Many people have decided to turn to medical marijuana instead of, or in addition to, using pharmaceutical drugs. The tricky part is locating the right dispensary.

This article will help point out what is important when looking for a medical marijuana dispensary.

Always keep in the minds the basics; most importantly the health and safety aspects when looking for a medical marijuana dispensary perfect for your needs.

The dispensary needs to abide by specific health and safety regulations. The dispensary also needs to make certain that their marijuana and cannabis produce are sold and dispensed in a hygienic setting. The cannabis being sold also needs to be grown and cultivated under specific regulations. This includes how the cannabis is handled, cultivated and also stored.

The dispensary is also required to keep records of transactions taking place in the Point of Sale system. Names and personal details do not have to be recorded.

The majority of medical marijuana dispensaries have to have records of the exact type of cannabis product that is being sold, the quantity of cannabis being sold, the buyer’s date of birth, the price the buyers purchased it for, and the date that the product was sold.

In addition, they must also have a written policy that states how the dispensary will guarantee that the limit of retail cannabis sold to any one individual in one day is enforced.

The next thing to bear in mind when finding your perfect medical marijuana dispensary is to look out for the dispensaries with the best quality product.

Marijuana is now essentially like any other product being sold in a store, each dispensary will have differing grades and strains of marijuana. Remember that when you are looking to use marijuana for its medicinal capabilities then cheaper is not always the better option. There are some strains that will cost you more than others, and while this is not a blanket idea that the cheapest strains are of the lowest quality, it can be indicative of a marijuana strain carrying less pure components of the cannabanoids that you need.

It helps if your dispensary has detailed information about the different levels of THC and CBD. Find a dispensary with employees that are passionate and very knowledgeable. These dispensaries and their employees are the ones that can help you find the right strain that you require.

You can use the services of review websites like Yelp to help you locate dispensaries in your area. There are many websites sharing information and reviews about areas and their dispensaries. It can be difficult deciding the best weed to purchase so the following are a few signs that you want to avoid that particular bag of weed:

• Seed and stems; avoid cannabis full of stems and seeds. These stems and seeds deliver a harsh punch when smoked and they do not have enough THC to produce the results you want.
• Avoid the brown cannabis. The colour of the budded flower indicates whether or not it is good marijuana. Look out for bright, vibrant coloured buds and avoid the dull, very brown buds.

One of the most important factors for finding the right medical marijuana dispensary is how close it is to you. Many dispensaries are offering delivery services as well, so if you prefer not to go out and purchase in public you can order online and have it delivered.

Variety is also important when finding the right medical marijuana dispensary. Look for a dispensary with a wide assortment and varieties of strains and products for you to choose from. With such a wide variety to choose from, you have more liberty

To find a product, whether it is creams, vapours, oils, edibles etc. in this way you will be able to find the perfect marijuana form that suits you the best. This wide selection of choice should permeate well into the strains that you can buy. You want to be able to try an indica blend for a more of a relaxed, introverted high or the sativa strain for a more energised and focused experience. Alternatively, you can find a strain that is blended by both indica and sativa.

Price is another aspect to consider when looking for a dispensary. Many different dispensaries across states will have a different price. The average price of legal medical marijuana is around $15 so make sure you find a dispensary that has its own average price around the same.  buy cannabis legally

Now, once you have found your dispensary and ready to go then make sure you have a valid state ID. This is to ensure that you are above 21 years of age. It is important to remember that a medical marijuana dispensary is not a mere pot shop; it is a federal regulated dispensary, for medical purposes. It is no longer a shop that belongs on the fringe of society but is accepted more and more now with its legalities.

 

Millions of Americans use medical marijuana. A fair percentage of these people are actively employed.Statisticshave shown that the numbers will keep increasing, simultaneously,as more states in the U.S. are advocating for the legalization of marijuana. California makes a “table-smashing” breakthrough with its new law (California Proposition 64)legalizing recreational weed, and reviewing past records of marijuana law offenders. Records show that as ofAugust 2017, medical marijuana users in California are approximately 1.53 million people.Progressive research and new knowledge about the medical benefits of marijuana are making more people opt for its use in treating various ailments. Corporate organizations are still not sure how to react to the situation.What implications does using medical marijuana in the workplace have on general ethic that guide employees? Employers and service providers are saddled with the obligation of accommodating the use of medical marijuana while ensuring a safe and secure working environment for all. Here, I will provide some best practices employers can adopt in carrying out this responsibility.

Users of medical marijuana in the workplace may increase significantly, following the new marijuana legalization act sweeping across the country. Employers and service providers are worried about it. But let us take a quick step back. Medical marijuana use is legalized in many states in America. Those who have been prescribed marijuana are protected under the Controlled Drugs and Substance Act. This exemption “prevents” employers from discriminating against workers that treat health conditions with marijuana. This also means a worker can smoke weed before getting on with his job, or during a break.So, employees will always be wary about the safety of workers using weed and work related issues such as productivity and punctuality.

Employersshould be made to understand, that smoking weed is not the only method of consumption. Marijuana comes in fresh, dried and oil-infused forms. It can be consumed in confectionery, beverage, or freshly prepared food.However, accommodating the use of medical marijuana in the workplacepresents a complex situation for employers. How then, can they engage in best practices in carrying out this obligation?

• Determine the facts

Accommodating medical marijuana use in the workplacerequires each party’s interests to be considered.The  use of blanket rules and presumptions in judging situations cannot fly. For instance, the treatment (in this case the medicine being marijuana) of an ailment cannot be isolated from the ailment. On the one hand, this means that employers and service providers don’t have the legal rights to prohibit medical users of weed from bringing their prescriptions to work.On the other hand, workers who seek accommodation should be able to prove that they have a disability that requires he or she to be obliged. If the employer believes that a worker is not eligible for weed use accommodation, they will need to provide solid facts to why the worker’s request is rejected.

• Provide rules according to situations

Cases of a worker asserting that he or she has a right to smoke in enclosed spaces (e.g. offices) may possible arise. Rejection of this kind of application may see the situation finding its way to the Human Rights Tribunal.The court may reject that application and advise instead, for the worker to take breaks from work when they need to smoke medical weed.Similarly, in an office setting, a medical weed smoker can be asked nicely, to take a few steps away from the rest of the gathering when smoking medical weed. Rules should be provided according to the context, facts, and evidence. Considerations for specific regulations and safety situationsshould also be in line with the same factors.

Apparently, employers in most states which medical weed has been legalized will still place restrictions on its use in offices and other working environments, most of their policies are likely to change in the future, with court decisions ruling in favor of medical weed users. In safety-sensitive situations,it will be reasonable for employers not to allow workers to use medical weed while working, or when they do establish solid evidence that workers are impaired. Notwithstanding, a clear policy that permits the medical use of weed at work; andwhich evaluates impairment, should be put in place, in all cases.Workers should be widely informed and sensitized about these policies for a balance of interests to be reached.

Whatever impression the media has been giving people about marijuana, new events are graduallybringing the truth to light. I love the development; I am sure a lot people out there dotoo. But what about senior citizens? Back in their day, marijuana was being portrayed as a highly toxic plant which poses a lot of health risks if used…they almost branded it evil! Unfortunately, the age group that is misinformed the most are the oldercitizens. But ironically, marijuana is useful for them, as much as it is for younger adults—in fact, they need it more. So, if you are of senior age and reading this, I advise you follow through. Let me help you unlearn a few lies you’ve been told.

I really don’t watch movies but once in a while,I tune on to health and fitness stations.So,relaxingwith my marijuana-infused green tea on a Saturday morning, I switched on my TV to watch one of those episodes.It was a man probably in his mid-sixties, and he hadParkinson’s Disease. Iwas a bit surprised to see some pre-rolled jointsitting on the table right before him… like “who the hell put that weed there?”. He got help from a younger fellow with lighting one up. In less than 3 minutes, he started controlling his muscular movements. In 5 minutes, he appeared so calm and coordinated…after a few puffs of weed,he looked so normal. It was amazing.

Ageing makesus susceptible to diseases. The rate at which leukocytes reproduce dwindles, and immunity weakens. Many elderly infirm people live on drugs they use daily.These drugs have prescriptions, not using them correctly is a fatal risk. Sicknesses like high blood pressure is like time bomb. Arthritis is like a nightmare. Cannabis is a natural treatment for ailments like these and many more which is prevalent among the older generation. And I never heard the news that a senior citizen who uses marijuana died from an overdose.

If you’restill reading this, and you are a senior citizen who’s not sure if he should order online weed, please go ahead. I will tell you the reasons why you should. Here are 10 ways seniors and elderly people will benefit from marijuana.

1. Marijuana can lessen the use of, or even replace prescription meds.

The healing properties of Marijuanaeffectively treats a wide range of diseases including headaches, chronic pain, insomnia, arthritis, high blood pleasure, digestive disorders, constipation, anorexia, nausea, and many others. It also has a property that enhances the potency of commonly prescribed drugs such as analgesics and appetite enhancers. Usually, the combination of drugs prescribed to sick seniors are not all for the disease. Some drugs are to cure the side effects caused by another drug. If you use weed frequently, you wouldn’t be needing most of those drugs anymore.

2. Marijuana has powerful antioxidant effects.

An ongoing research on marijuana discovers that “a personweighing 140 poundswill have to consume more than 4 pounds of marijuana in one sitting to reach toxic levels”.—SeniorDirectory.com. The antioxidant properties in cannabis gives relief to people suffering from liver inflammation, lupus, and other medical conditions that cause inflammatory symptoms.

3. Marijuana-infused oils cure neuropathy pain.

To be a marijuana user, you don’t necessarily need to smoke a joint. Cannabis-infused ointments and cream are locally made. They are very potent in suiting sore joints and muscles, and chronic back pain. These are common physical conditions in senior people.

4. Marijuana use increases appetite.

Marijuana serves as an appetite stimulant. Some elderly people who manage health conditions often experience appetite loss as a side effect of their medications. Frequent use of recreational marijuana does not only increase appetite, it also cures nausea.

5. It is edible, nutritious and tasty.

Like I mentioned before, you don’t need to inhale marijuana smoke or vapor to be a recreational user. When infused in edibles, marijuana provides the same health benefits. That’s good news. Senior citizens don’t have to worry about the ‘high’ part associated with smoking marijuana anymore. Cannabis is infused in honey, candies, cakes, and noodle soups. It has great taste and flavor.

6. Cannabis combats glaucoma.

A fair number of elderly people in the U.S. live with eyesight conditions like glaucoma. Progressive research on neurodegenerative diseases report links between marijuana use and improvement in the condition.

7. It helps with insomnia.

I remember my dad started having trouble finding hours of sustained sleep as he grew into his fifties. Quality sleepfor a senior citizenis very important in preventing age-related neurodegenerative conditions. Alzheimer’s disease can be treated effectively with cannabidiol (CBD). CBD minimizes lighter sleep phases and induces deep sleep phases.

If you are a senior citizen and you’re still reading this, then you’re reading right. I advise you order online marijuana when you have the need to use it. Use responsibly. It will not kill you; it will make you stronger.

Anyone with a serious medical illness is likely swallowing prescription drugs to manage their symptoms. Unfortunately, drug interactions are a notable risk with Big Pharma’s medications. To avoid complications, you need to know exactly what you are taking and be aware of potential adverse reactions associated with it, whether common or not.

This is of particular importance if your doctor prescribes opiates or narcotics for your condition. It is possible for even seemingly harmless drugs to have severe, even lethal, side effects. Fortunately, studies prove cannabis more effective, and safer, than any drugs Big Pharma has to offer. If your state has a medical marijuana program, then you likely qualify as a medical marijuana patient.

However, as with all substances, one must ask how, or even if, cannabis interacts with prescription medications. Unlike most of Big Pharma’s drugs, weed has little to no possible interacts to worry about. In fact, many patients find that adding marijuana to their existing treatment plan maximizes its effectiveness. Called the additive effect, it is clear that weed can only help your current treatment.

The Difference between Opiates and Narcotics

To know if it is safe to consume weed with either narcotics or opioids, you must understand the difference between the two. Although all opiates are narcotics, it is important to note that not all narcotics are opiates. Opiates originate from opium poppy seeds, as does codeine, morphine, and some other psychoactive drugs.

Narcotics, on the other hand, include opiates, opiate-derivatives, and synthetic drugs promising the same effects. Today, for the sake of clarity, most refer to narcotics as opioids, and some of the most commonly prescribed of them include Vicodin and Percocet. There are not many differences between opiates and narcotics, as all of them share some, if not all, of the following characteristics:

• Both narcotics and opiates treat pain and other serious health symptoms.
• Doctors do not prescribe either lightly, and both are under heavy regulation.
• Both classes of drugs can potentially cause adverse side effects, even fatalities.
• There is close monitoring of interactions with these and other drugs or substances.
• The risk of addiction is extremely high for both drug classes.
• Both opiates and narcotics are responsible for a widespread epidemic of abuse.

Is Using Cannabis with Opioids Dangerous?

As a Schedule 1 drug under the Controlled Substances Act of 1970, cannabis is a federally prohibited substance. This illegality makes research difficult for scientists to conduct, and it creates a negative stigma around a plant with miraculous healing potential. Many physicians fear prescribing opioids together with marijuana, simply because there is a notable lack of research on potential interactions.

Many are afraid that since both marijuana and opioids have sedative and psychoactive properties, it will create a dangerous combination. They also fear that combining the two will increase a patient’s risk for substance abuse.

However, as more patients use cannabis, there is growing evidence this treatment option has many positive benefits. Plus, there’s no evidence of any harmful interactions between marijuana and opioids that patients should be afraid of.

Studies have found the following in patients who use marijuana in conjunction with opioid therapy:

• No increased risk of dependency for either type of medication
• No increase in opioid blood level concentrations
• No increase in danger or potency of opioids
• A safe increase in pain management effectiveness

The Opioid Epidemic

With the abuse of prescription opioids on the rise, the medical community is searching for a safer alternative to pain management. Because patients can develop an unhealthy dependence to opioids over time, the abuse and overdose of the drugs are becoming an epidemic, according to the CDC. They’re striving to make the nation aware of startling statistics surrounding this topic:

• Over 15,000 people died of an opioid overdose in 2015
• Nearly 2 million people in the U.S. are dependent on prescription opioids
• One in four people who are prescribed opioids struggle with addiction
• About 1000 people go to the emergency room every day because they have misused opioids

With these troubling statistics on the rise, it’s no wonder why government officials and physicians are searching for a solution. Medical marijuana could be the answer.

Could Medical Marijuana Eliminate Opioid Abuse?

Not only is medical marijuana safe to use in conjunction with prescription opioids, but it may be the answer to the abuse of these narcotics, as well. If a patient is using opioids to help manage painful symptoms associated with their condition, chances are, dependence on the drugs will only grow. If they combine their opioid use with cannabis treatments, it allows them to break this cycle of dependence and potential abuse.

When a patient uses medical marijuana, doctors can prescribe lower doses of opioids. This would reduce both the risk of dependency and the severity of the side effects associated with the drugs. Ideally, patients will eventually be able to eliminate their opioid use altogether.

ince marijuana has less risk for dependency and fewer adverse side effects, it’s a much safer option for pain management than prescription narcotics. In fact, one study found the rate of opioid-related deaths was 25 percent less in states where medical marijuana is legalized.

More Information About Medical Marijuana Treatments

If you live in a state where medical marijuana has been legalized and would like to pursue this treatment course, your first step is to speak to a qualified medical professional. Doctors who are certified to prescribe cannabis are available to meet with you and answer any of your questions.

If you’d like more information on this subject, contact a physician in your state or a medical marijuana dispensary near you. These professionals will be able to answer your questions based on your unique circumstances.

 

Now that marijuana is legal in California for anyone 21-years or older, you may be wondering what the rules are about driving with it in your car. It may be legal, but you can still get into trouble with the law. Firstly, consuming pot behind the wheel is subject to the same charges as driving under the influence of alcohol, and there are some other, fortunately simple, rules for you to follow, as well:

·        Have Paperwork Ready

If police pull you over, it is vital that you have all your paperwork with you, and that they are the legitimate documents. Whether you have weed in your car with you or not, not having your paperwork ready will certainly attract trouble your way. Keep your driver’s license, current registration, and insurance information stored safely in your vehicle at all times.

·        Stash Your Stash in the Trunk

The law says that you may drive with marijuana in your car, provided nobody can see it from outside the vehicle. The safest place to stash your pot is in the trunk. In fact, this is government-recommended. You can put it in the glove box, but the trunk is still your safest bet, especially when, while scrambling for your driving records, your stash falls out for all to see.

·        Keep Weed Containers Sealed

It is illegal to drive with an open container of marijuana anywhere in your car. Close all weed jars, containers, and other products tightly, with their original lids, and do not make the mistake of leaving it open on your passenger seat. If a cop sees an open jar of weed next to you, then you will likely be facing charges of driving under the influence of marijuana, whether you were using it at the time or not.

·        Do Not Smoke While Driving

If cops catch you driving with a joint between your lips, then some jail time is almost certain. This applies to other forms of marijuana consumption, as well, such as eating and drinking it. It is illegal to consume weed while operating a vehicle, so do not do it. If you absolutely must break the law for a hit or two, then do not hotbox your car. Doing so will just attract law enforcement in droves.

·        Clean Your Car of Weed Debris

It will not help if cops find roaches, pipes, bongs, dab rigs, or other weed paraphernalia littering your car when they pull you over. Keep your vehicle clean. Just having accessories like that in your car can land you in trouble with the law, and if they are dirty and clearly recently used, you will have a hard time proving that you were not consuming at the time officers caught you. Be smarter than that.

·        Control the Smell

If you can smell weed in sealed containers, then you clearly have good stuff. However, an overwhelming smell of high-grade marijuana coming from your car will appear very suspicious indeed. In fact, it may just be the reason why cops come over to investigate you in the first place. Use body spray or cologne, if necessary, but wrapping it properly and storing it in the trunk should reduce the odor sufficiently.

·        Fix Your Car

One of the surest ways to guarantee a roadside stop is to drive a vehicle that has something obviously wrong with it. Cops will pull you over for a broken taillight, for example, and instead find your weed stash open next to you on the passenger seat. Make sure your lights work properly, as well as your turn signals. Fix license plates, broken windows, and anything that could possibly get you pulled over.

Conclusion

Although the law now allows you to have up to an ounce of weed on your person at any given time, there are still some rules to follow when driving with it in your car. The consensus is to stay as discreet as possible, as discretion will keep you on the right side of the law. However, those flaunting their stash or smoking behind the wheel may find jail and fines an almighty inconvenience.

As much as each of the US states has state laws that clearly categorize legislation by geographical area, matters can be very different on the ground. An individual living in smaller states and near state borders may have to visit a nearby state.  Maybe, you have just relocated to a new state and are subject to new laws.

The federal government has outlawed marijuana and states that have legalized it have made changes to their individual laws, so what you can do with it depends on which specific state you are in. Already, 29 states including California have legalized it, so you have to sift through several rules.

If you are a medical marijuana patient that travels from state to another, read this article to find out whether you will need another marijuana cards to get the medicine in the destination states.

Can I obtain aMedical Marijuana Card in Multiple States?

You should first decide whether you would like to get a card for each state or use your Medical Marijuana Card in different states. A good number of the weed-friendly states will accept your out-of-state medical marijuana card for buying and possessing weed for medicinal purposes.

It’s extremely difficult to legally obtain a medical marijuana card from more than one state. Once you are issued with one, you are officially on record and will not be allowed to obtain from any other state.

One of the basic requirements for obtaining a medical marijuana card is proving that you live in the state. A number of states do not recognize IDs issued by other states in their applications, and such states will require you provide a document proving your area of residence. You can’t be eligible to apply a medical card outside your state of residence. An exception is Florida that allows part-time residents with state licenses issued by other state to get a card.

It highly recommended that you get a new medical marijuana card when you travel out of your state. While you may be able to buy and use cannabis in a state that recognizes out-of-state marijuana cards, when it will expires you won’t be allowed to use and possess marijuana, so get a new one for an extended time of use. You should apply for one in time as some state program will take unusually long to apply.

Even if you cannot obtain more than one state’s cannabis card, you canuse your state’s card to buy in other states. There is a good number of weed-friendly states that allow visitors to medicate with weed during their stay.

States that Recognize Out-of-State Cards

 

Rhode Island

Allows people with out-of-state cards possess a maximum of 2.5 ounces, but they cannot buy in the state using the cards.

New Hampshire

If your card was issued under this state’s qualifying conditions, you can come with your medicine, but you can’t use your card to buy from their dispensaries. You aren’t allowed to carry more than 2 ounces at a time.

Pennsylvania

While the law is still being developed, the state’s caregivers can obtain medical weed from another state for minors aged <18, but it has to be obtained from the state of origin.

Michigan

They accept other states’ marijuana cards but have very strict regulatory legislation.

Hawaii

As from Jan. 1 2018, individuals with out-of-state marijuana cards will be allowed to buy and possess weed. But, they have possession limits.

Nevada

As long as you are over 21 years of age, you can freely buy weed, but you can still use your card to buy medicinal weed products, provided your state of origin protects patients from criminal prosecution.

Maine

You get the same favors as local patients, provided you get authorization from Maine-based doctors and have recommendation.

Arizona

You will be allowed to use and possess a maximum of 2.5 ounces of weed with your out-of-state marijuana card, but won’t be allowed to buy from their dispensaries.

States that allow recreational weed

Differences between medical and recreational cannabis use vary from state to another and normally involve a few factors. States often allow waived sales tax on stronger medicine and weed purchases. If you enter a registry, state officials will collect non-invasive data on medical weed use.

Unless you would like to get those benefits, recreational marijuana is equally beneficial as medical marijuana. But, with medical marijuana, you just buy without having to pass through a lengthy purchase process.

States that allow you buy weed without a cardare Alaska, California, Colorado, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington. Note that the basic qualifying requirements may slightly differ among these states, and so do penalties for violation of marijuana rules.

Keep in mind that weed laws change frequently, to avoid running into trouble, we recommend that you frequently check the most recent legislature. One reliable source of such information is your dispensary or licensed marijuana doctor.

Since California legalized medical marijuana two decades ago, we have seen several states follow suit, and more are in the process. Also, some of them have legalized adult marijuana. Many patients and users do not know whether their state marijuana ID cards are valid out-of-state. Luckily, a few weed-legal states do accept out-of-state doctor authorizations, and there are high expectations others will start.

If you have an out-of-state marijuana medical card, the dispensary owner has all the authority to accept or reject your request. This mostly applies to stricter states like Michigan and Rhode Island. Make prior inquiries to avoid inconveniences.

Currently, only seven states accept out-of-state authorization, namely; Arizona, Hawaii, Maine, Michigan, Nevada, New Hampshire, Pennsylvania, and Rhode Island. The rest are either in the process or prohibit.

Arizona

Arizonians can get out-of-state authorizations but out-of-state patients cannot buy from local state-licensed dispensaries. Provided your home state has registered you as a cannabis patient, you can freely walk with your weed in Arizona.

Here, patient limits are 2.5 ounces of usable weed.

Hawaii

Come Jan 1. 2018,Hawaii’s visiting medical cannabis patients will be allowed to buy and possess weed from the 8 licensed dispensaries in the state. There is plenty of information in Hawaii’s Medical Marijuana Laws.

Here possession limits are 8 ounces every 30 consecutive days or 4 ounces every 15 days.

Michigan

They allow out-of-state-licensed patients buy and possess weed but have plenty of restrictions, so flaunting your use may land you in serious trouble, as they have plenty of restrictions.

New Hampshire

They respect out-of-state medical weed recommendations. You won’t visit local dispensaries as they only allow legal possession of weed for medicinal use.

You cannot buy or possess more than 2 ounces and you to have been issued your state’s medical licensed on qualifying medical conditions similar to New Hampshire’s.

Pennsylvania

In Pennsylvania, it’s legal for a guardian or parent of a minor aged under 18 of age to obtain medical cannabis out-of-state for administration to the minor. This privilege is only for minors and the state plans to repeal it within 730 days.

The state’s Medical Cannabis Program FAQ has plenty of information on this.

Rhode Island

Here the law recognizes out-state-state medical cannabis patients and allows them possess the same amount of weed as in-patients, but doesn’t take patient registry cards from out-of-state patients.

The Island limits possession to 2.5 ounces of usable weed.

Nevada

Nevada dispensaries won’t demand your medical marijuana card, but the government will invalidate out-of-state cannabis cards by end of March 2018.Nevada may soon become a “stoners’ paradise” if plans to license bars and restaurants in a bid to increase cannabis tourism go through.

In Nevada, an adult with valid license can buy and possess 3.5 grams of cannabis concentrates and 1 ounce of cannabis, and those who need it for medicinal purposes are allowed 2.5 ounces of weed flower.

California

Many cannabis stores have been established in California since legalization of medical marijuana, but as from Jan. 1 when recreational use goes legal, the surge in demand may overwhelm. To qualify for medical use, you need a doctor’s recommendation and money. Not all doctors recommend use of marijuana so you have for the right one.

Currently, the only place where Californians can buy weed is weed dispensaries and must provide a doctor’s written recommendation. A medical marijuana ID isn’t a mandatory requirement, but you need it in case you have to interact with cops. This is about to come to an end because as from January 1,2018, any Californian over 21 will be allowed to buy without recommendations.

California is undoubtedly one of the most popular American states and has added another product to the list of its vast resources – weed. In recent years, weed was only to be used by in-state medical patients. But with passage of Proposition 64, any individual aged 21+ and with government-issued identification can buy and use as from Jan. 1.

California allows weed use for individuals aged 21+ only with state-issued identification. They may buy and possess up to 1 ounce of weed flower, and up to 5 grams of marijuana concentrate.

Other States

For more information aboutWashington, read Know The Law – I-502.

For more information about Oregon, read Oregon’s Recreational Marijuana Laws.

For more information about Massachusetts, read Massachusett’sCannabis Possession Laws.

For more information about Maine, read theMaine Medical Use of Marijuana Program.

For more information about Colorado, read Colorado’s Marijuana Use Laws.

Summary

As weed use becomes popular in the US, more and more states are legalizing it. To ensure public safety, each state is implementing more regulatory legislation. The legislation differs slightly from state to another, so whenever you are planning to travel to another state, we strongly recommend you read their weed laws so you can avoid getting into trouble with their law enforcement agencies.

Marijuana users are subject to federal and state legislation and at times the two sets of legislation tend to conflict with each other.  We are going to discuss whether having a Medical Marijuana Card affects the holder’s eligibility to purchase a gun and whether the subject can purchase a gun after expiry of their card.

The Federal Government

The Gun Control Act of 1968 states that any individual who unlawfully uses or is addicted to any controlled substance must not own a firearm. According to federal laws cannabis is an illegal substance, therefore, regardless one uses it for medical or relaxation, he or she must not own a gun. Individuals that use it for medical purposes must admit their use on form 4473 lest they face perjury charges.

Federal law stipulates harsh punishment for any individual caught illegally handling the substance.

California

In this state,legit cannabis patient are not eligible for gun ownership. In August 2016, a California-based U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit overwhelmingly ruled 3 – 0 that no medical marijuana user in this state should be allowed to own a firearm.

To reach the decisions, the court relied on information in a letter from the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) that regardless of which state an individual lives in, as long as he or she uses or is addicted to marijuana, is barred by federal law from purchasing or using firearms and ammunition. It does not matter whether for any purpose; the state of residence has legalized use of marijuana.

Worse still, an individual that uses a gun in connection with a drug offense like cultivation, possession, or sale, will face additional criminal charges.

Nevada

The above-stated ruling applies for Nevada because it is one of the nine western states that fall under the California-based U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit’s jurisdiction.

Hawaii

This state openly discriminates against cannabis users owning guns. It has stated that an individual registered in the medical marijuana program is ineligible to legally acquire guns.

Hawaii gun data for 2016 shows that out of the 328 declined gun permits, 42 were on grounds the applicant was a medical marijuana patient. This was 12.8 percent of the total denied permitsand the figure was only second to mental health issues which accounted for 21% of the total denials.

The state only allows medical cannabis patients to apply for gun permits at least one year after their medical marijuana cards expire. A recent change in the federal gun permit application form (Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms,and Explosives (ATF) updated Form 4473)partially accounts for the high denial rates.

The updated form is not only affecting Hawaii but other states such as Oregon that are currently issuing guns to medical cannabis patients.

Oregon

Things are quite different in Oregon; in 2011 a court ruled that individuals who use cannabis can own guns. In fact, Oregon’s Medical Marijuana Law is virtually silent on firearms. It doesn’t bar OMMP patients or cardholders from purchasing or possessing guns. However, State and Federal Lawsconflictwith each other on this matter.

While a marijuana user won’t have any problems with state laws when applying for a gun permit, problems arise when filling out the mandatory Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) Form 4473.With this form, any individual using cannabis for any reason will certainly disqualify for a gun permit.

In Oregon, individuals are allowed to use cannabis for medical and recreational purposes. Also, the State’s Laws do not prohibit individuals who use marijuana from possessing guns. However, if an individual simultaneously is in possession of marijuana and a gun, he or she will be violating Federal law. Also, the State will consider it criminal or an aggravating sentencing factor if an individual uses a firearm in a crime, especially a commercial drug offense.

Reasons for Denying Marijuana Patients Gun Permits

Most medical experts argue that marijuana has multiple effects on users including aggression or violence. In 2011, Nevada resident S. Rowan Wilson filed a lawsuit for being denied a gun permit on grounds she was had a medical marijuana card. She lost the case as the court argued that using drugs such as cannabis raises the risk of unpredictable or irrational behavior, which will make any gun user dangerous.

Public safety is top priority for all governments, and until they can find sufficient proof that marijuana use does not have negative impact on people’s behavior, we are going to see more legislation pass.

Summary

While states such as Oregon allow marijuana users to possess guns, the overall binding federal legislation has made it very difficult for most users. However, a number of marijuana users are willing to trade their gun ownership rights for the substance. We expect to see more changes in these laws in future as more states legalize marijuana use for medical and recreational use.

Individuals living in California that consume cannabis for medical purposes need a medical marijuana card as proof. Unless you have this card, it will be illegal for you to cultivate the substance. If you lost your card, the process of replacing is so easy you can even do it via internet. This article explains the process.

There are 3 ways that someone living in the State of California can get medical marijuana recommendation: visiting a 420 Evaluation Center, consulting with a private doctor, and using online services. Becoming a legal marijuana user is cheap, quick, necessary, and very convenient. On average, it takes an online applicant only 25 minutes to get a valid Medical Marijuana Card.

The Medical Marijuana Card is also known as a MMID, ganja card, prescription, recommendation, and license. The card is simply an advice from a doctor to use marijuana as medicine for a patient’s condition. It bears details such as patient’s name and identification number, actual date, renewal date, an embossed seal, as well as the physician’s signature.

The dispensary you present the documents to must verify the details online or through telephone. Once they approve and register you, they will not require you to provide the data again. However, they will require you to produce a digital or smaller ID, until date of expiration when it will become eligible for renewal. If you lose your ID you will be required to replace it, which is simply the same as renewing. The renewal process is explained next:

Getting the Card Physically

In this case, you will need to visit your personal doctor and request for a recommendation letter. This may work or fail depending on whether or not they believe cannabis is a medicine. The best option will be to visit a marijuana-certified doctor who deals in medical marijuana recommendations. Better known as 420 doctors, they can be found throughout California’s cities.

In some instances visiting a 420 Evaluation Center may end up as a nasty experience. Some of the centers are located in inaccessible and dangerous areas especially in large cities such as San Francisco. Even if one manages to get there, he or she may have to queue for long hours to see a doctor who may end up overcharging for his or her services without providing valuable information for using marijuana as a medicine. Fortunately, the entire process can be completed online in a hassle-free manner.

Getting the Card Online

Provided one meets the qualifying conditions for getting a medical cannabis card in California, getting the card online is far much better than going for it physically. Most people prefer this option because it is safe and convenient. Provided you have an internet enabled device, all you need is fill out a medical form. Individuals that already have medical documents may upload them online. However, the site has to be HIPAA compliant for data privacy.

Before you can begin the assessment, you should decide if you want the recommendation as per the legal requirements, or want a Medical Marijuana Card too. A card offers the benefit of allowing one to visit a dispensary of their choice repeatedly. Most of the internet-based evaluation services attract a fee only when the doctor approves the subject. Otherwise, the consultations should be free.

You will only be required to spend a few minutes doing the evaluation. All you need is consult a doctor via video chat or voice call, where you will discuss your problems, medical history if any, and how marijuana may help treat your condition. If you get approval, the doctor will email you digital PDF document with your recommendation letter.

Upon getting this letter, you should print it out and start using it at the dispensary of your choice. Note that not all dispensaries may accept the letter and that you can start using the letter immediately you print it out.

If the dispensary of your choice requires an official letter, you will have to wait for 2 – 3 days from date of approval for it to arrive via mail. The letter includes various details including an embossed seal, a signed doctor’s recommendation, and your medical cannabis card if you ordered it. Provided you have this, you can purchase and consume marijuana safely and legally.

Conclusion

Medical marijuana is gaining popularity and hundreds of people are getting legal approval every week. To date, the State of California has at least 1.5 million registered users. It is illegal for anyone to use medical marijuana without a doctor’s approval. Any legal userthat loses the recommendation can replace it in a quick and efficient manner and continue use.

Summary

To use medical marijuana in California, an individual should get legal approval. Also, under no circumstances should one cultivate the product with the recommendation, so if it gets lost a patient has to replace it before purchase and use of the product.

If the recommendation gets lost, one may replace in online or through a 420 Evaluation Center. Replacing via the alternative is more convenient than physical replacement, and on average it takes one only 25 minutes to go through the process.

Yes, you read the topic right. Having marijuana-laced candy could now land you in jail in the near future. This is from a few meetings held on November 16 and 17 to discuss more about pot persecutions. Well, when you thought that having recreational marijuana was going to be fun, a few setbacks are evident. The meetings were held by the Joint Judiciary Committee to discuss several bills relating to the use of cannabis products.

The bills included the use of marijuana in foods and drinks. This part of marijuana use has now been added to the criminal code. Right now the bills are being discussed with a few amendments expected to be tabled. If the bills go forward and become law, then more people would be arrested if found with products laced with marijuana. It is not clear about the amount of time you will be in jail, but no one likes it there.

Talking of such ridiculous laws on marijuana, you might want to keep yourself from using pot while in some states. As much as 29 states have legalized the use of medical marijuana, being found in some states that have not legalized is quite the trouble. It is worse considering that you can get recreational weed in the capital DC.

Texas is one of those states that are yet to legalize marijuana. If you come from Canada where the use and growing marijuana is about to go full scale, it might be good to restrain yourself while in Texas. The Texas state has set the possession of marijuana as a felony that can get you anywhere from 6 months to 2 years in prison. Having over a gram in the same state gets you about 10 years and the worst is when you have 4 grams as the jail time is 20 years!

Texas is not the only state with serious laws against possession of marijuana. Florida is another state that does not like marijuana. You can get up to five years in prison for possessing any amount of cannabis. If you are also caught with 21 grams of cannabis flower, you will still get five years in prison. For those who thought that was hard, this possession of pot in Florida makes you lose the right to vote. Not just for a few elections, but for life. This is a state with many people majority being African-Americans who cannot vote because at one time of their lives they were busted for weed.

Things are not different either in the neighbor state Georgia. Here having marijuana is also a felony with some mandatory laws that have to be accompanies. In Florida, a court can be lenient enough to reduce the sentence. In Georgia, you have to get a minimum mandatory jail time of one year. Wow, that must be harsh for those who would like some hash. The worst is when you get arrested for driving under the influence of marijuana. If you fail the urine tests after arrest, you get one day to one year mandatory jail time. That is not all as you also have to do mandatory 40 hours of community service, 20 hours of mandatory drug program and one year on probation.

The charges even get hotter when you move to Oklahoma. Having any amount of marijuana flower can lead to a one year imprisonment. If that is not enough and then you end up with a second offense, it can get you 10 years in prison. Being caught converting marijuana into a concentrate is the worst. You can easily be slapped with a life sentence in prison! Recently, Oklahoma also passed a law to handle those who are arrested with cannabis DUI charges. You can now get 1 year in jail time for a first offense or 10 years as a second offender.

You might have thought that Oklahoma is hell for most marijuana users in America. Apparently, it is not as hot as Arizona state. Being in possession of marijuana hash in Arizona can lead to 4 months up to 2 years in prison and still have to pay a fine of $150,000. The state still has a law on DUID that can get you a jail time of 10 to 180 days, with additional probation for 5 years and having your license suspended for 90 days.

For most states that do not have strict laws on pot possession, they will always have a DUID law. This is when you drive under the influence of drugs. You do not have to be caught red-handed smoking pot to be charged. Most of the time you will have to go through a urine test. Given that cannabis can take up to 30 days to completely be out of the body, you might want to avoid driving even if you smoked legally in the other states that have legalized pot.