8d41059ef7bd25ea96ecc0/14b42/ae5e49a176f24eecd35ac0d1a85f63a4.jpg 800w,\n/static/b613f2e52b8d41059ef7bd25ea96ecc0/47498/ae5e49a176f24eecd35ac0d1a85f63a4.jpg 1200w,\n/static/b613f2e52b8d41059ef7bd25ea96ecc0/0e329/ae5e49a176f24eecd35ac0d1a85f63a4.jpg 1600w,\n/static/b613f2e52b8d41059ef7bd25ea96ecc0/c128d/ae5e49a176f24eecd35ac0d1a85f63a4.jpg 5760w","srcWebp":"/static/b613f2e52b8d41059ef7bd25ea96ecc0/58556/ae5e49a176f24eecd35ac0d1a85f63a4.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/b613f2e52b8d41059ef7bd25ea96ecc0/61e93/ae5e49a176f24eecd35ac0d1a85f63a4.webp 200w,\n/static/b613f2e52b8d41059ef7bd25ea96ecc0/1f5c5/ae5e49a176f24eecd35ac0d1a85f63a4.webp 400w,\n/static/b613f2e52b8d41059ef7bd25ea96ecc0/58556/ae5e49a176f24eecd35ac0d1a85f63a4.webp 800w,\n/static/b613f2e52b8d41059ef7bd25ea96ecc0/99238/ae5e49a176f24eecd35ac0d1a85f63a4.webp 1200w,\n/static/b613f2e52b8d41059ef7bd25ea96ecc0/7c22d/ae5e49a176f24eecd35ac0d1a85f63a4.webp 1600w,\n/static/b613f2e52b8d41059ef7bd25ea96ecc0/ec000/ae5e49a176f24eecd35ac0d1a85f63a4.webp 5760w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_3748-markdown","title":"What Are The Pennsylvania Weed Dispensary Rules?","slug":"what-are-the-pennsylvania-weed-dispensary-rules","content":"Using weed in Pennsylvania can be a high-wire act. If you follow the right procedures, and become a medical marijuana patient, then you can become eligible to get a supply from one of the [state-sanctioned dispensaries](https://www.health.pa.gov/topics/Documents/Programs/Medical%20Marijuana/Medical%20Marijuana%20Dispensaries%20in%20Pennsylvania%20with%20Product.pdf) However, if you don't follow the state regulations exactly or are a recreational user, you may find yourself fined or arrested. In this article, we will explore how to get you on the right side of the law and [how to become a medical marijuana patient](https://hellomd.com/get-started/pennsylvania/) in Pennsylvania.\n\nPennsylvania has passed medical marijuana for qualifying patients but has not passes \"adult-use\" or recreational use of cannabis. That said, the times may be a-changin'. With the maneuvering for the 2022 Pennsylvania U.S. Senate race already begun, a number of Democratic candidates have started pushing for broader legalization. Leading the pack is current Lt. Gov. John Fetterman, who has made legalization a core issue in his campaign.\n\n\"It never should have been illegal in the first place. This is a plant with no known medical overdose,\" [Fetterman said in an interview with Forbes](https://www.forbes.com/sites/ajherrington/2021/09/17/pennsylvania-senate-hopeful-john-fetterman-says-legal-weed-is-key-to-democrats-success/?sh=2221468d3ebd) \"This is a plant now that's helped 350,000 people, just in my state alone, with their medical issues,\" referring to Pennsylvanians using medical cannabis, which was legalized in the state in 2016.\n\n![Screen Shot 2021-09-17 at 2.49.06 PM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_09_17_at_2_49_06_PM_1f05531bf3.png)\n\n[Columbia Care](https://col-care.com/location/scranton/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=gmb-website-scranton&utm_content=website_button) is a legal medical marijuana dispensary in Scranton, Pennsylvania.\n\n### How to Become a Medical Weed Patient in Pennsylvania\n\nWhile medical use of weed is legal in Pennsylvania, a [local law firm points out](https://www.forbes.com/sites/ajherrington/2021/09/17/pennsylvania-senate-hopeful-john-fetterman-says-legal-weed-is-key-to-democrats-success/?sh=2221468d3ebd): \"Possession of marijuana for recreational purposes is still illegal in this state, and failure to comply with the medical marijuana laws can be considered 'recreational' use, even when you intended to follow the law and use it for medical purposes.\"\n\nAs with [any state authorizing the use of cannabis](https://hellomd.com/articles/cannabis-in-america-a-state-by-state-guide), residents of Pennsylvania need to be aware of the steps they must follow to become a medical marijuana patient, and how they acquired products from dispensaries and handle them afterwards.\n\nTo [become a patient in Pennsylvania](https://www.pa.gov/guides/pennsylvania-medical-marijuana-program/#HowtoGetMedicalMarijuana), you have to register on the Department of Health website, with a valid Pennsylvania driver's license or state-issued ID.\n\nOnce your account is created, you can see a doctor registered to certify cannabis patients with the Pennsylvania Department of Health. While the department has a list of qualified physicians, you can also go through [HelloMD to get a Medical Card](https://hellomd.com/get-started/pennsylvania/). Using this Telehealth services, you can arrange for an appointment with a qualified practitioner, who will answer any questions you may have via your computer, smartphone or tablet, and then lead you through the process of obtaining your medical documentation.\n\n![Screen Shot 2021-09-17 at 2.51.30 PM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_09_17_at_2_51_30_PM_9fb1ecc1eb.png)\n\n[AMBER](https://amberconcentrates.com/) is a Pennsylvania brand offering high terpene extract vape pens.\n\nWhile many doctors are not yet fully informed about weed's medical benefits, this is the specialty of HelloMD practitioners. Your healthcare practitioner will give you information and help you decide if cannabis is right for you.\n\nOnly people suffering from one or more of the following medical conditions can participate in Pennsylvania's medical marijuana program:\n\n- Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis\n- Anxiety disorders\n- Autism\n- Cancer, including remission therapy\n- Crohn's disease\n- Damage to the nervous tissue of the central nervous system (brain-spinal cord) with objective neurological indication of intractable spasticity, and other associated neuropathies\n- Dyskinetic and spastic movement disorders\n- Epilepsy\n- Glaucoma\n- HIV / AIDS\n- Huntington's disease\n- Inflammatory bowel disease\n- Intractable seizures\n- Multiple sclerosis\n- Neurodegenerative diseases\n- Neuropathy\n- Opioid use disorder for which conventional therapeutic interventions are contraindicated or ineffective, or for which adjunctive therapy is indicated in combination with primary therapeutic interventions\n- Parkinson's disease\n- Post-traumatic stress disorder\n- Severe chronic or intractable pain of neuropathic origin or severe chronic or intractable pain\n- Sickle cell anemia\n- Terminal illness\n- Tourette syndrome\n\nAfter your registration is completed, you will receive an email from the Pennsylvania Department of Health detailing the steps remaining to receive your patient ID card, which has a $50 fee. There are also procedures in place to allow minors, through a parent or legal guardian, and caregivers (on behalf of a patient) to get access to medical cannabis.\n\n### Limits on Buying Medical Marijuana in Pennsylvania\n\nSanctioned weed dispensaries are allowed to sell up to a 30 day supply of the medicine to a qualified patient. They must keep accurate records of each amount obtained. Patients can then \"re-up\" their 30 days supplies in the last seven days of the amount they have.\n\nGoing over the 30-day supply amount is illegal under Pennsylvania drug possession laws and can trigger law enforcement action. Apparently, possession of 30 grams or less of marijuana is a misdemeanor, carrying  the possible penalties of 30 days in jail and a fine of up to $500. Possession of more than 30 grams of cannabis can result in up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $5,000.\n\nAlmost the only place you can consume the weed is in your private residence, though in some cases you can take it at work, if your employer permits it. As a registered patient, you can transport your medical marijuana products in a car, within state lines, out of reach, in a closed, sealed container.\n\nYour 30-day supply of medical cannabis can include:\n\n- Cannabis flower\n- Creams\n- Gels\n- Liquids\n- Oils\n- Ointments\n- Pills\n- Tinctures\n\nWeed flower is the most recent addition to the approved list in Pennsylvania and was previously unavailable. But it is important to note that smoking a cannabis flower is still illegal. To be used medicinally, it must be consumed by vaping.\n\n### Need Your Medical Marijuana Card in Pennsylvania?\n\n[HelloMD](https://hellomd.com/get-started/pennsylvania/) can help you with online virtual medical consultation and get your Pennsylvania  medical card quickly and easily, with your privacy protected. ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.492537313432836,"src":"/static/d659a5c2934803687c29aa81aa335530/14b42/4713f0236e2539393618c83f0d73aa05.jpg","srcSet":"/static/d659a5c2934803687c29aa81aa335530/f836f/4713f0236e2539393618c83f0d73aa05.jpg 200w,\n/static/d659a5c2934803687c29aa81aa335530/2244e/4713f0236e2539393618c83f0d73aa05.jpg 400w,\n/static/d659a5c2934803687c29aa81aa335530/14b42/4713f0236e2539393618c83f0d73aa05.jpg 800w,\n/static/d659a5c2934803687c29aa81aa335530/47498/4713f0236e2539393618c83f0d73aa05.jpg 1200w,\n/static/d659a5c2934803687c29aa81aa335530/0e329/4713f0236e2539393618c83f0d73aa05.jpg 1600w,\n/static/d659a5c2934803687c29aa81aa335530/2d2a6/4713f0236e2539393618c83f0d73aa05.jpg 5028w","srcWebp":"/static/d659a5c2934803687c29aa81aa335530/58556/4713f0236e2539393618c83f0d73aa05.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/d659a5c2934803687c29aa81aa335530/61e93/4713f0236e2539393618c83f0d73aa05.webp 200w,\n/static/d659a5c2934803687c29aa81aa335530/1f5c5/4713f0236e2539393618c83f0d73aa05.webp 400w,\n/static/d659a5c2934803687c29aa81aa335530/58556/4713f0236e2539393618c83f0d73aa05.webp 800w,\n/static/d659a5c2934803687c29aa81aa335530/99238/4713f0236e2539393618c83f0d73aa05.webp 1200w,\n/static/d659a5c2934803687c29aa81aa335530/7c22d/4713f0236e2539393618c83f0d73aa05.webp 1600w,\n/static/d659a5c2934803687c29aa81aa335530/30780/4713f0236e2539393618c83f0d73aa05.webp 5028w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2841-markdown","title":"Will Legal Cannabis States Clear Past Marijuana Convictions?","slug":"will-legal-cannabis-states-clear-past-marijuana-convictions","content":"If suffering lies at the core of all great tragedy, then those convicted of marijuana offenses have realized more than their share, facing such humiliations as having trouble getting jobs, housing and loans. But what’s happening in states where cannabis is now legal? Are people with cannabis convictions still penalized by marijuana laws that no longer exist? \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### Vermonters Can Clear Their Cannabis Records—But They Have to Initiate the Process\n\nIn Vermont, for example, 31-year-old lighting designer Joshua Rowe claims that two past misdemeanor convictions have prevented him from taking jobs in Canada, because of his well-founded fear that he may be denied entry.\n\nHe says: “There are jobs I don’t even want to attempt to take, because it will look bad on my record if I get denied going into Canada for a job. [These old [cannabis] charges are holding me back](https://www.boston.com/news/politics/2018/06/22/marijuana-legalization-convictions).”\n\nOn July 1, Vermont became the ninth state to legalize recreational marijuana. Vermont now allows adults to possess an ounce of marijuana, two mature plants and four immature plants. More and more people such as Joshua who are living in cannabis-friendly states are seeking forgiveness for past marijuana misdemeanor convictions, so they can stop living their lives under a cloud.\n\n### Some Folks Aren’t Aware of or Can’t Afford Cannabis Forgiveness \n\nThese nine states are moving towards—or already have mechanisms in place—allowing people to apply to have their records expunged. Last year, Colorado approved a bill that enables people convicted of misdemeanor marijuana possession before Dec. 10, 2012, to petition to have their convictions sealed. This means that convictions wouldn’t be accessible to the public or they’d be destroyed. \n\nIn Maryland, people can also petition for expungement. Meanwhile in Oregon, judges are now directed to take the current law into account—stating that possessing and selling marijuana is legal—when they’re deciding whether to change a person’s criminal record.\n\nThe trouble is that minorities and low-income people are disproportionately arrested for drug offenses. In California, for example, [police arrested African Americans for marijuana offenses at more than twice the rate of Latinos in 2015, and more than triple the rate of Caucasians](https://www.sacbee.com/news/politics-government/capitol-alert/article197967114.html). \n\nOften these police targets haven’t heard about the possibility of getting clemency, or if they have, they often can’t afford the money, time and legal headaches required to make those petitions. \n\nRELATED: [KEY NY PLAYERS PUSH FOR CANNABIS DECRIMINIALIZATION & LEGALIZATION](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5aecfde9b869a6000796590c/key-ny-players-push-for-cannabis-decriminalization-and-legalization)\n\n### California Leads the Way in Forgiving Marijuana Convictions\n\nNot surprisingly, California leads the way in forgiveness of past cannabis offenses. Assembly Bill 1793 is currently waiting for Governor Jerry Brown’s signature to be passed into law. Assembly member Rob Bonta, D-Oakland, introduced the bill as a response to 2016’s Proposition 64, legalizing recreational marijuana use for those 21 and older.\n\nWhile the proposition allows for “resentencing and destruction of records for prior marijuana convictions,” it doesn’t specify a process of how to do this. So, enter Bill 1793, placing the responsibility of reviewing and expunging convictions on the state—not those convicted.\n\nWith a deadline of July 1, 2019, the state department of justice must search its database for eligible cases from 1975 to 2016, sending them to district attorneys for review. District attorneys then have exactly one year to challenge any case that they don’t agree is eligible for resentencing. Cases unchallenged or surviving the review process would automatically have their sentences expunged or reduced. \n\n“Long after paying their debt to society, [people shouldn’t continue to face the collateral consequences](http://www.dailycal.org/2018/08/26/california-bill-provides-process-erase-reduce-sentences-marijuana-possession/), like being denied a job or housing, because they have an outdated [marijuana] conviction on their record,” Bonta said in a press release.\n\n### San Francisco Starts Its Cannabis Pardons Early\n\nSan Francisco wasn’t content to wait for the passage of Bill 1793. Last winter, District Attorney George Gascon announced that the city would immediately dismiss all cannabis misdemeanor convictions dating back to 1975.\n\nThe city also said it would review marijuana felony convictions for the period, and in appropriate cases resentence them to misdemeanor offenses.\n\n“We want to address the wrongs that were caused by the failures of the war on drugs for many years in this country and [begin to fix some of the harm that was done not only to the entire nation but specifically to communities of color](https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/marijuana-san-francisco-cannabis-convictions-wiped-1975-california-drugs-recreational-weed-prejudice-a8188676.html),” said Gascon at a news conference.\n\nHe estimated that more than 3,000 misdemeanors will automatically be dismissed, and almost 5,000 felonies will be reviewed.\n\n### Delaware Decriminalized Marijuana Possession, But There’s no Cannabis Crimes Amnesty\n\nIn Delaware, wider amnesty didn’t pass in the state’s general assembly earlier this year. However, in July, the state—which decriminalized possession of less than an ounce of marijuana three years ago—passed a bill that will [automatically expunge the records of nearly 1,300 people with a single conviction of marijuana possession or use](https://whyy.org/articles/new-delaware-law-guarantees-expungement-for-one-pot-conviction/).\n\n“As a supporter of criminal justice reform, this is [common sense legislation to provide equity for those previously convicted of offenses that are no longer illegal](https://delawarestatenews.net/government/carney-signs-bill-expunging-some-pot-convictions/),” says Delaware Senate Minority Whip Greg Lavelle, the bill’s main sponsor. “The narrow scope of this legislation provides relief specifically to those with no other criminal convictions. This will expedite these expungements without overburdening the system,” he continued.\n\nWith the cloud of past marijuana convictions removed, more people will be able to enjoy lives free of black marks and unfair restraints.\n\nPhoto credit: [Sebastian Pichler](https://unsplash.com/@pichler_sebastian)\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://hellomd.com/articles/cannabis-101-what-you-need-to-know-about-marijuana) index of articles. [HelloMD](https://hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3888888888888888,"src":"/static/e80e522495e8694321990aaaf036e638/14b42/ea98eeeba1e165fdc3d624cf1c6caf6f.jpg","srcSet":"/static/e80e522495e8694321990aaaf036e638/f836f/ea98eeeba1e165fdc3d624cf1c6caf6f.jpg 200w,\n/static/e80e522495e8694321990aaaf036e638/2244e/ea98eeeba1e165fdc3d624cf1c6caf6f.jpg 400w,\n/static/e80e522495e8694321990aaaf036e638/14b42/ea98eeeba1e165fdc3d624cf1c6caf6f.jpg 800w,\n/static/e80e522495e8694321990aaaf036e638/47498/ea98eeeba1e165fdc3d624cf1c6caf6f.jpg 1200w,\n/static/e80e522495e8694321990aaaf036e638/0e329/ea98eeeba1e165fdc3d624cf1c6caf6f.jpg 1600w,\n/static/e80e522495e8694321990aaaf036e638/cc054/ea98eeeba1e165fdc3d624cf1c6caf6f.jpg 3679w","srcWebp":"/static/e80e522495e8694321990aaaf036e638/58556/ea98eeeba1e165fdc3d624cf1c6caf6f.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/e80e522495e8694321990aaaf036e638/61e93/ea98eeeba1e165fdc3d624cf1c6caf6f.webp 200w,\n/static/e80e522495e8694321990aaaf036e638/1f5c5/ea98eeeba1e165fdc3d624cf1c6caf6f.webp 400w,\n/static/e80e522495e8694321990aaaf036e638/58556/ea98eeeba1e165fdc3d624cf1c6caf6f.webp 800w,\n/static/e80e522495e8694321990aaaf036e638/99238/ea98eeeba1e165fdc3d624cf1c6caf6f.webp 1200w,\n/static/e80e522495e8694321990aaaf036e638/7c22d/ea98eeeba1e165fdc3d624cf1c6caf6f.webp 1600w,\n/static/e80e522495e8694321990aaaf036e638/7c017/ea98eeeba1e165fdc3d624cf1c6caf6f.webp 3679w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2517-markdown","title":"Sessions Opens the Door to Federal Prosecution of Legalized Marijuana","slug":"sessions-opens-the-door-to-federal-prosecution-of-legalized-marijuana","content":"The struggle between state and federal marijuana laws doesn’t seem like it will be resolved any time soon. On Thursday, [Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced he would reverse the DOJ’s hands-off approach towards states with legal cannabis laws](http://www.cnn.com/2018/01/04/politics/jeff-sessions-cole-memo/index.html). \r\n\r\nSessions said he’s rescinding the Cole Memo, a directive from the President Obama era, which stated that as long as states that legalized marijuana weren’t, for example, selling cannabis to children, the federal government would take a lenient view to enforcing federal marijuana laws. \r\n\r\nThis policy reversal could lead the way for arrests and prosecution of individuals as well as raids on and possibly the elimination of businesses operating in the legalized recreational cannabis industry.\r\n\r\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\r\n\r\n### Sessions Reverses Course From Previous Assurances on Marijuana\r\n\r\nSessions has been a vocal opponent of marijuana and its legalization for his entire political career. Since his swearing in as attorney general, folks have been waiting to see how his anti-cannabis stance would play out. \r\n\r\nBut marijuana proponents were pleasantly surprised by his testimony to the Senate Judiciary Committee last year when he said that he saw value in expanding the number of suppliers for marijuana in medical studies. Before he became attorney general, he also reportedly assured lawmakers in states where cannabis is legal that he wouldn’t interfere in their marijuana industry. \r\n\r\n### How Will This Affect the Cannabis Industry?\r\n\r\nOne thing that has people in the industry worried is how vague the announcement was—will Sessions replace the Cole Memo with something else? How much power will state prosecutors have to uphold federal marijuana laws? \r\n\r\nIndustry lawyers, like Laura Bianchi at the Rose Law Group in Arizona [told _Marijuana Business Daily_ that she thinks this was simply an attempt to generate headlines](https://mjbizdaily.com/marijuana-businesses-rush-decipher-sessions-decision-legal-experts-advise-caution/) and has advised her clients to proceed with business as usual. \r\n\r\nIn the same interview, other cannabis lawyers, such as Adam Fine at the firm Vicente Sederberg, concede that things like cease and desist letters could cause headaches for individual companies. But he’s confident that there aren’t enough law enforcement resources to completely shut down the industry.\r\n\r\nWhat everyone seems to agree with, though, is that compliance with local laws is the best way for cannabis businesses to keep themselves out of the federal government’s sights. \r\n\r\n### What Do the American Public & Other Lawmakers Think?\r\n\r\nPeople are also concerned about how this goes against the will of the American public. A Gallup Poll conducted just this past October showed that [64% of Americans think marijuana should be legal](http://news.gallup.com/poll/221018/record-high-support-legalizing-marijuana.aspx?utm_source=twitterbutton&utm_medium=twitter&utm_campaign=sharing)—the highest percentage of people in favor of legalization in 50 years. \r\n\r\nThat 64% includes plenty of people in red states, too. Even a few [Republican politicians took Sessions to task after his announcement](https://www.rollingstone.com/politics/news/jeff-sessions-marijuana-reversal-brings-swift-bipartisan-condemnation-w514983). Senator Lisa Murkowski of Alaska, Senator Cory Gardner of Colorado and even Kentucky Senator Rand Paul admonished Sessions for ignoring states’ rights on the issue.\r\n\r\nRELATED: [MARIJUANA LAWS IN YOUR AREA](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/59b9b2fdc0563f003c24f6dc/understanding-marijuana-laws-in-your-area)\r\n\r\nEveryone will have to wait and see how this latest development affects states like Colorado and Nevada, that already have an established recreational cannabis industry; California where recreational marijuana was only legalized four days ago; and states like Ohio and Pennsylvania that are just beginning their medical marijuana programs. \r\n\r\nFor now, the best thing individuals and companies alike can do is just ensure they’re following the current local marijuana laws where they live. \r\n\r\nPhoto credit: [Office of Public Affairs U.S. Marshals Service](https://www.flickr.com/photos/usmarshals/)\r\n\r\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.  ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.36986301369863,"src":"/static/17c7dd3fd4a7ef5da6f84b71da4987ce/14b42/d10ca26632d92fe9faa11adf4c450d4e.jpg","srcSet":"/static/17c7dd3fd4a7ef5da6f84b71da4987ce/f836f/d10ca26632d92fe9faa11adf4c450d4e.jpg 200w,\n/static/17c7dd3fd4a7ef5da6f84b71da4987ce/2244e/d10ca26632d92fe9faa11adf4c450d4e.jpg 400w,\n/static/17c7dd3fd4a7ef5da6f84b71da4987ce/14b42/d10ca26632d92fe9faa11adf4c450d4e.jpg 800w,\n/static/17c7dd3fd4a7ef5da6f84b71da4987ce/47498/d10ca26632d92fe9faa11adf4c450d4e.jpg 1200w,\n/static/17c7dd3fd4a7ef5da6f84b71da4987ce/0e329/d10ca26632d92fe9faa11adf4c450d4e.jpg 1600w,\n/static/17c7dd3fd4a7ef5da6f84b71da4987ce/79565/d10ca26632d92fe9faa11adf4c450d4e.jpg 3570w","srcWebp":"/static/17c7dd3fd4a7ef5da6f84b71da4987ce/58556/d10ca26632d92fe9faa11adf4c450d4e.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/17c7dd3fd4a7ef5da6f84b71da4987ce/61e93/d10ca26632d92fe9faa11adf4c450d4e.webp 200w,\n/static/17c7dd3fd4a7ef5da6f84b71da4987ce/1f5c5/d10ca26632d92fe9faa11adf4c450d4e.webp 400w,\n/static/17c7dd3fd4a7ef5da6f84b71da4987ce/58556/d10ca26632d92fe9faa11adf4c450d4e.webp 800w,\n/static/17c7dd3fd4a7ef5da6f84b71da4987ce/99238/d10ca26632d92fe9faa11adf4c450d4e.webp 1200w,\n/static/17c7dd3fd4a7ef5da6f84b71da4987ce/7c22d/d10ca26632d92fe9faa11adf4c450d4e.webp 1600w,\n/static/17c7dd3fd4a7ef5da6f84b71da4987ce/2da49/d10ca26632d92fe9faa11adf4c450d4e.webp 3570w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2280-markdown","title":"Understanding Marijuana Laws in Your Area","slug":"understanding-marijuana-laws-in-your-area","content":"If you think [cannabis might be a good option for you](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/59b1f46a1a5caf4406dd750f/is-marijuana-right-for-you), one of the first steps you should take is to find out about the cannabis laws in your area. Despite its clear medical benefits and increasing support in the United States, cannabis remains a federally illegal substance. And yet, more than half of U.S. states have laws that protect medical patients from prosecution if they have a doctor’s recommendation to use medical marijuana. A few states also have recreational cannabis laws allowing any adult to obtain small amounts of marijuana without risking legal repercussions.\n\nIn this article, the second of a multi-part series geared for folks who are new to cannabis, we’ll provide helpful tips and resources on figuring out how to best navigate the marijuana laws that apply to you based on where you live. \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### Finding Medical Marijuana Laws by State\n\nThe laws around marijuana possession and use vary drastically from state to state and can even vary by county or town. Anyone thinking about trying cannabis to improve their health and wellness should start their journey by understanding exactly what types of cannabis activity are allowed and protected in their area—or any place they might be traveling to. \n\nLuckily, a handful of websites do a good job of compiling cannabis laws state by state. Cannabis users can explore maps to learn about the various laws related to cannabis use in a specific area on the:\n\n>* [National Cannabis Industry Association’s Marijuana Policies Map](https://thecannabisindustry.org/state-marijuana-policies-map/)\n>* [Norml’s State Laws Section](http://norml.org/laws)\n>* [ProCon.org Medical Marijuana Section](https://medicalmarijuana.procon.org/view.resource.php?resourceID=000881)\n\nWe recommend checking out the information on all three sites as the focus and level of detail differ a bit across each of them; this will help give you the most nuanced picture of the legal situation in your area.  \n\nRELATED: [Marijuana Is Legal in California: What Happens Next?](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/582333f4c4aba70008d562d0/marijuana-is-legal-in-california-what-happens-next)\n\n### What if Cannabis Is Illegal in My State? \n\nUnfortunately, certain states still haven’t legalized cannabis to the extent that places like Colorado, California and New York have. For those living in states where carrying and using cannabis is a misdemeanor or worse, patients are faced with tough choices: \n\n>* Some decide to opt out of using cannabis for the time being, but get involved in pushing for pro-cannabis policies in their state.\n>* Others stay where they are and use their medicine illegally, risking prosecution and imprisonment.\n>* Meanwhile, some folks become “medical refugees,” moving to another state where they can legally use their medicine.\n\nI’m one of those medical refugees, having moved from New Jersey, where I grew up, to California, where the laws around medical marijuana allow for its use—in many different forms—for a large variety of conditions. As someone with daily chronic pain, my quality of life and ability to function have improved drastically since I began using medical cannabis. While its use is now allowed in New Jersey, the laws don’t apply to the conditions I treat with cannabis, so returning would mean giving up my much-needed medicine.\n\nWhile it may seem extreme to move, depending on the severity of the condition and the benefit cannabis brings to the individual patient, relocating can be very much worth your trouble. For example, if you or your loved one suffers from life-threatening seizures that only seem to be reduced by using CBD from cannabis, you might find uprooting your life a way better prospect than living with pain or potentially losing it.\n\nRELATED: [New Study Proves Efficacy of CBD for Children’s Epilepsy](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/594a9ddf3a69ee00319c5136/new-study-proves-efficacy-of-cbd-for-childrens-epilepsy)\n\n### Trying Marijuana Legally\n\nIf you don’t have access to cannabis where you are and aren’t yet sure whether it will help you with your condition, you might consider traveling to a state where it’s legal for doctors to recommend cannabis for out-of-state patients. California, for example, allows doctors to recommend cannabis to anyone who qualifies, regardless of where they live. Patients can get a California recommendation and access cannabis in California, even if their home state has rules against cannabis use.\n\nThat said, traveling across state lines with cannabis is a federal crime, so it’s not advised to head back to your state with cannabis obtained in other states. Still, taking a trip out of state to try out cannabis legally can give you more information about whether cannabis is right for you. Armed with this information, you can make a thoughtful decision about whether to stay where you are or make the move to another state.\n\n### Getting Legal Questions Answered about Cannabis Use   \n\nCannabis law isn’t always simple, so if you find yourself feeling confused, you can and should talk to someone who can help explain the legal parameters in your area. Lawyers familiar with the legal landscape around cannabis can answer your questions and let you know how the law applies to your individual situation. You can also get in touch with cannabis activism groups in your area to connect with knowledgeable patients and industry activists willing to share their wealth of knowledge with newcomers. Organizations such as [Norml](http://norml.org/), the [Drug Policy Alliance](http://www.drugpolicy.org/), [Students for Sensible Drug Policy](https://ssdp.org/) and [Americans for Safe Access](http://www.safeaccessnow.org/) often have local chapters where you can find allies and support on your cannabis journey.\n\nWhile the task may seem intimidating at first blush, it’s incredibly empowering to learn your rights along with the restrictions around cannabis that apply to you. Once you get a good handle on these laws—and make sure you’re complying with them—you can start using your medicine with confidence and ease. \n\nStay tuned for the next installment of our Cannabis for Newbies guide on navigating the approval process for using cannabis legally. Need a medical marijuana recommendation? [Consult with one of HelloMD’s knowledgeable doctors](https://www.hellomd.com/); it's easy, private and 100% online.\n\n[Photo credit](https://www.flickr.com/photos/100651935@N07/9587695161/in/photolist-fBerJZ-oxb3RP-fBtKJm-4AF96c-dxsNDZ-4F2aEs-6v1dXc-YE4Wb-jUQMx-nGKk8x-qoonV-4QBVRZ-cj3Mj-5fQ25S-5srY2c-dt7DfE-gYgsP9-4tqBzS-gYgnQ1-5U3wh2-f4B4E-mKTLp-4NsNAL-5KRtkR-f3biiv-8JgQ1m-8iHdJ-VJw8jy-4jHzDi-76ivwS-c9tVg1-bB9N7R-5C3Xgg-q5mv7x-gYgpSi-fKD2D8-5DNAX2-pN8JQy-djzLyZ-6qksrn-qaC7ws-nTQWp9-bRHoFz-B5Q1uj-7g7EB6-Sna77F-iyJK7n-9qZQnc-gYgvWd-8hora2): Dan Goofy\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/873642f01d1fc90c91cb62e9fca31afa/14b42/1ff0e1e2b5482be42bbd7ae29c300979.jpg","srcSet":"/static/873642f01d1fc90c91cb62e9fca31afa/f836f/1ff0e1e2b5482be42bbd7ae29c300979.jpg 200w,\n/static/873642f01d1fc90c91cb62e9fca31afa/2244e/1ff0e1e2b5482be42bbd7ae29c300979.jpg 400w,\n/static/873642f01d1fc90c91cb62e9fca31afa/14b42/1ff0e1e2b5482be42bbd7ae29c300979.jpg 800w,\n/static/873642f01d1fc90c91cb62e9fca31afa/47498/1ff0e1e2b5482be42bbd7ae29c300979.jpg 1200w,\n/static/873642f01d1fc90c91cb62e9fca31afa/54ac5/1ff0e1e2b5482be42bbd7ae29c300979.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/873642f01d1fc90c91cb62e9fca31afa/58556/1ff0e1e2b5482be42bbd7ae29c300979.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/873642f01d1fc90c91cb62e9fca31afa/61e93/1ff0e1e2b5482be42bbd7ae29c300979.webp 200w,\n/static/873642f01d1fc90c91cb62e9fca31afa/1f5c5/1ff0e1e2b5482be42bbd7ae29c300979.webp 400w,\n/static/873642f01d1fc90c91cb62e9fca31afa/58556/1ff0e1e2b5482be42bbd7ae29c300979.webp 800w,\n/static/873642f01d1fc90c91cb62e9fca31afa/99238/1ff0e1e2b5482be42bbd7ae29c300979.webp 1200w,\n/static/873642f01d1fc90c91cb62e9fca31afa/5e0b8/1ff0e1e2b5482be42bbd7ae29c300979.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2318-markdown","title":"How the RICO Laws Might Impact the Cannabis Industry","slug":"how-the-rico-laws-might-impact-the-cannabis-industry","content":"\nIn 1970, Congress passed a piece of legislation called the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act. At the time, it was a considered a groundbreaking regulation intended to help the government’s efforts to heavily reduce organized crime. Though the original purpose was to give the federal organizations the power to go after high-profile mafia bosses, the act has since widened its net of influence to affect a variety of organizations or enterprises (corporation, partnership or business) that may be involved in racketeering. Anyone who acquires, establishes, operates or maintains any interest in an enterprise that illegally derives its income or commits illegal acts can be subject to prosecution.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\nWhy this could be cause for concern for the cannabis industry is that now private citizens are using these federal racketeering laws to bypass state law to take marijuana grows and dispensaries to court. In early June, the 10th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Colorado decided that the distinctive smell from a nearby cannabis cultivation site might be lowering property values and that the site’s neighbors could legally sue them in a district court under the RICO Act. The case has the potential to create a damaging precedent that could have far-reaching consequences where individuals will look for ways to attack and delegitimize the cannabis industry through civil cases that lean on federal law.\n\n### Why RICO Could Be a Problem for the Cannabis Industry\n\nThe RICO Act lists 35 crimes that can be considered racketeering including robbery, gambling, bribery, arson, extortion, kidnapping and the manufacture or distribution of a controlled substance or prohibited chemical. If an individual or organization commits two or more of the 35 crimes under RICO in a 10-year period, it’s considered racketeering. Individuals and organizations can be charged with racketeering by the Department of Justice, prosecutors on behalf of the government and private citizens, but the difference between the type of charges can have a significant impact on the procedural process as well as the outcome.\n\nIn criminal cases, the accused defendant must be found guilty by a jury. There cannot be any reasonable doubt of the crime of the individual’s affiliation with the organization or enterprise. However, in civil cases brought up by private citizens, the burden of proof is much lower. All the plaintiff has to do to prove—and most likely win—their case is to submit a preponderance of evidence that shows the defendant’s illegal actions caused them losses of any sort. When that happens, plaintiffs can be awarded up to three times the amount of money they claimed to have lost due to the actions of the defendant. \n\nAt the time an individual or enterprise is accused of committing a crime, the government can immediately seize or freeze any property, belongings or assets that are suspected to be related to racketeering through a process called forfeiture. If a RICO charge is proven, defendants can be sentenced to up to 20 years in prison and face fines up to double the amount of money they received from their illegal activities. \n\nRELATED: [Legalized Civil Forfeiture Is Un-American](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/59a5c2717aedf1361c9a4d39/legalized-civil-forfeiture-is-un-american)\n\n### Will the Cannabis Industry Be Protected from the RICO Act?\n\nBecause cannabis is still illegal at the federal level and considered a Schedule I substance under the Controlled Substances Act, individuals and enterprises operating in state-legalized cannabis markets can potentially become embroiled in legal battles under RICO’s broad laws. In addition to cultivators and manufacturers, this means employees of dispensaries, brands providing marijuana products, shareholders and even a company that legally rents property to a cannabis collective could be charged with racketeering.\n\nWhile cannabis’s legal status in states such as Colorado and California remains protected, its vulnerability to civil RICO charges can make entering and operating in the already-risky industry even more precarious.\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's 100% online, private and efficient.  ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/fbaef4f3994f22dfe2c3224e311663dc/14b42/4362416b33a1c5dd2471980c6994e926.jpg","srcSet":"/static/fbaef4f3994f22dfe2c3224e311663dc/f836f/4362416b33a1c5dd2471980c6994e926.jpg 200w,\n/static/fbaef4f3994f22dfe2c3224e311663dc/2244e/4362416b33a1c5dd2471980c6994e926.jpg 400w,\n/static/fbaef4f3994f22dfe2c3224e311663dc/14b42/4362416b33a1c5dd2471980c6994e926.jpg 800w,\n/static/fbaef4f3994f22dfe2c3224e311663dc/47498/4362416b33a1c5dd2471980c6994e926.jpg 1200w,\n/static/fbaef4f3994f22dfe2c3224e311663dc/54ac5/4362416b33a1c5dd2471980c6994e926.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/fbaef4f3994f22dfe2c3224e311663dc/58556/4362416b33a1c5dd2471980c6994e926.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/fbaef4f3994f22dfe2c3224e311663dc/61e93/4362416b33a1c5dd2471980c6994e926.webp 200w,\n/static/fbaef4f3994f22dfe2c3224e311663dc/1f5c5/4362416b33a1c5dd2471980c6994e926.webp 400w,\n/static/fbaef4f3994f22dfe2c3224e311663dc/58556/4362416b33a1c5dd2471980c6994e926.webp 800w,\n/static/fbaef4f3994f22dfe2c3224e311663dc/99238/4362416b33a1c5dd2471980c6994e926.webp 1200w,\n/static/fbaef4f3994f22dfe2c3224e311663dc/5e0b8/4362416b33a1c5dd2471980c6994e926.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2359-markdown","title":"Florida Tries to Block Access to Medical Marijuana","slug":"florida-tries-to-block-access-to-medical-marijuana","content":"### Florida: What’s Happened to Date\n\nIn November, 71% of Florida residents voted in favor of a constitutional amendment that approved the use of medical marijuana. Though the state had previously approved a medical marijuana law, state legislators have attempted to greatly limit who can access cannabis and what products may be produced in the state. \n\nUnder the previous medical marijuana law, seven companies held a monopoly for growing and marijuana production within the state, which led to extremely high prices. The amendment itself has limited instructions on how the  medical marijuana system should be implemented, so it required the state legislature to draft bills in order to outline the regulations that would apply to cannabis in the state. Six bills have been currently put forth in the legislature that range from strict to relaxed regulation. \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### Unnecessary Hurdles for Patients\n\nMany people are concerned, however, about high prices, unnecessary hurdles for patients to access medication, and fewer options in choices of medical cannabis products. The new medical industry, which is suppose to be up and running by September, was originally implemented in January. The amendment allowed for nine months for the rules to be decided on and established and to register new growers and patients before formally beginning. \n\nRELATED: [CANADIAN GOVERNMENT TO LEGALIZE MARIJUANA](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/58fe831e690a060c79371af4/canada-to-legalize-recreational-cannabis)\n\nThe Florida legislature conducted a large amount of debates and bill revisions to reflect what they believe should be apart of the new medical infrastructure. Though many people in the legislature argue that they are limiting access to medical marijuana in an attempt to prevent issues similar to the opioid epidemic, they are actually making the situation potentially worse by limiting access to a medication that could reduce the amount of necessary opioids for people in the state. \n\n### Government Creating Roadblocks\n\nLawmakers are also worried about the wrong people getting their hands on cannabis and have proposed a long list of roadblocks that could get in peoples way of accessing a viable medication. The possible restrictions include requiring a 90-day relationship with a doctor before they could recommend cannabis and not allowing administration methods like vaporizing and edibles. \n\nDifferent proposals also run the gambit on the amount of growers and distributers who could be issued licenses, ranging from twelve, which would only be five more than the current number allowed, to twenty. Even if the highest proposed number was approved, there are still concerns about monopolies in such a large state with a potentially very large market. \n\n### Lobbyists: A Big Problem\n\nMuch of the proposed legislation that puts very strict restrictions on medical marijuana availability comes from the lobbying arm of Drug Free America. Drug Free America, which is based in St. Petersburg, spent $1 million in the attempt to trounce the proposed amendment and, after their own defeat, they have now turned their efforts to restricting what is allowed under the amendment. Many of the strict proposals also come from problems with misinformation about cannabis and what it can do to help many people. Cannabis has an incredible ability to help people with a variety of medical conditions and greatly improve their quality of life. \n\nAfter a tumultuous period of debate, however, there may be hope for patients in Florida desiring to access medical marijuana. The legislative session for Florida ends on this coming Friday and last Friday House Bill 1397, which is about regulating the cannabis industry, was modified to be less strict. On the current bill there will be no 90-day doctor requirement or a ban of vaporizers and edibles. \n\n### Patient Testimony Matters\n\nThe changes to the bill, which also eased requirements on recertification from every three months to once a year, were made after the legislature heard patient testimony. Though there is still a continued division on how medical marijuana producers are to become certified dispensing organizations, the changes that have been made to the bill show great promise and finally, a response based on the needs of patients. The legislature could vote on the bill as early as Tuesday and, if passed, the bill could greatly improve the quality of life of many people. \n\nIf you are new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's 100% online, private and efficient.  ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/1bf35635bb63b45abe1162c99c78312e/14b42/f448bcd2320d155fa3eca7c8bebf6419.jpg","srcSet":"/static/1bf35635bb63b45abe1162c99c78312e/f836f/f448bcd2320d155fa3eca7c8bebf6419.jpg 200w,\n/static/1bf35635bb63b45abe1162c99c78312e/2244e/f448bcd2320d155fa3eca7c8bebf6419.jpg 400w,\n/static/1bf35635bb63b45abe1162c99c78312e/14b42/f448bcd2320d155fa3eca7c8bebf6419.jpg 800w,\n/static/1bf35635bb63b45abe1162c99c78312e/47498/f448bcd2320d155fa3eca7c8bebf6419.jpg 1200w,\n/static/1bf35635bb63b45abe1162c99c78312e/54ac5/f448bcd2320d155fa3eca7c8bebf6419.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/1bf35635bb63b45abe1162c99c78312e/58556/f448bcd2320d155fa3eca7c8bebf6419.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/1bf35635bb63b45abe1162c99c78312e/61e93/f448bcd2320d155fa3eca7c8bebf6419.webp 200w,\n/static/1bf35635bb63b45abe1162c99c78312e/1f5c5/f448bcd2320d155fa3eca7c8bebf6419.webp 400w,\n/static/1bf35635bb63b45abe1162c99c78312e/58556/f448bcd2320d155fa3eca7c8bebf6419.webp 800w,\n/static/1bf35635bb63b45abe1162c99c78312e/99238/f448bcd2320d155fa3eca7c8bebf6419.webp 1200w,\n/static/1bf35635bb63b45abe1162c99c78312e/5e0b8/f448bcd2320d155fa3eca7c8bebf6419.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2184-markdown","title":"Four Governors Stand Up For the Future of Cannabis","slug":"four-governors-stand-up-for-the-future-of-cannabis","content":"### The Governor's Letter\r\n \r\nThe Governors from Alaska, Colorado, Washington, and Oregon have sent a letter to Attorney General Jeff Sessions and Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin asking for the federal government to allow for the continuation of recreational cannabis industries in their respective states. The letter stated, “As Governors, we have committed to implementing the will of our citizens and have worked cooperatively with our legislatures to establish robust regulatory structures that prioritize public health and public safety, reduce inequitable incarceration and expand our economies.” The Governors’ letter reaffirms their strong stance the importance of the marijuana industries in their state, both as an act of upholding the will of their citizens, as well as providing their states with economic opportunity through additional tax revenue and job creation. \r\n\r\nThough the Trump Administration has not made any concrete moves against the cannabis industry, there is a constant air of unease by people in the industry who worry about the administration’s feelings towards cannabis. Trump himself has made it clear he sees the importance of medical marijuana, but has not looked too kindly upon recreational markets. Sessions, on the other hand, is a staunch anti-marijuana advocate, and his position as Attorney General has made many worry that he may attempt to revoke the Cole memos, which allow cannabis industries to continue unimpeded by the DEA in states where they have been legalized. \r\n\r\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\r\n\r\n### Possible Cannabis Crackdown\r\n\r\nSean Spicer, however, did hint to a possible crack down on legal recreational marijuana industries, which caused rising concern about the future of the industry. One of the few components that is believed to be protecting the cannabis industry is the Trump Administration’s strong commitment to the importance of states rights, which has shielded the industry from any federal action, in either direction, thus far. The Governors from Alaska, Colorado, Washington, and Oregon, however, want to get ahead of any possible national legislation.  \r\n\r\nIn the letter, the Governors highlighted the importance of the Cole Memos for allowing legal marijuana systems to be set up in states with a strong focus on public health and safety. They also warned of a possible increase in crime if the legal industries are disbanded and replaced by illegal vendors in the black market. The Governors included Treasury Secretary Mnuchin in the letter with the hope of providing cannabis companies access to the banking system. The Governors called for the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network, which provides guidance to banks on such issues, to request that banks and investors provide services to companies in the marijuana industry in order to further grow the success of the flourishing industry. \r\n\r\nRELATED: [WILL CALFORNIA REGULATIONS BE READY FOR 2018?](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/will-california-cannabis-regulations-be-ready-for-2018)\r\n\r\n### The Will of the People\r\n\r\nThe Governors even opened up about their understanding of the trepidation the administration may have in implementing new changes in regards to cannabis. All of the Governors admitted to being skeptical about marijuana legalization when it first occurred in their own states, but as Governors it is their duty to implement the will of their citizens. This echoes the words of Washington state Attorney General Bob Ferguson, who said he was willing to go head to head with the Trump Administration on the issue of cannabis, much like he did with the recent immigration order. Ferguson said that states were the labs of democracy and this now successful multi-state experiment should be embraced by the national government. He also made it clear that it would be very troubling if legal Washington grow operations were raided by the DEA. \r\n\r\nThe tone of the Governors’ letter was very non-confrontational and focused on creating a relationship with the Trump Administration regarding the issue of cannabis. The goal of the Governors was to engage in a conversation with the government and to open up a platform for future discussion. The Governors wrote, \"We look forward to working with you and your administration. We stand ready to have further discussion on how these important federal policies work in our states.” The letter has been widely praised by marijuana advocates for its straightforward but non-aggressive tone, which will hopefully serve to open up a dialogue about cannabis that will allow for input from the Governors in the future. \r\n\r\nIf you are new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's 100% online, private and efficient. \r\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/0bbcf47435b84a28e5fc94f80fced1a5/14b42/ad8122a6a1eefb22e4870d7353e63b37.jpg","srcSet":"/static/0bbcf47435b84a28e5fc94f80fced1a5/f836f/ad8122a6a1eefb22e4870d7353e63b37.jpg 200w,\n/static/0bbcf47435b84a28e5fc94f80fced1a5/2244e/ad8122a6a1eefb22e4870d7353e63b37.jpg 400w,\n/static/0bbcf47435b84a28e5fc94f80fced1a5/14b42/ad8122a6a1eefb22e4870d7353e63b37.jpg 800w,\n/static/0bbcf47435b84a28e5fc94f80fced1a5/47498/ad8122a6a1eefb22e4870d7353e63b37.jpg 1200w,\n/static/0bbcf47435b84a28e5fc94f80fced1a5/54ac5/ad8122a6a1eefb22e4870d7353e63b37.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/0bbcf47435b84a28e5fc94f80fced1a5/58556/ad8122a6a1eefb22e4870d7353e63b37.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/0bbcf47435b84a28e5fc94f80fced1a5/61e93/ad8122a6a1eefb22e4870d7353e63b37.webp 200w,\n/static/0bbcf47435b84a28e5fc94f80fced1a5/1f5c5/ad8122a6a1eefb22e4870d7353e63b37.webp 400w,\n/static/0bbcf47435b84a28e5fc94f80fced1a5/58556/ad8122a6a1eefb22e4870d7353e63b37.webp 800w,\n/static/0bbcf47435b84a28e5fc94f80fced1a5/99238/ad8122a6a1eefb22e4870d7353e63b37.webp 1200w,\n/static/0bbcf47435b84a28e5fc94f80fced1a5/5e0b8/ad8122a6a1eefb22e4870d7353e63b37.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2300-markdown","title":"Will California Cannabis Regulations Be Ready for 2018?","slug":"will-california-cannabis-regulations-be-ready-for-2018","content":"### Lori Ajax Leads the Charge\n\nThe long process of crafting new cannabis regulations is already underway and moving forward quickly in California, despite concerns from the public that there may be delays in the roll out of the recreational cannabis market. Lori Ajax, the chief of California’s Bureau of Medical Cannabis Regulation, who used to work in the state’s alcohol control department, is leading the charge in crafting the new regulations for the state. She recently addressed a group of San Diego industry leaders at a forum, laying out what has been done so far, and what is still to be done in the process of establishing a recreational cannabis market in the state by the beginning of 2018. \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### Regulations Create Legitimacy\n\nAjax has stated that there has been a lot of positive momentum in the crafting of regulations for the recreational cannabis industry. She is optimistic that getting the market up and running in the state can help the medical marijuana industry gain legitimacy in the eyes of federal entities, such as banks. Ajax is also not worried about the Trump Administration getting in the way of their progress. The state of California is choosing to move forward despite any chance that the Trump Administration, namely Attorney General Jeff Sessions, will try to put up future roadblocks. \n\nShe also announced that the proposed new medical marijuana regulations are expected to be released by late April, followed in the late summer or early fall by new proposed recreational cannabis regulations. These proposed regulations will then each enter 45 day comment periods in which everyone from the general public to industry leaders can offer opinions on the proposals. \n\n![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/58ebb3b08aec23400b2312db/embedded_images/58ebb3b28aec23400b2312dc/Screen_Shot_2017-04-10_at_9.24.09_AM.png)\nLori Ajax is sometimes referred to as the Marijuana Czar of California\n \n### Regulations May Be Fluid\n\nOnce these proposals become law, however, it does not mean they are completely set in stone. Ajax made it clear that when the new industry rolls out in California there are expected to be some changes as real world applications either succeed or fall short of what is necessary for proper regulation. There is expected to be a transition period where the laws can be changed and shaped based on the industry’s needs. The way that local jurisdictions decide to regulate cannabis will also greatly effect how all of these new laws are implemented and how the industry moves forward. \n\nThere are still some unknowns in the formation of the industry that are expected to continue to unfold in the coming months. One of Ajax’s biggest concerns is having enough testing labs that are specifically certified to test cannabis products in time for the roll out of the recreational industry. There is also large scale consolidation of departments that still needs to be undertaken by the California government. \n\nRELATED: [DELAYS FOR RECREATIONAL ROLLOUT IN CALIFORNIA](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/58994aef76773d0008fada24/delays-for-recreational-marijuana-rollout-in-california\n\n### Responsibilities & The Unknown\n\nBesides the Bureau of Medical Cannabis Regulation, whose job is to oversee dispensaries, labs, transporters, and distributers, there are many other departments that will be involved in the regulation of cannabis in both medical and recreational fields. The Department of Food and Agriculture, and partially the Department of Fish and Wildlife, will oversee the cultivation of cannabis and the processes at marijuana farms. The Pesticide Control Department will also be partially responsible for looking at the use of pesticides in cannabis farming. The Department of Public Health will be responsible for overseeing the manufacturing of edibles. \n\nOne of the biggest unknowns going forward in the future of California’s cannabis industry is how it will be able to counter the illegal black market industry. Ajax has said that the state hopes to eliminate the illegal industry with the creation of the recreational cannabis industry. State law enforcement agencies are planning to conduct a large scale crack down on the illegal marijuana industry after the recreational industry is up and running. \n\nAjax believes the grassroots support of recreational and medical marijuana industries are crucial to ending illegal markets in the state, which could mean working with county and city jurisdictions to reduce the levying of additional large taxes on cannabis products. \n\nIf you are new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's 100% online, private and efficient. 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