{"componentChunkName":"component---common-build-tags-template-js","path":"/tag/news-and-events/3","result":{"data":{"allArticle":{"edges":[{"node":{"id":"Article_2593-markdown","title":"Top 4 Trends in Cannabis for 2018","slug":"top-4-trends-in-cannabis-for-2018","content":"Working in the cannabis industry, I’m always amazed by how quickly the landscape changes. New trends seem to spring out of the ground, some taking hold with others dying off almost as quickly as they appeared. Now that we’ve fully entered into the new year, it’s time to look at my first installment of the top trends dawning in 2018. Here’s my list of the top four marijuana trends for 2018.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### Trend #1: Cannabis Goes Mainstream Worldwide\n\n`embed: https://www.instagram.com/p/BgcOvNHFAs3/`\n_Kikoko's cannabis teas are featured in Oprah's magazine._\n\nWhen my co-founder and I launched HelloMD over four years ago in California, more than a few people made it clear to us that getting into this industry was “a lot like getting into porn or gambling.” The implication was that it was an industry hiding in the shadows and moreover something to be ashamed of. Friends suggested that I make a “Plan B” and told me that having a family while getting involved in cannabis was on the fringe of what might be considered “respectable.” I was called a drug dealer more times than I care to think about, even though product sales was not a part of our roadmap at the time.\n\nFast forward to today, and everything’s changing—and fast. As of now, nine U.S. states have recreational cannabis laws and 19 more states allow marijuana for medical use. Opinion polls indicate that 61% of Americans support cannabis legalization, the highest it’s ever been. Canada, our progressive neighbor to the north, is now dwarfing the U.S. in regards to cannabis research, development and a federal government that supports medicinal and adult-use marijuana among the general population. Not to mention the fact that the Canadian stock exchange is going crazy for marijuana companies. \n\nThe cannabis industry is also now looking to Germany, where the federal government is embracing legalization and cannabis as a “[doctor-prescribed, insurance-paid, and pharmacy-provided product](https://internationalcbc.com/could-germany-become-the-worlds-largest-cannabis-market/).” Germany, the largest member state of the European Union, is now poised to possibly be the world’s largest cannabis market, with its 82 million citizens and positive economic growth forecast.\n\nAnd women are stepping forward, supporting cannabis in the myriad ways that it may be used and consumed. I’ve held a firm belief since my time starting in the cannabis industry, that marijuana would begin to really go mainstream when women embraced the consumption of cannabis. This includes moms who use cannabis to help ease their children’s seizures as well as women who merely advocate for using cannabis as a way to relax and unwind. \n\nWe’ve seen Gwyneth Paltrow vaping within the glossy pages of her magazine _Goop_. In an interview, she states, “It’s incredible to see people who can’t sleep, or people who have chronic pain, report really positive results (with marijuana), and it’s a natural substance.” And most recently, _O Magazine_ did a feature article on Kikoko, an innovative women-owned business in California that hosts high-end tea parties with cannabis-infused tea. When Oprah Winfrey deems cannabis acceptable enough to grace her pages, it’s time to take note. \n\n**FORECAST:** We’ve reached the tipping point. 2018 is the year that cannabis comes out of the closet and goes mainstream. Women will be the driving force in mainstream acceptance as stigma decreases and more mainstream stars, such as Oprah, give cannabis their stamp of approval.\n\n### Trend #2: Cannabis as an Alcohol Replacement\n\n![Cannabis replaces alcohol](https://hellomd-development.s3.amazonaws.com/articles-5abbda6ff24d1300077ccba1-7653114a-fe13-4cc5-9b6a-7a0faf8261a4/original.jpg)\n\nRecently, I decided to reduce my alcohol intake, and sometimes use cannabis instead.  In my experience, microdosing tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is an effective alcohol replacement, without any of the negative side effects that come with drinking alcohol. Consuming cannabidiol (CBD), which has anti-anxiety properties and is non-psychoactive, also helps me relax and unwind after a stressful day at work. Reasons for substituting alcohol with cannabis may vary person to person, but it’s clear that cannabis is starting to be viewed as a healthier substitute for alcohol.\n\nAlcohol is socially acceptable and taps into the pleasure-reward circuit in our brains, yet it causes a multitude of health problems—and in extreme cases death. Nearly 88,000 deaths are attributed to alcohol in the U.S. every year. It affects coordination, memory and even the executive functions of the cerebral cortex. It’s a depressant, can lead to alcoholism and damages the liver. And recent research has indicated that even moderate drinking can lead to brain damage. (Thanks, but I need all the brain cells I have left.) Alcohol is effectively a poison to our bodies; it’s a neurotoxin and, as we all know, can cause nasty unwanted hangovers the day after.\n\nCannabis also taps into our brain’s pleasure-reward circuit, allowing most people to feel good, if not euphoric. The big difference is that marijuana interacts with our endocannabinoid system (ECS), which has receptors throughout the body that respond to the compounds, or cannabinoids, within the plant. These cannabinoids create effects, depending on the person, such as pain relief, relaxation, an increased desire to sleep, decreased inflammation and even a stronger immune response, among other things. Even if someone consumes cannabis recreationally, they may have positive medical outcomes based on the properties inherent within the plant.\n\nFor the health conscious, or for folks who just want to reduce their intake of alcohol overall, cannabis is a great solution. A recent report indicates that millennials “are leading a major shift in consumption behavior as the stigma of cannabis use decreases and the collective perspective of cannabis shifts in a positive direction.” It seems that the purported medical benefits of cannabis minus the negative side effects of alcohol are making an excellent substitution for Friday night beers or Mommy’s chardonnay. In many instances, people have cited that they see marijuana as the “safer” choice over alcohol, and that with cannabis they’re less likely to make poor decisions, such as drinking and driving.\n\nAs people age, the risk of hangovers from alcohol increases. Consuming cannabis doesn’t lead to the same type of response. Although it’s not widely known why we get an alcohol hangover, some research indicates that it’s an inflammatory response that occurs in our bodies, similar to when we fight a viral infection. With cannabis, you don’t lose the entire day after, and as a result it feels as if it leads to a healthier and more active lifestyle for many.\n\nThe good news about this trend is that there have been zero cannabis-related deaths, so if society collectively shifts towards cannabis as an alcohol replacement, it may also save lives. And let’s face it, you don’t find many people in a bar fight after vaping cannabis.\n\n**FORECAST:** Cannabis is increasingly becoming more socially acceptable and is a great alternative to alcohol. As a result, people are taking notice. Expect to see more and more people abstaining from alcohol in lieu of cannabis as well as more cannabis gatherings where alcohol is decidedly absent.\n  \n### Trend #3: Cannabinoid THCV Can Help With Weight Management\n\n![THCV suppresses appetite](https://hellomd-development.s3.amazonaws.com/articles-5abbda6ff24d1300077ccba1-55da7ee6-514f-4b64-b1d8-9a01b68ee757/original.jpg)\n\nEveryone knows about THC, the rock star cannabinoid in marijuana that boasts not only numerous medicinal properties but the psychoactivity that produces the high cannabis is so well known for. People are now also aware of CBD, the other superstar cannabinoid that’s non-psychoactive and is also an analgesic, anti-inflammatory, anti-spasmodic; it’s also really good at quelling anxiety.\n\nNow we have a new cannabinoid kid on the block: tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV)—and the hype may be warranted.\n\nTHCV was called the “[sports car of cannabinoids](https://www.steephill.com/blogs/38)” by Steep Hill labs for the strong energetic effect it creates. It contains around 25% of the psychoactivity of THC and may reduce or even stop panic attacks, which may be common for some people when ingesting strains higher in THC.\n\nTHCV is also known to be an anti-convulsant and a neuroprotectant; it may help with diabetes and is becoming well known for suppressing appetite. For people looking to eat less or radically suppress the desire to binge eat, THCV may be a possible solution. Note though, that THCV may make sleeping more difficult, so consuming it late at night to avoid fridge raids may be ill-advised.\n\nIt’s very rare to find THCV on its own. Most likely, it’s within cannabis flowers that also contain THC. Interestingly, THCV has the ability to alter some of THC’s effects, including elevated heart rate or impaired short-term memory. If you’re easily able to tolerate THC and enjoy psychoactive effects, THCV may be your ticket to weight management and increased energy.\n\n**FORECAST:** People who are interested in weight management and a more balanced high will be asking cannabis retailers for strains higher in THCV. This in turn will lead to more strains becoming available. In addition, THCV-dominant strains will start to appear as well as THCV distillates.\n\n### Trend #4: Indica & Sativa Are Out—Terpenes Are In \n\n![Phylos galaxy mapping cannabis genetics](https://hellomd-development.s3.amazonaws.com/articles-5abbda6ff24d1300077ccba1-eaa6b889-3c47-455f-9d97-69a398f9e90a/original.jpg)\n_The Phylos Galaxy, a data visualization of cannabis genetics._\n\n“Help me find an indica strain that will put me to sleep.” This is a common statement along with, “Which sativa will wake me up and help me feel more energetic, more focused?” Typically, people go into a dispensary, and the cannabis consultant might suggest an indica for sleep or relaxation, a sativa for energetic daytime use or a hybrid strain for something in between. But according to genetics researchers, these classifications are now misleading, if not downright untrue. Mowgli Holmes, a geneticist that started Phylos Bioscience says, “If there were ever discrete varieties like that (indica, sativa, hybrid), they're gone now—they've just been bred out of existence.”\n\nMowgli’s company is mapping the genetics of cannabis through DNA sequencing with the goal of understanding the evolutionary history of each strain in the hopes of helping people better understand what they’re consuming. Creating [data visualization from each cannabis sample](http://galaxy.phylosbioscience.com/) has allowed us to see how closely related—or not—one strain is to another.\n\nClusters within the galaxy show close relationships between varieties of cannabis such as OG Kush, one of the most popular strains sold on the market today. In other words, many varieties are closely related, but have little to or nothing to do with indica, sativa or hybrid. To complicate matters, varieties were crossed with each other more frequently over the past 40 years, resulting in a big mish mash, creating even less certainty over lineage.  \n\nIn lieu of sativa, indica and hybrid, many people are beginning to refer to the terpene profile of marijuana strains, which in many ways may have a larger impact on the overall effects as well as the therapeutic value of different cannabis strains. Terpenes are the oil compounds found in plants, such as cannabis, and some insects. They’re responsible for the taste and smell of cannabis plants, and possess medicinal benefits. There are 140 or more terpenes within cannabis, and they’re thought to increase the effects of the cannabinoids within cannabis. \n\nA recent study  by Dr. Ethan Russo, the director of research and development at the International Cannabis and Cannabinoids Institute, found that “[terpenoids are quite potent, and affect animal and even human behavior when inhaled](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3165946/).” They also noted that “[terpenes] display unique therapeutic effects that may contribute meaningfully to the entourage effects of cannabis-based medicinal extracts.”\n\nInterestingly, some terpenes act as an inhibitor to THC’s psychoactive high, which increases cannabis’s therapeutic values. Russo says terpenes “increase the potential of cannabis-based medicinal extracts to treat pain, inflammation, fungal and bacterial infections, depression, anxiety, addiction, epilepsy and even cancer.”\n\n**FORECAST:** We’ll see sativa, indica and hybrid used less and less in branded products and start to see individual terpenes listed when applicable.\n\nWe’ll have to see what the rest of 2018 has in store for the cannabis industry, but it’s clear that innovations in cannabis plants and products aren’t slowing down anytime soon. \n\nPhoto credits: [Josh Felise](https://unsplash.com/@jfelise) for main image; [Jamie Street](https://unsplash.com/@jamie452) for Trend #2 image; [Jonathan Rolande](https://www.flickr.com/photos/jonathanrolande/) for Trend #3 image; [Phylos Bioscience](http://galaxy.phylosbioscience.com/) for Trend #4 image\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-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":1.3605442176870748,"src":"/static/1e823cd798c3e5aded7cdd46f5216b86/14b42/6a9d43cb63574ea090a0e84cf0967cf7.jpg","srcSet":"/static/1e823cd798c3e5aded7cdd46f5216b86/f836f/6a9d43cb63574ea090a0e84cf0967cf7.jpg 200w,\n/static/1e823cd798c3e5aded7cdd46f5216b86/2244e/6a9d43cb63574ea090a0e84cf0967cf7.jpg 400w,\n/static/1e823cd798c3e5aded7cdd46f5216b86/14b42/6a9d43cb63574ea090a0e84cf0967cf7.jpg 800w,\n/static/1e823cd798c3e5aded7cdd46f5216b86/47498/6a9d43cb63574ea090a0e84cf0967cf7.jpg 1200w,\n/static/1e823cd798c3e5aded7cdd46f5216b86/0e329/6a9d43cb63574ea090a0e84cf0967cf7.jpg 1600w,\n/static/1e823cd798c3e5aded7cdd46f5216b86/808c6/6a9d43cb63574ea090a0e84cf0967cf7.jpg 1955w","srcWebp":"/static/1e823cd798c3e5aded7cdd46f5216b86/58556/6a9d43cb63574ea090a0e84cf0967cf7.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/1e823cd798c3e5aded7cdd46f5216b86/61e93/6a9d43cb63574ea090a0e84cf0967cf7.webp 200w,\n/static/1e823cd798c3e5aded7cdd46f5216b86/1f5c5/6a9d43cb63574ea090a0e84cf0967cf7.webp 400w,\n/static/1e823cd798c3e5aded7cdd46f5216b86/58556/6a9d43cb63574ea090a0e84cf0967cf7.webp 800w,\n/static/1e823cd798c3e5aded7cdd46f5216b86/99238/6a9d43cb63574ea090a0e84cf0967cf7.webp 1200w,\n/static/1e823cd798c3e5aded7cdd46f5216b86/7c22d/6a9d43cb63574ea090a0e84cf0967cf7.webp 1600w,\n/static/1e823cd798c3e5aded7cdd46f5216b86/3d3a0/6a9d43cb63574ea090a0e84cf0967cf7.webp 1955w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2594-markdown","title":"Prop 64 Rollout: Has It Put the Cannabis Industry in Trouble?","slug":"prop-64-rollout-has-it-put-the-cannabis-industry-in-trouble","content":"It’s been a little more than two months since California became the latest state in the nation to legalize cannabis for recreational use. On March 1, a virtual who’s who of state lawmakers, cannabis entrepreneurs, and county and city officials spoke to a packed house in Mendocino County. Entitled the “First 60 Days of Prop 64,” the official hearing was hailed as an opportunity for California lawmakers, business people and local officials to brief attendees on the successes and challenges of legalization—and to listen to concerns from the public.\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\nThe lengthy hearing was [live-streamed](http://sd02.senate.ca.gov) and co-chaired by Assembly Member Jim Wood and Senator Mike McGuire, whose districts encompass California’s North Coast and sizeable swaths of the Emerald Triangle. Both Woods and McGuire have been instrumental in their support for and rollout of Proposition 64. The third co-chair in attendance was Senator Jerry Hill (D-San Mateo).\r\n\r\n### Regulating a Previously Unregulated Cannabis Industry\r\n\r\nWhether it was Lori Ajax, chief of the state’s Bureau of Cannabis Control (BCC), Tony Linegar, Sonoma County agriculture commissioner or Hezekiah Allen, CEO of the California Growers Association, speaker after speaker detailed the complexities of regulating a previously unregulated marijuana industry.\r\n\r\nRELATED: [RECREATIONAL CANNABIS BRINGS SUCCESS & CHALLENGES TO CA](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a80e74af24d1300077ccb40/recreational-cannabis-brings-success-and-challenges-to-ca)\r\n\r\nRex Bohn, vice-chair for the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors addressed the overflow crowd. “The biggest problem we have is synching all the agencies together. You guys can’t be a pawn in that game,” he told the audience, referring to the difficulty of county departments coordinating with one another to ensure overall cannabis compliance with the state. \r\n\r\nCalifornia’s cannabis program is still operating under emergency regulations. To date, 1,307 temporary licenses for cannabis retailers and manufacturers have been issued statewide. Ajax hopes feedback from this and other meetings will help a BCC advisory committee address unintended consequences arising from the emergency regulations, which expire after one year and must be replaced with finalized rules.  \r\n\r\n### Are the Feds Coming for Legal Marijuana? \r\n\r\nAttorney General Jeff Sessions has made the federal government’s position on cannabis clear. His decision to rescind the Obama-era [Cole Memo](http://fortune.com/2018/01/09/doj-jeff-sessions-marijuana-crackdown-cole-memo/) once again places 29 legal and medicinal cannabis states in the Fed’s crosshairs.\r\n\r\nWith the threat of federal intervention back on the horizon, Senator McGuire asked Ajax, “What’s plan B for California?”\r\n\r\n“We came right out of the gate, including a lot of California leaders, saying our regulations still follow the guidelines of the Cole Memo, and we will continue to do that. California has legalized both medicinal and adult-use cannabis, and we’re going to regulate it. That is the focus of all us—to follow California law and the will of the people,” said Ajax.\r\n\r\n### Taking it to the Bank? Not if You’re a Canna-Business\r\n\r\nWith few banks willing to work with the industry, cannabis distributors are forced to transport large sums of money, including state taxes they’re required to collect from retailers and cultivators. Bill Silver is the CEO of CannaCraft, which provides patients with some of California’s most popular medical cannabis products. He summed up the banking problem by asking, “How many people think it’s a good idea to drive around with tens of thousands of dollars in a pickup truck?” \r\n\r\n“We recognize it’s really difficult to pay your taxes if you’re not in the banking system,” noted Nicolas Maduros, director of California’s Department of Tax and Fee Administration. “As yet, we have not found the answer.” \r\n\r\nAs a stopgap measure, 11 statewide offices will soon be authorized to accept cash payments of cannabis taxes and fees.\r\n\r\nSenator Bob Hertzberg (D-Van Nuys) introduced a [bill that could help financial institutions safely conduct transactions with cannabis businesses](http://sd18.senate.ca.gov/news/1292018-california-cannabis-bank-hurry-and-set-it). If passed, the bill will solve some, but not all of the cannabis industry’s banking problems.\r\n\r\n### How Is Medical Cannabis Faring After Prop 64? \r\n\r\nJude Thilman, owner of Dragonfly Wellness Center, a medical cannabis-focused dispensary on the Mendocino Coast, expressed concern for medical cannabis patients and outlets. “There are folks out in the hills who have been creating medicines you cannot find anywhere else. They’re not getting compliant. We don’t have an avenue for them. I’m afraid we’re going to go the route of Washington and Colorado, and lose medicine altogether.” Thilman urged lawmakers to recognize and support those who produce “some of the best craft medicines in the world.”\r\n\r\nCannaCraft’s written report outlined a massive reduction in the number of small businesses working with them, resulting in reduced access to their medical cannabis products. In 2017, CannaCraft sold products to 468 dispensaries statewide. Today, that number has plummeted to only 120 licensed dispensaries—a 75% reduction in retailers offering their medicine.  \r\n\r\n### CA Grower’s Association, AG Commissioner Sound Alarms\r\n\r\n“With Prop 64, the devil is in the details,” noted Hezekiah Allen, CEO of the [California Growers Association](https://www.calgrowersassociation.org), which has been fighting to preserve the livelihood of California’s small farmers and craft cannabis producers. \r\n\r\n“In some ways, we are seeing the worst possible outcome,” Allen said. He stated the unregulated market is flooded with “great product grown by people who desperately want a license, but are not able to comply” due to the difficulty of obtaining licenses.\r\n\r\nHe implored lawmakers to reform tax laws that are hobbling small farmers, to create consistent departmental enforcement policies and to extend timelines to address massive environmental cleanup requirements that some farmers face. “Small growers can’t fix the problems Big Timber put on our watersheds,” said Allen. \r\n\r\nThe hearing continued with scathing testimony by Tony Linegar, who has a decade of experience administering and regulating all types of agricultural activities, first as agriculture commissioner for Mendocino County, and now in the same position in Sonoma County.\r\n\r\n“If the overall goal of this program was to create a regulatory scheme to favor corporate, big-dollar industry, we’ve succeeded. If the goal was to create a regulatory pathway for existing cultivators to become legal, I think we’ve failed. Any other agricultural business I know of would be run out of business if they were held to this standard.” Linegar sees no compelling reason to regulate cannabis any differently than other crops, other than to ensure safety and address odor mitigation issues.\r\n\r\n### The CA Cannabis Industry in Peril Already? \r\n\r\nNumerous members of the public addressed the panel, stating they had or were about to shutter their cannabis businesses. Their plight was addressed by Woods: “I worry that we will not have adequate product for the market, and that if we’re not cognizant of that, we could have the collapse of an industry that’s barely getting started.” \r\n\r\nPhoto credit: [Esteban Lopez](https://unsplash.com/@exxteban)\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 private, easy and 100% online.","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3888888888888888,"src":"/static/d55c3b608e36ac1bbb5adb5d5532c4fa/14b42/ce8b0e67fddb72e72885c1b4110ded05.jpg","srcSet":"/static/d55c3b608e36ac1bbb5adb5d5532c4fa/f836f/ce8b0e67fddb72e72885c1b4110ded05.jpg 200w,\n/static/d55c3b608e36ac1bbb5adb5d5532c4fa/2244e/ce8b0e67fddb72e72885c1b4110ded05.jpg 400w,\n/static/d55c3b608e36ac1bbb5adb5d5532c4fa/14b42/ce8b0e67fddb72e72885c1b4110ded05.jpg 800w,\n/static/d55c3b608e36ac1bbb5adb5d5532c4fa/47498/ce8b0e67fddb72e72885c1b4110ded05.jpg 1200w,\n/static/d55c3b608e36ac1bbb5adb5d5532c4fa/0e329/ce8b0e67fddb72e72885c1b4110ded05.jpg 1600w,\n/static/d55c3b608e36ac1bbb5adb5d5532c4fa/48ebc/ce8b0e67fddb72e72885c1b4110ded05.jpg 3471w","srcWebp":"/static/d55c3b608e36ac1bbb5adb5d5532c4fa/58556/ce8b0e67fddb72e72885c1b4110ded05.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/d55c3b608e36ac1bbb5adb5d5532c4fa/61e93/ce8b0e67fddb72e72885c1b4110ded05.webp 200w,\n/static/d55c3b608e36ac1bbb5adb5d5532c4fa/1f5c5/ce8b0e67fddb72e72885c1b4110ded05.webp 400w,\n/static/d55c3b608e36ac1bbb5adb5d5532c4fa/58556/ce8b0e67fddb72e72885c1b4110ded05.webp 800w,\n/static/d55c3b608e36ac1bbb5adb5d5532c4fa/99238/ce8b0e67fddb72e72885c1b4110ded05.webp 1200w,\n/static/d55c3b608e36ac1bbb5adb5d5532c4fa/7c22d/ce8b0e67fddb72e72885c1b4110ded05.webp 1600w,\n/static/d55c3b608e36ac1bbb5adb5d5532c4fa/3166e/ce8b0e67fddb72e72885c1b4110ded05.webp 3471w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2556-markdown","title":"Cannabis in America: A State-by-State Guide","slug":"cannabis-in-america-a-state-by-state-guide","content":"For cannabis consumers, visiting or moving to another state can be a confusing, costly and a potentially dangerous experience. Though more and more states are moving toward approval of medical marijuana—and some states like California have adopted regulated, recreational cannabis use, there are still many parts of the country where simple possession of cannabis is illegal. \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### Regardless of State Laws, Marijuana Is Still Federally Illegal\r\n\r\nThough states have the right to regulate marijuana, regardless of where you are, cannabis is still classified as a Schedule 1 drug by the federal government. According to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration’s Controlled Substances Act, Schedule 1 substances are defined as “[drugs with no currently accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse](https://www.dea.gov/druginfo/ds.shtml).” Medical cannabis users aren’t exempt from federal law. Always be aware of local laws and carry your valid recommendation when and wherever you travel.\r\n\r\n### State Cannabis Laws: 50 Shades of Legal\r\n\r\nMarijuana laws can be divided into five categories:\r\n\r\n* **Legal for personal use:** “Recreational” cannabis is authorized in these states. Personal use states have adjunct medical marijuana programs that usually preceded recreational use. California is an example of one of these states.\r\n\r\n* **Legal for medical use:** Qualified medical patients have access to medical marijuana. The types of marijuana available to patients varies from state to state. New York is a medical marijuana state.\r\n\r\n* **Decriminalized states:** This usually means that states have reduced sentences for simple possession of small amounts of marijuana. Some, but not all decriminalized states offer medical marijuana programs. Illinois is an example of a decriminalized state with a medical cannabis program.\r\n\r\n* **CBD-specific programs:** These are programs that only provide marijuana products rich in cannabidiol (CBD). In some cases, states only authorize patients with epilepsy to use CBD cannabis products. Florida is an example of a state implementing a CBD-specific program.\r\n\r\n* **Illegal states:** These are the states where it’s just plain illegal to possess cannabis in any way, shape or form. Idaho is an example of a state where all forms of possession and consumption are illegal.\r\n\t\r\n### Cannabis Laws State by State \r\n\r\nThis state-by-state guide will provide you with the latest laws regarding cannabis possession throughout the U.S. Remember that laws are always changing, and that in states like California, individual jurisdictions often choose to tailor state laws to fit their local communities. We’ve included links to the specifics on all of the rules and laws that govern marijuana in each state. \r\n\r\nRELATED: [RECREATIONAL CANNABIS BRINGS SUCCESS & CHALLENGES TO CA](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a80e74af24d1300077ccb40/recreational-cannabis-brings-success-and-challenges-to-ca)\r\n\r\nEvery medical state authorizes different medical conditions. States also vary when it comes to transporting, processing and distributing cannabis. Many states treat possession of concentrates differently from possession of cannabis flower. Even if you live in a legal state, it’s still illegal to transport cannabis across state lines. \r\n\r\nRemember: Even in legal states, people who break cannabis-related laws are arrested every day. Informed cannabis consumers make safer cannabis consumers. \r\n\r\n**Alabama:** A [CBD-specific medical marijuana program allows for the use of high-CBD extracts](http://www.safeaccessnow.org/becoming_a_patient_in_alabama)  for patients with qualifying conditions. The [University of Alabama](http://www.uab.edu/medicine/neurology/research/uab-cannabidiol-program) is conducting a CBD study in which patients may enroll. For non-patients, [possession of marijuana is a Class A Misdemeanor](http://norml.org/laws/item/alabama-penalties), punishable by a maximum sentence of one year and a maximum fine of $6,000. Hashish and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) concentrates are considered Schedule 1 substances. Possession of Schedule 1 substances may result in a prison sentence between one and 10 years. \r\n\r\n**Alaska:** [Cannabis is legal for adult personal use and medical use](http://www.safeaccessnow.org/becoming_a_patient_in_alaska) for patients with qualifying medical conditions. Patients must apply for a [medical marijuana card](http://dhss.alaska.gov/dph/VitalStats/Pages/marijuana.aspx). Patients and recreational users may possess up to 1 ounce of marijuana and may grow up to six plants. [Possession of 3 grams or less of concentrates is a misdemeanor](http://norml.org/laws/item/alaska-penalties) with a maximum fine of $10,000. \r\n\r\n**Arizona:** [Medical marijuana is authorized](http://www.safeaccessnow.org/becoming_a_patient_in_arizona) for patients with a variety of qualifying conditions. Patients with a [state-issued registry card](http://www.azdhs.gov/licensing/medical-marijuana/index.php) may possess 2.5 ounces of usable cannabis and some cultivation is allowed. For non-patients, [possession of less than 2 pounds of flowers or concentrates is punishable](http://norml.org/laws/item/arizona-penalties) by incarceration and a maximum fine of $150,000. \r\n\r\n**Arkansas:**                 [Medical marijuana has been newly authorized](http://www.safeaccessnow.org/becoming_a_patient_in_arkansas) for patients with a variety of qualifying conditions. For non-patients, [possession of less than 4 ounces of marijuana is a Class A Misdemeanor] ]( http://norml.org/laws/item/arkansas-penalties), punishable by up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. Visiting qualifying patients may obtain marijuana from a dispensary with completion of a visiting patient form and presentation of a valid physician’s recommendation. \r\n\r\n**California:**                 [Cannabis is legal for adult personal use and medical use](http://norml.org/laws/item/california-penalties) for patients with a variety of qualifying conditions. Patients may apply for a [state-issued ID card](https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHSI/Pages/Medial-Marijuana-Identification-Card.aspx), which exempts qualified patients from paying some local sales taxes on cannabis purchases at dispensaries. Under the Compassionate Use Act, patients may possess and transport up to 8 ounces of dried cannabis and up to six mature plants. Patients requiring larger amounts of cannabis may [possess and cultivate any amount reasonably related to your current medical needs](https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/DO/letstalkcannabis/CDPH%20Document%20Library/October%202017%20Update/CDPH-Medicinal.pdf). For non-patients, adults 21 and over may [possess up to 1 ounce of flowers](https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/DO/letstalkcannabis/CDPH%20Document%20Library/October%202017%20Update/CDPH-Legal.pdf), 8 grams of concentrates and grow up to six plants for personal use.\r\n\r\n**Colorado:**                 [Cannabis is legal for adult personal use and medical use](http://norml.org/laws/item/colorado-penalties) for patients with a variety of qualifying conditions. Patients may apply for a [state-issued ID card](https://www.colorado.gov/pacific/cdphe/medical-marijuana-registry-patients) and may possess up to 2 ounces of cannabis and cultivate up to six mature plants. Non-patients may possess up to 1 ounce of flowers, up to 1 ounce of concentrates and cultivate up to six plants.\r\n\r\n**Connecticut:**             [Cannabis is decriminalized](http://norml.org/laws/item/connecticut-penalties) with minimal penalties for possession of small amounts of cannabis. Connecticut has a [medical marijuana program](http://norml.org/legal/item/connecticut-medical-marijuana) authorizing cannabis use for patients with a variety of qualifying conditions. Patients may possess a 2.5-ounce monthly supply of cannabis but may not grow marijuana. [Medical marijuana certificates](http://www.portal.ct.gov/DCP/Medical-Marijuana-Program/Medical-Marijuana-Program) are issued by the state, and patients must be residents of Connecticut. Non-patients may possess up to 1/2 ounce of flower or concentrates, with a maximum fine of $150.\r\n\r\n**Delaware:** Cannabis is decriminalized with [minimal penalties for possession of small amounts of cannabis](http://norml.org/laws/item/delaware-penalties). Delaware has a [medical marijuana program](http://dhss.delaware.gov/dph/hsp/medmarhome.html) authorizing cannabis use for patients with a variety of qualifying conditions. Patients may possess up to 6 ounces at a time and obtain 3 ounces every 14 days. Three “compassion centers” provide all cannabis distribution in the state. Non-patients may possess up to 1 ounce of flowers or concentrates, with a maximum fine of $100. \r\n\r\n**Florida:**                      A [CBD-specific medical marijuana program is authorized](http://www.floridahealth.gov/programs-and-services/office-of-medical-marijuana-use/patients/_documents/ommu-patient.pdf) for patients suffering from cancer, muscle spasms, seizures, terminal illness and other qualifying conditions. Patients must obtain a state-issued [registry identification card](http://www.floridahealth.gov/programs-and-services/office-of-medical-marijuana-use/patients/index.html) and can then purchase low-THC products from state-licensed dispensaries. For non-patients, [possession of 20 grams or less of cannabis is a misdemeanor](http://norml.org/laws/item/florida-penalties) punishable by a maximum sentence of one year imprisonment and a maximum fine of $1,000.\r\n\r\n**Georgia:**                    A [CBD-specific medical marijuana program is authorized](http://politics.myajc.com/news/state--regional-govt--politics/expansion-georgia-medical-marijuana-law-wins-final-passage/eWu6EKL9U9NOeTLWapf6UK/) for patients suffering from eight specific illnesses including cancer and Parkinson’s disease. Patients must obtain a state-issued [Low THC Registry Card](https://dph.georgia.gov/low-thc-oil-faq-general-public), which allows possession of up to 20 fluid ounces of “low-THC oil.” For non-patients, [possession of 1 ounce or less of marijuana is a misdemeanor](http://norml.org/laws/item/georgia-penalties) punishable by up to 12 months in prison and a maximum fine of $1,000.\r\n\r\n**Hawaii:**                     [Medical marijuana is authorized](http://www.safeaccessnow.org/becoming_a_patient_in_hawaii) for patients with a variety of qualifying conditions. Patients may apply for a state-issued “329 Registry Card” which entitles them to possess 4 ounces of cannabis and grow up to 10 plants. For non-patients, [possession of less than 1 ounce of marijuana is a misdemeanor](http://norml.org/laws/item/hawaii-penalties) punishable by up to 30 days imprisonment and/or a fine of $1,000. \r\n\t\t\r\n**Idaho:**                        Cannabis is illegal. [Possession of 3 ounces or less of marijuana or concentrates is a misdemeanor](http://norml.org/laws/item/idaho-penalties) punishable by up to one year imprisonment and/or a fine up to $1,000. \r\n\r\n**Illinois:**                       [Cannabis is decriminalized](http://norml.org/laws/item/illinois-penalties) with possession of 10 grams of marijuana or less a civil violation, punishable by a fine of $100–$200 and no jail time. Illinois has a [medical cannabis program](http://www.dph.illinois.gov/topics-services/prevention-wellness/medical-cannabis/medical-cannabis-registry-application) for patients with a variety of qualifying conditions. Patients may apply for a state-issued registry card and may possess 2.5 ounces of cannabis every 14 days. \r\n\t\t\r\n**Indiana:**                     A [CBD-specific medical marijuana program allows for the use of high-CBD extracts](https://hightimes.com/news/indiana-senate-approves-restrictive-medical-marijuana-program/) for patients with debilitating epilepsy. For non-patients, possession of any amount of marijuana is a Class B misdemeanor punishable by not more than 180 days and a possible fine of not more than $1,000. [Possession of concentrates is a Class A misdemeanor](http://norml.org/laws/item/indiana-penalties-2), punishable by a maximum imprisonment of one year and a maximum fine of $5,000.\r\n\r\n**Idaho:**                        Cannabis is illegal. [Possession of 3 ounces or less of marijuana is a misdemeanor](http://norml.org/laws/item/idaho-penalties), punishable by up to one year imprisonment and/or a fine up to $1,000.\r\n\r\n**Iowa:**                         A [CBD-specific medical marijuana program allows for the use of high CBD extracts](http://norml.org/legal/item/iowa-cbd-marijuana-law) for patients with qualifying conditions. Currently no state outlets exist, but patients are allowed to obtain medicine from neighboring states. For non-patients, [possession of any amount of marijuana is a misdemeanor](http://norml.org/laws/item/iowa-penalties-2) and is punishable by a fine of up to $1,000 and/or up to six months of imprisonment. \r\n\r\n**Kansas:**                     Cannabis is illegal. [Possession of marijuana and concentrates is a Class B misdemeanor](http://norml.org/laws/item/kansas-penalties-2) and is punishable by a maximum of six months imprisonment and a maximum fine of $1,000 for a first-time offense.\r\n\r\n**Kentucky:**                  A [CBD-specific medical marijuana program is available](http://www.safeaccessnow.org/becoming_a_patient_in_kentucky) for patients with any condition authorized by a physician. Patients may only obtain a written order for CBD from a doctor practicing at a hospital or associated clinic affiliated with a Kentucky public university that has a college or school of medicine, or by participating in a clinical trial. For non-patients, [possession of up to 8 ounces of marijuana and concentrates is a Class B misdemeanor](http://norml.org/laws/item/kentucky-penalties-2), punishable by a maximum sentence of 45 days imprisonment and a maximum fine of $250.\r\n\r\n**Louisiana:**                 Though a medical marijuana program for qualified patients was voted into law in 2015, [patients in Louisiana are still waiting for the program’s rollout](https://www.thecannabist.co/2017/09/18/louisiana-medical-marijuana-grower-contract/88268/). For non-patients, [possession of 14 grams or less of marijuana is punishable](http://norml.org/laws/item/louisiana-penalties-2#mandatory) by a fine of up to $300 and/or up to 15 days of imprisonment.\r\n\r\n**Maine:**                        [Cannabis is legal for adult personal use and medical use](http://www.safeaccessnow.org/becoming_a_patient_in_maine) for a variety of qualifying conditions. Patients are allowed to possess 2.5 ounces and six mature plants. Non-patient adults may [possess up to 2.5 ounces of marijuana](http://norml.org/laws/item/maine-penalties-2) or up to 2.5 ounces of a combination of marijuana and concentrates with no more than 5 grams of concentrates. Adults may cultivate up to six flowering marijuana plants, 12 immature plants and unlimited seedlings.\r\n\r\n**Maryland:**                  [Cannabis is decriminalized](http://norml.org/laws/item/maryland-penalties-2), with simple possession of less than 10 grams a civil offense and fines not exceeding $100 for first-time offenders. [Maryland has a medical cannabis program](http://www.safeaccessnow.org/becoming_a_patient_in_maryland) authorizing possession of no more than 120 grams of cannabis or 36 grams of extracts. The program is beginning to provide cannabis to dispensaries as of early 2018, and non-mandatory patient ID cards are available through the state. \r\n\r\n**Massachusetts:**         [Cannabis is legal for adult personal use and medical use](http://www.safeaccessnow.org/becoming_a_patient_in_massachusetts) for patients with a variety of qualifying conditions. Patients may possess up to 10 ounces of cannabis every two months and limited growing options are available. [State-issued ID cards](https://www.mass.gov/how-to/register-as-a-patient-with-the-medical-use-of-marijuana-program) are available for patients. Non-patients may possess [up to 1 ounce of marijuana and up to 5 grams of marijuana concentrate in their residence](http://norml.org/laws/item/massachusetts-penalties-2).\r\n\r\n**Michigan:**                  [Medical marijuana is authorized](http://www.safeaccessnow.org/becoming_a_patient_in_michigan) for patients with a variety of qualifying conditions. Patients may possess 2.5 ounces of cannabis and grow up to 12 plants. Patients may apply for a [state-issued registry ID card](http://www.michigan.gov/lara/0,4601,7-154-79571_79575---,00.html). For non-patients, [possession of any amount is a misdemeanor](http://norml.org/laws/item/michigan-penalties-2), which is punishable by a maximum sentence of one year imprisonment and a maximum fine of $2,000.\r\n \t\t\r\n**Minnesota:**                [Cannabis is decriminalized](http://norml.org/laws/item/minnesota-penalties-2#decriminalized), with possession of 42.5 grams or less a misdemeanor punishable by a maximum fine of $200. Minnesota has a [medical cannabis program](http://www.safeaccessnow.org/becoming_a_patient_in_minnesota) for patients with qualifying conditions. Patients may possess a 30-day supply of non-smokable preparations, and no cultivation is allowed.\r\n\r\n**Mississippi:**               [Cannabis is decriminalized](http://norml.org/laws/item/mississippi-penalties-2) with a first offense for possession of 30 grams or less punishable by a fine of $100–$250. Mississippi has a CBD-specific medical marijuana program [allowing for the use of high CBD extracts for patients with debilitating epilepsy](http://www.safeaccessnow.org/becoming_a_patient_in_mississippi). Patients may possess cannabis extracts that contain more than 15% CBD and no more than 0.5% THC. \r\n\r\n**Missouri:**                   [Cannabis is decriminalized](http://norml.org/laws/item/missouri-penalties-2), with possession of up to 10 grams for first-time offenders a Class D misdemeanor, punishable by a maximum fine of $500. Missouri has a [CBD-specific medical marijuana program](http://www.safeaccessnow.org/becoming_a_patient_in_missouri) for patients with debilitating epilepsy. Patients may possess 20 ounces of cannabis extracts containing 5% or more of CBD and no more than three-tenths of 1% percent of THC. [A bill was recently introduced to the Missouri legislature](https://www.columbiamissourian.com/news/state_news/medical-marijuana-proposal-limited-to-those-with-terminal-conditions/article_0031907e-0b9d-11e8-b798-4fc95ba8284c.html), which if passed would expand the state’s medical cannabis program.\r\n\t\r\n**Montana:**                   [Medical marijuana is authorized for patients with qualifying conditions](http://www.safeaccessnow.org/becoming_a_patient_in_montana). Patients may possess up to 1 ounce of cannabis, cultivate up to four mature plants and may apply for a state-issued [patient registry card](http://dphhs.mt.gov/marijuana.aspx#659637679-cardholders). Non-patients possessing 60 grams or less of marijuana can be convicted of a [misdemeanor, punishable by up to six months imprisonment and a fine of $100-$500](http://norml.org/laws/item/montana-penalties-2). \r\n\r\n**Nebraska:**                 [Cannabis is decriminalized](http://norml.org/laws/item/nebraska-penalties-2) with possession of 1 ounce or less an infraction punishable by a maximum fine of $300 and possible drug education. Possession of hash is a Class IV felony, punishable by a maximum sentence of five years’ imprisonment and a maximum fine of $10,000. \r\n\r\n**Nevada:**                    [Cannabis is legal for adult personal use and medical use](http://www.safeaccessnow.org/becoming_a_patient_in_nevada) for patients with a variety of qualifying medical conditions. Patients with a [state-issued medical card](http://dpbh.nv.gov/Reg/MM-Patient-Cardholder-Registry/MM_Patient_Cardholder_Registry_-_Home/) may possess 2.5 ounces of flowers and other products in a 14-day period and cultivation is allowed for patients. Patients holding valid medical marijuana recommendations from other recognized states may purchase cannabis in Nevada. Recreational users may possess up to 1 ounce and/or up to 3.5 grams of concentrate. \r\n\r\n**New Hampshire:**       [Cannabis is decriminalized](http://norml.org/laws/item/new-hampshire-penalties-2) with adults 18 years of age or older possessing less than three-quarters of an ounce of marijuana guilty of a violation and subject to a fine of $100. New Hampshire has a [medical marijuana program](http://www.safeaccessnow.org/becoming_a_patient_in_new_hampshire) for patients with a variety of qualifying conditions. Patients with [state registry ID cards](https://www.dhhs.nh.gov/oos/tcp/documents/applicationpatient.pdf) may possess 2 ounces of marijuana, and it must be purchased from one of three treatment centers. \r\n\r\n**New Jersey:**              [Medical marijuana is authorized for patients with qualifying medical conditions](http://www.safeaccessnow.org/becoming_a_patient_in_new_jersey). Patients may possess 2 ounces per month and no cultivation is allowed. Patients must [register with the state and purchase their cannabis at authorized treatment centers](http://www.state.nj.us/health/medicalmarijuana/patients/). For non-patients, [possession of 50 grams or less is punishable](http://norml.org/laws/item/new-jersey-penalties-2) by a maximum sentence of six months imprisonment and a maximum fine of $1,000.\r\n\r\n**New Mexico:**             [Medical marijuana is authorized](http://www.safeaccessnow.org/becoming_a_patient_in_new_mexico) for patients with qualifying medical conditions. Patients may possess 8 ounces of cannabis over a 90-day period and cultivate four mature and 12 immature plants. [Patients may apply for a state-issued registry card](https://nmhealth.org/about/mcp/svcs/). Non-patients [possessing 1 ounce or less of marijuana are guilty of a petty misdemeanor](http://norml.org/laws/item/new-mexico-penalties-2), punishable by a fine of $50-$100 and/or up to 15 days of imprisonment.\r\n \r\n**New York:**                 [Cannabis is decriminalized](http://norml.org/laws/item/new-york-penalties-2). For a first offender, possession of up to 25 grams of marijuana is punishable by a fine of $100. [New York has a medical marijuana program](http://www.safeaccessnow.org/becoming_a_patient_in_new_york) for patients with a variety of qualifying conditions. Patients may possess a 30-day supply of cannabis-infused products including lotions, ointments, patches, chewable tablets and lozenges, as well as non-smokable forms of ground plant material. No edibles or smokable versions of cannabis are allowed—only vaporized liquids or oils. [Patients may apply for a state-issued registration card](https://www.health.ny.gov/regulations/medical_marijuana/patients/).  \r\n\r\n**North Carolina:**         [Cannabis is decriminalized](http://norml.org/laws/item/north-carolina-penalties-2). Possession of 0.5 ounces or less is a Class 3 misdemeanor and a maximum fine of $200. [North Carolina has a CBD-specific medical marijuana program](http://www.safeaccessnow.org/becoming_a_patient_in_north_carolina) for patients with debilitating epilepsy. Patients may use extracts containing less than nine-tenths of 1% THC and at least 5% CBD by weight.\r\n\r\n\r\n**North Dakota:**            [Medical marijuana was recently authorized](http://norml.org/legal/item/north-dakota-medical-marijuana)  for patients with qualifying medical conditions. It’s anticipated the program will roll out in the summer of 2018. Patients with a physician’s recommendation will be able legally obtain up to 3 ounces of cannabis provided by state-licensed dispensaries. The maximum amount of THC permitted in a 30-day period for concentrates and medical cannabinoid products is 2,000 milligrams. For non-patients, possession of 1 ounce or less of marijuana is a [Class B misdemeanor](http://norml.org/laws/item/north-dakota-penalties-2) punishable by maximum imprisonment of 30 days and/or a fine of $1,500.\r\n\r\n**Ohio:**                         [Cannabis is decriminalized](http://norml.org/laws/item/ohio-penalties-2) with possession of less than 100 grams a minor misdemeanor punishable by a $150 fine. Ohio’s [medical marijuana program](http://www.safeaccessnow.org/becoming_a_patient_in_ohio) is due to start in September of 2018. It will serve patients with a variety of qualifying medical conditions who will be able to [purchase cannabis from state-authorized dispensaries](https://www.medicalmarijuana.ohio.gov/faqs). \r\n\r\n**Oklahoma:**                [A CBD-specific medical marijuana program](http://www.safeaccessnow.org/becoming_a_patient_in_oklahoma) is available for pediatric patients with epilepsy and others with specific conditions including wasting diseases. Patients may use liquid CBD preparations containing no more than three-tenths of 1% THC. For non-patients, [possession of any amount of marijuana is a misdemeanor](http://norml.org/laws/item/oklahoma-penalties-2) with a sentence of up to one year and a fine of up to $1,000. \r\n\r\n**Oregon:**                     [Cannabis is legal for adult personal and medical use](http://www.safeaccessnow.org/becoming_a_patient_in_oregon) for patients with a variety of qualified medical conditions. Patients who enroll with the state’s [medical marijuana program](http://www.oregon.gov/oha/PH/DISEASESCONDITIONS/CHRONICDISEASE/MEDICALMARIJUANAPROGRAM/Pages/top20.aspx) are allowed 24 ounces of usable cannabis and six mature plants. Recreational adult users may [possess but not use up to 1 ounce of cannabis in public](http://norml.org/laws/item/oregon-penalties-2). They may also possess up to 8 ounces at home and grow up to four plants. \r\n \r\n**Pennsylvania:**           [Medical marijuana is newly authorized](http://www.safeaccessnow.org/becoming_a_patient_in_pennsylvania) for patients with qualifying medical conditions, and it’s anticipated that the program will roll out this year. Patients must sign up with the [state registry](https://www.pa.gov/guides/pennsylvania-medical-marijuana-program/) and may possess a 30-day supply of cannabis-infused pill, oils, topical ointments, tinctures or liquids. No smokable cannabis is allowed. For non-patients, [possession of 30 grams or less of flower or 8 grams or less of hashish is a misdemeanor](http://norml.org/laws/item/pennsylvania-penalties-2) punishable by 30 days in jail and/or a $500 fine.\r\n\r\n**Rhode Island:**           [Cannabis is decriminalized](http://norml.org/laws/item/rhode-island-penalties-2) with possession marijuana up to 1 ounce treated as a civil violation, punishable by a $150 fine, no jail time and no criminal record. [Rhode Island’s medical marijuana program](http://www.safeaccessnow.org/becoming_a_patient_in_rhode_island) authorizes patients with qualifying medical conditions and a [state-issued ID card](http://www.health.ri.gov/healthcare/medicalmarijuana/for/patients/) to possess 2.5 ounces of marijuana and to cultivate a specific number of plants based on your location. \r\n\r\n**South Carolina:**         A [CBD-specific medical marijuana program is available](http://www.safeaccessnow.org/becoming_a_patient_in_south_carolina) to patients with severe epilepsy who are enrolled in a clinical research program. Patients may use cannabis extracts that contain more than 15% CBD and no more than nine-tenths of 1% or less THC. For non-patients, [possession of 1 ounce or less is a misdemeanor](http://norml.org/laws/item/south-carolina-penalties-2) punishable by a maximum sentence of 30 days imprisonment and a fine of $100-$200.\r\n\r\n**South Dakota:**           Cannabis is illegal. [Possession of 2 ounces or less is a Class 1 misdemeanor](http://norml.org/laws/item/south-dakota-penalties-2) punishable by a maximum sentence of one-year imprisonment and a maximum fine of $2,000.\r\n\r\n**Tennessee:**               A [CBD-specific medical marijuana program is available](http://www.safeaccessnow.org/tennessee_medical_marijuana_laws_and_regulations) to patients with debilitating seizures. Patients may use cannabis oil containing no more than nine-tenths of 1% or less THC. For non-patients, [possession of a half-ounce of marijuana or less is a misdemeanor](http://norml.org/laws/item/tennessee-penalties-2) punishable by up to one year in jail and maximum fine of $2,500. A [bill was introduced in January of 2018](https://www.tennessean.com/story/news/politics/2018/01/18/republicans-introduce-bill-expand-medical-marijuana-tennessee/1044287001/) which if passed would expand Tennessee’s medical marijuana program. \r\n\r\n**Texas:**                       Cannabis is illegal. [Possession of 2 ounces or less of marijuana is a Class B misdemeanor](http://norml.org/laws/item/texas-penalties-2) punishable by up to 180 days imprisonment and a fine not to exceed $2,000. There’s currently disagreement in the state on whether low-THC “prescriptions” are legal.\r\n\r\n**Utah:**                         A [CBD-specific medical marijuana program is available](http://www.safeaccessnow.org/becoming_a_patient_in_utah) for patients with severe epilepsy. A “hemp registration card” is available from the Utah Department of Health. For non-patients, [possession of less than 1 ounce is a Class B misdemeanor](http://norml.org/laws/item/utah-penalties-2) punishable by a maximum sentence of six months imprisonment and a maximum fine of $1,000.\r\n\r\n**Vermont:**                   [Cannabis is legal for adult personal use and medical use](http://www.safeaccessnow.org/becoming_a_patient_in_vermont) for patients with a variety of qualifying medical conditions. Patients must [register with the state](http://medicalmarijuana.vermont.gov) and may possess no more than 2 ounces of usable marijuana, two mature marijuana plants, and seven immature marijuana plants. As of July 1, 2018, adult recreational [possession of up to 1 ounce will no longer be punishable by a civil penalty](http://norml.org/laws/item/vermont-penalties-2). The law also decriminalizes possession of 5 grams or less of hashish. \r\n\r\n\r\n**Virginia:**                     A [CBD-specific medical marijuana program is available](http://www.safeaccessnow.org/becoming_a_patient_in_virginia) to patients with debilitating epilepsy. Patients may possess and use cannabis oil that contains no more than 5% THC or 15% CBD. For non-patients, [possession of marijuana is a Class 1 misdemeanor] (http://norml.org/laws/item/virginia-penalties-2) punishable by no more than 30 days in jail and/or a fine of up to $500 for a first offense.\r\n\r\n**Washington:**              [Cannabis is legal for adult personal use and medical use](http://www.safeaccessnow.org/becoming_a_patient_in_washington) for patients with qualifying medical conditions. People who become [authorized patients](https://www.doh.wa.gov/Portals/1/Documents/Pubs/608022.pdf) may purchase tax-free compliant marijuana products, possess 48 ounces of marijuana-infused product in solid form, 3 ounces of useable marijuana, 216 ounces of marijuana-infused product in liquid form or 21 grams of concentrates. Additionally, patients may grow up to six plants for medical use. [Recreational adult users](http://norml.org/laws/item/washington-penalties-2) may possess, in private, up to 1 ounce of cannabis for personal use, as well as the possession of up to 16 ounces of marijuana-infused product in solid form and 72 ounces of marijuana-infused product in liquid form, and aren’t subject to criminal or civil penalty.\r\n\r\n**Washington, D.C.:**     Cannabis is legal for adult personal use and medical use for patients with qualifying medical conditions. Patients who [register with the district](https://doh.dc.gov/node/822562) may possess up to 2 ounces of cannabis. [Recreational adult users](http://norml.org/laws/item/district-of-columbia-penalties) 21 years of age or older may [possess up to 2 ounces of marijuana and cultivate no more than six plants in their primary residence without penalty](http://norml.org/laws/item/district-of-columbia-penalties). \r\n\r\n\r\n**West Virginia:**            [A medical marijuana program will become operational in 2019](https://www.mpp.org/states/west-virginia/west-virginia-medical-cannabis-act/) for patients with [qualifying medical conditions](http://dhhr.wv.gov/bph/Documents/MedicalCannabis/Patient%20and%20Caregiver%20Info%2004202017%20-%20rev.pdf). For non-patients, [possession of marijuana in any amount is a misdemeanor](http://norml.org/laws/item/west-virginia-penalties-2) punishable by not less than 90 days, nor more than six months imprisonment and not fined more than $1,000.\r\n\r\n**Wisconsin:**                A CBD-specific medical marijuana program is available for patients having any medical condition for which a physician prescribes CBD. Patients may possess CBD in a form without a psychoactive effect, but there are [few clear guidelines on how patients may obtain CBD](http://www.safeaccessnow.org/wisconsin_legal_information). For non-patients, [a first offense for possession of marijuana is a misdemeanor](http://norml.org/laws/item/wisconsin-penalties-2) punishable by a fine of up to $1,000 and/or imprisonment of up to six months.\r\n\r\n**Wyoming:**                  A [CBD-specific medical marijuana program is available](http://www.safeaccessnow.org/wyoming_legal_information) for patients with intractable epilepsy or seizure disorders. No maximum possession limit is currently imposed. For non-patients, [any person using or under the influence of marijuana is subject to a misdemeanor](http://norml.org/laws/item/wyoming-penalties-2) punishable by a maximum of six months imprisonment and/or a maximum fine of $750.\r\n\r\nPhoto credit: [Joey Csunyo](https://unsplash.com/@joey_csunyo)\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":1.3605442176870748,"src":"/static/259324f2ab356999a97390a2223f73a0/14b42/29a4f1d541740d173df06a04c451efe0.jpg","srcSet":"/static/259324f2ab356999a97390a2223f73a0/f836f/29a4f1d541740d173df06a04c451efe0.jpg 200w,\n/static/259324f2ab356999a97390a2223f73a0/2244e/29a4f1d541740d173df06a04c451efe0.jpg 400w,\n/static/259324f2ab356999a97390a2223f73a0/14b42/29a4f1d541740d173df06a04c451efe0.jpg 800w,\n/static/259324f2ab356999a97390a2223f73a0/47498/29a4f1d541740d173df06a04c451efe0.jpg 1200w,\n/static/259324f2ab356999a97390a2223f73a0/0e329/29a4f1d541740d173df06a04c451efe0.jpg 1600w,\n/static/259324f2ab356999a97390a2223f73a0/15f9c/29a4f1d541740d173df06a04c451efe0.jpg 3611w","srcWebp":"/static/259324f2ab356999a97390a2223f73a0/58556/29a4f1d541740d173df06a04c451efe0.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/259324f2ab356999a97390a2223f73a0/61e93/29a4f1d541740d173df06a04c451efe0.webp 200w,\n/static/259324f2ab356999a97390a2223f73a0/1f5c5/29a4f1d541740d173df06a04c451efe0.webp 400w,\n/static/259324f2ab356999a97390a2223f73a0/58556/29a4f1d541740d173df06a04c451efe0.webp 800w,\n/static/259324f2ab356999a97390a2223f73a0/99238/29a4f1d541740d173df06a04c451efe0.webp 1200w,\n/static/259324f2ab356999a97390a2223f73a0/7c22d/29a4f1d541740d173df06a04c451efe0.webp 1600w,\n/static/259324f2ab356999a97390a2223f73a0/328de/29a4f1d541740d173df06a04c451efe0.webp 3611w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2563-markdown","title":"Recreational Cannabis Brings Success & Challenges to CA","slug":"recreational-cannabis-brings-success-and-challenges-to-ca","content":"Now that the hoopla is subsiding, the positives and negatives of legalized adult-use cannabis in California are beginning to come into focus. \r\n\r\nWith only a smattering of counties prepared for legalization on Jan 1, more and more municipalities have come on board since New Year’s Day.\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### Counties Conducting Recreational Marijuana Sales\r\n\r\nAs of Feb 1, 18 of the state’s 58 counties have approved dispensaries for recreational cannabis consumers. They are:\r\n\r\n* Alameda\r\n* Contra Costa\r\n* Humboldt \r\n* Lake\r\n* Los Angeles\r\n* Mendocino\r\n* Monterey\r\n* Orange\r\n* Riverside\r\n* San Diego\r\n* San Francisco\r\n* Santa Clara\r\n* Santa Cruz\r\n* Shasta\r\n* Siskiyou\r\n* Sonoma\r\n* Stanislaus\r\n* Tulare\r\n\r\nUse this handy [interactive map](https://www.google.com/maps/d/viewer?mid=1aJKR8O-8BWOb9uR7p_2UmapNTL6n154B&ll=37.47274521254744%2C-121.62154322500004&z=5) to find a recreational dispensary near you. \r\n\r\nThe limited number of participating counties underscores how important it is to keep your medical marijuana recommendation current. Your physician’s recommendation will allow you to purchase cannabis in counties which for now may only have medical marijuana patient-only dispensaries, such as Napa County.\r\n\r\nRELATED: [WILL CALIFORNIA BE READY FOR RECREATIONAL MARIJUANA?](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a259069100a820006562eb6/will-california-be-ready-for-recreational-marijuana)\r\n\r\nDespite the somewhat confusing rollout, licensed dispensaries are reporting brisk sales up and down the state. Some reported a few first-day glitches with software, but as one shop owner said with a laugh, “We still know how to use a calculator and a pencil.”\r\n\r\n### The Price Is Not Right for Marijuana\r\n\r\nRecreational users in particular have been floored by the new taxes on cannabis products. For some consumers, [sticker shock](https://www.thecannabist.co/2018/01/30/california-cannabis-high-taxes-customers/97777/) has definitely affected the type and amount of cannabis products they purchase. In some cases, taxes exceeding 50% are added to the bill of recreational cannabis purchases. If you’re able to travel to different recreational-cannabis cities in two different counties, check their tax rates, as they vary from one municipality to the next. A little homework could put a few dollars back into your pocket. \r\n\r\n### Cannabis Demand & Supply? \r\n\r\nAt one Northern California dispensary, a manager was initially concerned that they’d have a surplus of cannabis flower. Now, after a banner month, he’s concerned his inventory won’t last through the spring. \r\n\r\nOnly a handful of farmers are state-certified, leaving some distributors worried about a [statewide marijuana shortage](http://www.thecannifornian.com/cannabis-news/california-news/california-legal-cannabis-market-will-test-supply-pipeline/). To make matters worse, the mountain of fees and new compliance guidelines are continuing to create enormous [challenges for small farmers](https://www.thecannabist.co/2018/01/29/california-pot-stockpiles-go-smoke-whats-next/97719/), who in the past formed the backbone for marijuana dispensaries and delivery services in California. \r\n\r\nWhat has become the world’s biggest cannabis industry is now grappling with complex and in some cases unrealistic guidelines, with [one lawsuit already filed by the California Growers Association](http://www.thecannifornian.com/cannabis-news/california-news/court-challenge-seeks-block-vast-california-cannabis-farms/). The suit aims to tip the balance away from “Big Cannabis” and back toward the small farmer. \r\n\r\nMeanwhile, even ancillary businesses like [The Mendocino Group](http://www.ukiahdailyjournal.com/article/NP/20180117/NEWS/180119908), a graphics house that provides marketing, packaging and design services to canna-businesses, is challenged to find a bank that will take their hard-earned, legal dollars. \r\n\r\n### Legalization Doesn’t Mean a Cannabis Free-For-All\r\n\r\nSome people felt that legalization would be a “golden ticket,” giving adults the freedom to consume cannabis any time, anywhere. This is definitely not the case. The best way to think about how and where to consume cannabis is to think about alcohol: There are times and places where alcohol use is never allowed—and public cannabis consumption is no different. \r\n\r\nThe California Highway Patrol is clear that [stoned driving is illegal](http://www.sacbee.com/news/state/california/california-weed/article195694294.html) and officers are being trained to look for the signs of “driving high.” It’s also illegal for passengers to smoke in their vehicle—and “open containers” of cannabis, along with all paraphernalia, should be stored in your trunk. \r\n\r\nHoping to light up during Beyoncé’s encore? Think again. Marijuana use will still be illegal at music festivals like [Coachella](http://ktla.com/2018/01/07/marijuana-use-will-still-be-illegal-at-coachella-2018-despite-recreational-legalization-in-california/), as well as at other private music venues. Nor is cannabis legal to use at any [University of California campus](https://edsource.org/2018/despite-legalization-california-colleges-stick-to-their-marijuana-bans/592270). Patients aren’t exempt from these guidelines, so in most situations, using common sense and conducting yourself as you did pre-legalization is your best bet when it comes to safe, public cannabis use.\r\n\r\n### Questions for Some Medical Marijuana Patients \r\n\r\n[Compassion-based medical cannabis programs have been hit hard by legalization](https://www.forbes.com/sites/marycarreon/2018/01/29/californias-new-cannabis-laws-push-out-compassionate-care-programs/#4b61792d25fd), For decades, a few selfless individuals have been providing cannabis to patients at little or no cost as an outgrowth of California’s Proposition 215—the Compassionate Use Act. \r\n\r\nNot to be confused with Prop 64, Prop 215 enabled nonprofit organizations to provide medical marijuana to patients with serious medical conditions. It’s still not clear if any of these organizations will be able to continue operations under Prop 64’s stringent guidelines. Providers are concerned about health outcomes for their patients, many of whom are dependent on low- or no-cost cannabis to address major, life-threatening conditions.\r\n\r\n### The View From a Marijuana Dispensary\r\n\r\nThough many dispensaries still have an inventory of higher-dose edibles available, these items are going quickly, according to dispensary operators. “Patients are coming in and getting as much of their favorite product as they can,” says Kevin Zimm, manager of MendoCann Dispensary in Hopland, CA. Medical marijuana patients are the only people allowed to purchase last year’s remaining edibles containing over 100 mg of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) per package. \r\n\r\nKevin has seen an unprecedented increase in new cannabis consumers. “They are mostly people my mom’s age—people who were afraid to walk into a dispensary and are now excited to do so.” He says there’s been a lot of “handholding” of new recruits to cannabis during the past month, and Kevin loves every minute of it. \r\n\r\n“For me, this is what I’ve been waiting for all my life. This is why I left my excellent job as a banker with a credit union. We’re truly helping people, expanding our reach and helping improve the lives of more and more people every day,” he concludes.\r\n\r\n### Things to Keep in Mind if You Consume Cannabis \r\n\r\nDon’t let your medical marijuana recommendation lapse.\r\n\r\n* Your recommendation gives you access to many more retail and medical cannabis outlets than recreational users are allowed into.\r\n\r\n* In conjunction with a Medical Marijuana Identification Card (available through your county), medical marijuana patients pay reduced taxes on dispensary purchases.\r\n\r\n* You’re still eligible to purchase a dispensary’s back stock of edibles containing more THC than the state’s new 100 mg-per-product limit, while those supplies last. This is a great option for high-THC medical cannabis users. \r\n\r\n* If you’re between 18 and 21 years of age, having a medical cannabis recommendation is still the only way to legally possess and consume marijuana products. \r\n\r\nPhoto credit: [natural.cannabis.company](https://www.instagram.com/natural.cannabis.company/)\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/png;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3605442176870748,"src":"/static/65421fdf53e1a146c2e3762de1ceeaa4/ee604/4b2d312f033e9fe488d2496014fd8de0.png","srcSet":"/static/65421fdf53e1a146c2e3762de1ceeaa4/69585/4b2d312f033e9fe488d2496014fd8de0.png 200w,\n/static/65421fdf53e1a146c2e3762de1ceeaa4/497c6/4b2d312f033e9fe488d2496014fd8de0.png 400w,\n/static/65421fdf53e1a146c2e3762de1ceeaa4/ee604/4b2d312f033e9fe488d2496014fd8de0.png 800w,\n/static/65421fdf53e1a146c2e3762de1ceeaa4/78858/4b2d312f033e9fe488d2496014fd8de0.png 1133w","srcWebp":"/static/65421fdf53e1a146c2e3762de1ceeaa4/58556/4b2d312f033e9fe488d2496014fd8de0.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/65421fdf53e1a146c2e3762de1ceeaa4/61e93/4b2d312f033e9fe488d2496014fd8de0.webp 200w,\n/static/65421fdf53e1a146c2e3762de1ceeaa4/1f5c5/4b2d312f033e9fe488d2496014fd8de0.webp 400w,\n/static/65421fdf53e1a146c2e3762de1ceeaa4/58556/4b2d312f033e9fe488d2496014fd8de0.webp 800w,\n/static/65421fdf53e1a146c2e3762de1ceeaa4/6a4f0/4b2d312f033e9fe488d2496014fd8de0.webp 1133w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2583-markdown","title":"NY Proposes Cannabis as a Solution to the Opioid Epidemic","slug":"ny-proposes-cannabis-as-a-solution-to-the-opioid-epidemic","content":"Fast on the heels of Governor Andrew Cuomo’s proposal to study the feasibility of legalizing recreational marijuana, state lawmakers introduced legislation to the Senate and Assembly to allow the use of medical marijuana to treat “opioid use disorder.” Assemblyman Daniel O’Donnell (D-Manhattan), who introduced the measure, got the bill approved by the Assembly Health Committee with a 23-1 vote last month.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n“We have an opioid crisis and people are dying, and this may be a path to keep people from dying and keep them from relapsing,” said O’Donnell to the [_New York Daily News_](http://www.nydailynews.com/news/politics/n-y-lawmakers-fight-opioid-crisis-medical-marijuana-article-1.3784700).\n\nO’Donnell along with other supporters of the bill point to research that shows access to medical marijuana helps reduce opioid dependency, addiction and death. Medical marijuana, in fact, appears to be an “exit drug” from the opioid epidemic, which kills nearly a hundred Americans daily.\n\nSenator Diane Savino (D-Staten Island), who sponsored the medical marijuana legalization bill that went on to become law in 2014, is backing this bill with the hopes of getting it approved by June—when legislative sessions come to a close.\n\n### NY Could Be the First State to Recognize Marijuana for Opioid Use Disorder\n\nIf the bill passes the Senate and Governor Cuomo then signs the bill into law, opioid use disorder would further expand the list of New York’s qualifying conditions, which includes cancer, epilepsy, chronic pain and most recently [post-traumatic stress disorder PTSD. It would also make New York the first state to recognize medical marijuana as a possible solution for opioid dependency and addiction. And it could serve as a catalyst for other states to follow suit—while flying in the face of anti-marijuana rhetoric put forward by Chris Christie, who chairs the President’s Commission on Combating Drug Addiction and the Opioid Crisis.\n\nChristie continues to ignore a growing body of evidence that finds cannabis to be a safer alternative to opioids when it comes to relieving chronic pain. And he refuses to acknowledge that there might be something to the fact that [opioid-related deaths have dropped in Colorado where recreational marijuana is legal](http://ajph.aphapublications.org/doi/abs/10.2105/AJPH.2017.304059?journalCode=ajph&).\n\nMeanwhile, public opinion has likely swayed Governor Cuomo, who once called cannabis a “gateway drug [that] leads to other drugs.” He’s since reconsidered his stance and is proposing a cost, benefit and risk analysis of legalizing marijuana for adult use.\n\nTime will tell if New York will take a page out of New Jersey’s book to move “full weed ahead” with recreational marijuana. In the meantime, getting opioid use disorder approved will be a good step towards further opening up the medical marijuana program, which currently includes 43,250 certified patients.\n\nPhoto credit: [Cindy Shebley](https://www.flickr.com/photos/cindyshebley/)\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-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":1.3605442176870748,"src":"/static/4bb0fa00e234515b957574dd00bc076f/14b42/765615c971a4d277f1882c3bf8b878ce.jpg","srcSet":"/static/4bb0fa00e234515b957574dd00bc076f/f836f/765615c971a4d277f1882c3bf8b878ce.jpg 200w,\n/static/4bb0fa00e234515b957574dd00bc076f/2244e/765615c971a4d277f1882c3bf8b878ce.jpg 400w,\n/static/4bb0fa00e234515b957574dd00bc076f/14b42/765615c971a4d277f1882c3bf8b878ce.jpg 800w,\n/static/4bb0fa00e234515b957574dd00bc076f/47498/765615c971a4d277f1882c3bf8b878ce.jpg 1200w,\n/static/4bb0fa00e234515b957574dd00bc076f/0e329/765615c971a4d277f1882c3bf8b878ce.jpg 1600w,\n/static/4bb0fa00e234515b957574dd00bc076f/0fb1f/765615c971a4d277f1882c3bf8b878ce.jpg 1862w","srcWebp":"/static/4bb0fa00e234515b957574dd00bc076f/58556/765615c971a4d277f1882c3bf8b878ce.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/4bb0fa00e234515b957574dd00bc076f/61e93/765615c971a4d277f1882c3bf8b878ce.webp 200w,\n/static/4bb0fa00e234515b957574dd00bc076f/1f5c5/765615c971a4d277f1882c3bf8b878ce.webp 400w,\n/static/4bb0fa00e234515b957574dd00bc076f/58556/765615c971a4d277f1882c3bf8b878ce.webp 800w,\n/static/4bb0fa00e234515b957574dd00bc076f/99238/765615c971a4d277f1882c3bf8b878ce.webp 1200w,\n/static/4bb0fa00e234515b957574dd00bc076f/7c22d/765615c971a4d277f1882c3bf8b878ce.webp 1600w,\n/static/4bb0fa00e234515b957574dd00bc076f/dc633/765615c971a4d277f1882c3bf8b878ce.webp 1862w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2580-markdown","title":"Cannabis Farmers Cope With Challenges After NorCal Fires","slug":"cannabis-farmers-cope-with-challenges-after-norcal-fires","content":"Though the smoke has long cleared, the fallout from the October 2017 Northern California wildfires continues to affect the lives of cannabis farmers—and the future of the marijuana industry as a whole.\r\n\r\nThe timing of the fires couldn’t have been worse. October is generally the peak of outdoor harvest season, and many marijuana growers were just a few days or weeks away from drying, curing and selling their crop.\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### Fires Added More Confusion Right Before Cannabis Legalization\r\n\r\nThe fires broke out towards the end of a confusing year, as California braced to become a regulated, legal recreational marijuana state. Cannabis growers attempting to enter the legal system had already begged, borrowed and sold everything they could to pay tens—and in some cases hundreds of thousands—of dollars to become part of the regulated industry. No farmer can afford a bad season, and for marijuana farmers in Sonoma, Napa and Mendocino Counties, the fires added incalculable complications to an already tenuous future. \r\n\r\nNearly [three dozen farms were completely destroyed by the fire](http://capitolweekly.net/norcal-fires-weed-goes-smoke/), according to the California Growers Association. Dan D’Ancona, president of Ukiah-based California Grow Services estimated in late October that upwards of 2,000 cannabis-related jobs were lost due to the fires, along with $40 million in product.  \r\n\r\nIn rural Redwood Valley, in the heart of Mendocino County, the conflagration roared through prime cannabis gardens. Following the blaze, an eerie silence permeated the neighborhood, where burned-out fences revealed countless family-sized farms. Fully flowered plants drooped. Gardens were untended, and sticky buds were covered in a dangerous concoction of powdery ash and hidden, unknown contaminants. \r\n\r\n### Fires Underscore Gaps in Cannabis Farmer Protections\r\n\r\nUnlike a Florida citrus farmer, who can recoup losses due to sub-freezing temperatures, [crop insurance isn’t available to cannabis farmers](http://www.latimes.com/local/california/la-me-fire-weed-20171028-story.html).\r\n\r\nSome marijuana growers lucky enough to have property insurance felt discriminated against by their carrier, according to Chiah Rodriques, CEO of Mendocino Generations, a consortium of 35 outdoor, artisanal cannabis farmers. “Two farmers told me their insurer would only cover their residences—not their gardens. That’s better than nothing, but now those farmers have to rebuild their entire infrastructure from scratch—people who were permitted farmers, playing by the rules,” Chiah noted, adding that many more cannabis cultivators are thinking about purchasing comprehensive homeowner’s insurance in the future.\r\n\r\nRELATED: [MARIJUANA GROWERS SUFFER HUGE LOSSES IN CALIFORNIA FIRES](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/59dfd3e2eb4cfa003297ccc0/marijuana-growers-suffer-huge-losses-in-california-fires)\r\n\r\n### What Did the Fires Leave Behind in Cannabis? \r\n\r\nFarmers faced the “rock and hard place” choice: trying to salvage a product that could have unknown health implications, or walking away from their compromised crop and the income it could produce. To determine if they could salvage their crop, cannabis farmers asked testing labs to forge into unknown territory. Some labs already have protocols in place to test for solvents such as benzene and toluene. However, dioxins and fire-retardant chemicals aren’t on any required cannabis testing list. \r\n\r\n“Some farmers converted their flowers into extract and pressed rosins that didn’t carry the smoke smell into the product,” says Chiah. Others tried using ozone machines, but found that only about half the smoky odor was removed. “The most innovative farmers have been able to recoup some funds. Technology can do amazing things, but it’s an expensive process.” \r\n\r\n“Luckily, we haven’t received any questionable flowers at all since the fires,” notes Kevin Zimm, manager of the MendoCann dispensary located in the town of Hopland, in Mendocino County. However, says Kevin, he’s been told that a certain amount of questionable product was moved to the black market. At least one company, Moxie Meds, lost its suppliers due to the fires and were forced to cease operations altogether. “All their sources were burned out. We sold the last of their inventory two weeks ago,” adds Kevin.\r\n\r\nThe most important takeaway for patients is to know your sources, ask for test results on your product and try to get clear information about when the product was tested—as flowers or as an end-product such as an edible or a concentrate.\r\n\r\n### A Caring Cannabis Community\r\n\r\nOn the bright side, [the cannabis community came together to support farmers in need](https://www.entrepreneur.com/article/303389), including a donation of over $75,000 to fire victims raised at the 2017 Emerald Cup, celebrated at the Sonoma County Fairgrounds about two months after the fires.\r\n\r\n“We sponsored a GoFundMe campaign that raised $12,000 for three of our farmers who had significant losses,” says Chiah. Another music event sponsored by Mendocino Generations raised $5,000 for two other farmers in the greater community—a single father and a single mother with three children. \r\n\r\nCannaCraft, probably the highest-profile business affected by the fires, looked beyond devastating losses of over $1 million in marijuana and several structures. The business donated the use of a portion of its Sonoma County facility to the American Red Cross, which the organization used as a headquarters for 200 staffers during the post-fire service delivery period. \r\n\r\n### Post-Fire Questions to Ask About Your Marijuana\r\n\r\nFortunately, legalization requires enhanced testing and tracking of your cannabis, making the likelihood of consuming fire-affected product very small. Here are a few questions to consider:\r\n\r\n* Is any part of the product I’m purchasing (concentrate, vape pen, flower, etc.) sourced from Mendocino, Sonoma or Napa counties? Can your supplier determine if it came from fire-affected areas?\r\n\r\n* Do the test results on my product reflect this item or the flowers it was made from? \r\n\r\nFinally, do you know someone who purchases from the black market? Now, more than ever, encourage black market consumers to play it safe by purchasing lab-tested, clean cannabis. \r\n\r\nPhoto credit: [Brett Levin](https://www.flickr.com/photos/scubabrett22/)\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":1.3605442176870748,"src":"/static/edf0b7f7c6199dc2f06a1987d5bd4858/14b42/d54a82bba7fed60cffca8e01b23e7600.jpg","srcSet":"/static/edf0b7f7c6199dc2f06a1987d5bd4858/f836f/d54a82bba7fed60cffca8e01b23e7600.jpg 200w,\n/static/edf0b7f7c6199dc2f06a1987d5bd4858/2244e/d54a82bba7fed60cffca8e01b23e7600.jpg 400w,\n/static/edf0b7f7c6199dc2f06a1987d5bd4858/14b42/d54a82bba7fed60cffca8e01b23e7600.jpg 800w,\n/static/edf0b7f7c6199dc2f06a1987d5bd4858/47498/d54a82bba7fed60cffca8e01b23e7600.jpg 1200w,\n/static/edf0b7f7c6199dc2f06a1987d5bd4858/0e329/d54a82bba7fed60cffca8e01b23e7600.jpg 1600w,\n/static/edf0b7f7c6199dc2f06a1987d5bd4858/c1f90/d54a82bba7fed60cffca8e01b23e7600.jpg 3581w","srcWebp":"/static/edf0b7f7c6199dc2f06a1987d5bd4858/58556/d54a82bba7fed60cffca8e01b23e7600.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/edf0b7f7c6199dc2f06a1987d5bd4858/61e93/d54a82bba7fed60cffca8e01b23e7600.webp 200w,\n/static/edf0b7f7c6199dc2f06a1987d5bd4858/1f5c5/d54a82bba7fed60cffca8e01b23e7600.webp 400w,\n/static/edf0b7f7c6199dc2f06a1987d5bd4858/58556/d54a82bba7fed60cffca8e01b23e7600.webp 800w,\n/static/edf0b7f7c6199dc2f06a1987d5bd4858/99238/d54a82bba7fed60cffca8e01b23e7600.webp 1200w,\n/static/edf0b7f7c6199dc2f06a1987d5bd4858/7c22d/d54a82bba7fed60cffca8e01b23e7600.webp 1600w,\n/static/edf0b7f7c6199dc2f06a1987d5bd4858/70960/d54a82bba7fed60cffca8e01b23e7600.webp 3581w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2568-markdown","title":"Feeling the Burn With MoonMan's Mistress","slug":"feeling-the-burn-with-moonmans-mistress","content":"Last Sunday, 30 pro-cannabis fitness enthusiasts, including a couple of HelloMD staffers, joined [Moonman's Mistress](https://www.hellomd.com/biz/56f3650f7bedba000c000019/moonmans-mistress/our-story)—maker of healthy, whole-food marijuana edibles—for its second Burn and Baked boot camp-style event. Held at [Hit Fit SF](http://hitfitsf.com/mission/) in San Francisco's Mission district, the nearly hour-long, high-intensity workout exemplified the company's focus on fitness, nutrition and education.\r\n\r\nMoonman's Mistress co-founder Jamel Ramiro, who's also a personal trainer, started the session off by explaining Moonman's goal to destigmatize cannabis consumption and dispel the myth of the couch-potato stoner with these kinds of events, which integrate cannabis into a healthy, active lifestyle. \"Cannabis can help you with your workouts, with inflammation, or if you're just looking for a better quality of life,\" Jamel said. \"It can give you freedom so you can live better and move better.\"\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\nFollowing his brief informational-cum-inspirational introduction, Jamel then led the group through a short warmup, followed by a series of exercises that included burpees, jumping jacks, lunges, squats and more. Folks were clearly having a good time—there were smiles all around with plenty of whooping and hollering heard over the high-energy music.\r\n\r\n![HelloMD at Burn and Baked](https://hellomd-development.s3.amazonaws.com/articles-5a7493daf24d1300077ccb2a-5b57374f-c1c2-4992-a83d-d86947001757/original.jpg)\r\n\r\nBut don't take my word for it. Here's what attendees—which included weekend warriors, firefighters, personal trainers and folks living with Parkinson's disease—had to say about the Moonman's Mistress event, its mission, and consuming cannabis for sports performance and recovery:\r\n\r\n**Jessica H.:**\r\n\"[Burn and Baked] was a great workout. Super tough and really fun. … I think the Moonman mentality is really cool because there's [this idea of the] lazy stoner, but a lot of people like to smoke or use edibles or CBD to relieve anxiety or a whole host of other things _and_ they can be active. It doesn't necessarily have to be separate. It's cool that there are companies promoting that.\"\r\n\r\n**Keith Lucitt:**\r\n\"The social theory is that you're a lazy stoner. Trying cannabis in my 20s, I was like, well, I don't have that same reaction. I like to get up and do stuff. Sativa fires me up. I'm a certified personal trainer [and] an outdoor enthusiast. I use cannabis medicinally, for recovery and for fuel. With the use of the cannabis plant, I've had tremendous anti-inflammatory benefits. \r\n\r\nI believe in fueling the body with quality ingredients from Mother Nature. One of the biggest things that I really enjoy is the quality of ingredients that goes into the Moonman's Mistress products. In their Solar Flare cookies, they put in cinnamon to help regulate your blood pressure, pumpkin seeds for your skin and hair—they're a great way to take care of the body, and you feel better after you eat them.\"\r\n\r\nRELATED: [HEAL YOUR BODY WITH FOOD & CANNABIS](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/57d303eda18c34000b895b56/heal-your-body-with-food-and-cannabis)\r\n\r\n**Carrie Krane:**\r\n\"I was smiling for the entirety of the intense workout.  Liz [Rudner] and Jamel of MoonMan's Mistress live their mission to educate on the importance of fitness and nutrition, incorporating cannabis into _healthy_ foods. I loved the CBD edible after my workout. It filled me up with good fats and proteins, and I'm guessing I won't be as sore tomorrow.\"\r\n\r\n![Cannabis as part of a healthy lifestyle](https://hellomd-development.s3.amazonaws.com/articles-5a7493daf24d1300077ccb2a-ef2d96d9-4b38-43b9-8c5d-ea0008bd2a2a/original.jpg)\r\n\r\n**Kevin Krejci:**\r\n\"I loved it. I went to the last Burn and Baked event. It was such a great workout; I ate a Moonman's Mistress CBD cookie afterwards and went to work and had one of my most productive days. And I slept great that night. \r\n\r\nI've always been one to try different things without jumping off a bridge. Even before my Parkinson's disease diagnosis, I've always looked for ways to track [my vitals] better. I just feel like—just try it and see what happens. So, I'm kind of experimenting still. I just find in general that [after eating a Moonman's Mistress CBD cookie], I relax a lot better in the evening, sleep better.\"\r\n\r\n**Kevin Kwok:**\r\n\"A few years ago, there was really nothing for Parkinson's [disease]. I think Kevin [Krejci] and I represent a group of folks who say, we're going to fight back. I feel great 10 years into Parkinson's. You exercise and you come back rejuvenated, so it feeds on itself. It all stems from the ability to get up and move. \r\n\r\nFor us, exercise is medicine. The ability to move, to do high-intensity workouts. … One of the things with Parkinson's, it's not just a movement disorder; it's also a psychological disorder. It comes with fatigue, apathy, depression. And you just have to bust out of that. For me, the ability to sleep well and removing the apathy so you can show up and then move with freedom, this is all part of our daily medication. And so, something [like Moonman's Mistress] that helps us get back out here and move is sacred.\"\r\n\r\nRELATED: [6 STRENGTHENING MOVES FOR PARKINSON'S DISEASE PATIENTS](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a5f84c48425e40008273a2a/6-strengthening-moves-for-parkinsons-disease-patients)\r\n\r\n**Hank Frost:**\r\n\"As an athlete, professional boxer and personal trainer, my body goes through a lot of stress, so I've got to get that recovery. Recovery is key. I was kinda iffy about [cannabis], but I tried the [Moonman's Mistress CBD] product and felt a difference. I use CBD instead of taking ibuprofen or aspirin. It really helps with the pain and inflammation, and also sleep too. I love my sleep. That's how your body repairs and recharges. And then you're good for the next day.\"\r\n\r\n![Burn and baked goody bag](https://hellomd-development.s3.amazonaws.com/articles-5a7493daf24d1300077ccb2a-2bfab4e1-bbc4-442e-84a7-841db2083d76/original.jpg)\r\n\r\nIn the spirit of helping attendees repair and recharge post-workout, Moonman's Mistress handed out goody bags containing its CBD star cluster superfood cookies; superfood trail-mix cookies from [BellyWell Kitchen](http://bellywellkitchen.com/)—Liz and Jamel's non-cannabis, paleo baking company; Loki CBD pain salve and Dirt Ninja CBD capsules.\r\n\r\nJamel, who hopes to run a few more Burn and Baked events this year with the next one targeted for spring in L.A., says that Moonman's Mistress is all about health and wellness: \"We live it. We breathe it. This is our lifestyle. … We continue to advocate for patients and for responsible [cannabis] consumers looking for health benefits.\"\r\n\r\nMain photo credit: Mike Rosati\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":1.3605442176870748,"src":"/static/f6a623727be358ae16efbb65cb6d77ae/14b42/1f341839dbd74d3a93e139cdfaa5666b.jpg","srcSet":"/static/f6a623727be358ae16efbb65cb6d77ae/f836f/1f341839dbd74d3a93e139cdfaa5666b.jpg 200w,\n/static/f6a623727be358ae16efbb65cb6d77ae/2244e/1f341839dbd74d3a93e139cdfaa5666b.jpg 400w,\n/static/f6a623727be358ae16efbb65cb6d77ae/14b42/1f341839dbd74d3a93e139cdfaa5666b.jpg 800w,\n/static/f6a623727be358ae16efbb65cb6d77ae/633a0/1f341839dbd74d3a93e139cdfaa5666b.jpg 913w","srcWebp":"/static/f6a623727be358ae16efbb65cb6d77ae/58556/1f341839dbd74d3a93e139cdfaa5666b.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/f6a623727be358ae16efbb65cb6d77ae/61e93/1f341839dbd74d3a93e139cdfaa5666b.webp 200w,\n/static/f6a623727be358ae16efbb65cb6d77ae/1f5c5/1f341839dbd74d3a93e139cdfaa5666b.webp 400w,\n/static/f6a623727be358ae16efbb65cb6d77ae/58556/1f341839dbd74d3a93e139cdfaa5666b.webp 800w,\n/static/f6a623727be358ae16efbb65cb6d77ae/fe727/1f341839dbd74d3a93e139cdfaa5666b.webp 913w","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,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAPABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAGAAAAgMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQDBQb/xAAVAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAf/aAAwDAQACEAMQAAABz7rZFOSlf//EABwQAAEDBQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIAAxIBBBMUIv/aAAgBAQABBQJQDWTNrSGDlwYn/8QAFBEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEP/aAAgBAwEBPwE//8QAFBEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEP/aAAgBAgEBPwE//8QAHhAAAgIABwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAECERASEzIzQaH/2gAIAQEABj8CMy33hLVVPo5I+jR//8QAGhABAAMAAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQARIRAxQf/aAAgBAQABPyGW6Hs3hipVsY0oAXmRZqKek//aAAwDAQACAAMAAAAQrw//xAAWEQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABEDH/2gAIAQMBAT8QENn/xAAXEQEAAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABEBEx/9oACAECAQE/EG3I/8QAHBABAQACAgMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAREAITFBUWFx/9oACAEBAAE/EArDE1AxFHPE+bxEZjtBF2L2h4wioo0qkvXvGThmyOf/2Q==","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_2509-markdown","title":"Recreational Marijuana Is Legal in California—Did It All Go as Planned? ","slug":"recreational-marijuana-is-legal-in-californiadid-it-all-go-as-planned","content":"History was made on Jan. 1, when California became the sixth state to legalize recreational cannabis.\r\n\r\nThough Proposition 64 allowed cities to begin adult-use recreational marijuana sales on New Year’s Day, most municipalities weren’t ready. About [60 cannabis retailers commenced recreational sales on time](http://www.greenstate.com/explained/where-buy-legal-marijuana-california/), with enthusiastic adults lining up to support cannabis legalization with their wallets.\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### State Issues Recreational Sales Licenses to Some, But Not All Canna-Businesses\r\n\r\nBy Dec. 31, 404 temporary business licenses had been issued by California’s Bureau of Cannabis Control. They included 94 medical-use and 140 adult-use retail licenses, 21 licenses granted to delivery companies and 12 to testing labs. \r\n\r\nAnother 140 licenses were awarded to microbusinesses, distribution and transport services, with the state anticipating many more to be issued in the near future. \r\n\r\n### Legal Adult-Use Marijuana Updates by Region\r\n\r\n**Southern California **\r\n\r\nThe City of Angels wasn’t so kind to cannabis consumers, with [recreational sales limited to shops in the Santa Ana area](http://abc7.com/business/santa-ana-begins-selling-recreational-pot-on-1st-day-its-legal/2849325/). “We approved what I think is a model ordinance that's going to be used in other communities in the future, and we're pretty excited about it,\" Santa Ana City Councilman Jose Solorio told ABC News. Another three Hollywood-area dispensaries were scheduled to begin sales on Jan. 2. \r\n\r\nLos Angeles area residents should see more recreational storefronts opening soon as the city begins issuing local permits this month. But before they can begin recreational sales, those businesses must also receive state-issued adult retail licenses, and that’s a waiting game.\r\n\r\n[In San Diego, over a dozen cannabis retailers greeted hundreds of customers](http://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/news/marijuana/sd-me-marijuana-firstday-20171231-story.html), grateful the city took a chance and welcomed cannabis businesses and the resulting revenue they’ll bring to their community.  \r\n\r\nAre you in Southern California and worried about receiving your medicine? Medical marijuana patients in the area should be able to [continue accessing medicine legally at their local dispensary without interruption](https://www.thecannifornian.com/cannabis-business/shops-begin-selling-legal-marijuana-california/).\r\n\r\nRELATED: [WHY YOU’LL STILL NEED A MEDICAL RECOMMENDATION AFTER JAN. 1]( https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a302030100a820006562ebf/why-youll-still-need-a-medical-recommendation-after-jan-1)\r\n\r\n**Central California/Bay Area **\r\n\r\nNew Year’s Day brought out cannabis enthusiasts to a limited number of cities in the Bay Area. The city of [San Francisco anticipates rolling out recreational sales by Jan. 6](http://www.sfexaminer.com/legal-cannabis-sales-begin-monday-california-not-sf/). But across the Bay in Oakland and to the south in Santa Cruz, those cities were ready for legalization.\r\n\r\nCannabis activists and industry professionals Mikki Norris and her husband Chris Conrad took the symbolic step as the first recreational customers at California’s longest-running dispensary, Berkeley Patients Group.\r\n\r\n“I feel like it’s a huge accomplishment,” said Chris. “Marijuana should never have been illegal in the first place, so to have gotten to this moment feels like a huge advance.” Chris, considered to be the foremost cannabis expert witnesses in the country, was a strong supporter of Proposition 64. Also on hand for the opening were State Senator Nancy Skinner and Berkeley Mayor Jesse Arreguín, who called legalization “a long time coming.”\r\n\r\nAt KindPeople’s in Santa Cruz, Craig Reinarman, a UC Santa Cruz professor emeritus of sociology and legal studies, made the first recreational sale.\r\n“Cannabis prohibition was conceived in fraud, spread by racist fears full of misinformation and myths. And now the law is finally catching up with the culture and people,” said Craig, 69, to hundreds of people gathered at the dispensary.\r\n\r\nIn Oakland at Harborside, arguably the largest and most recognized dispensary in the country, the atmosphere was celebratory.“I recognize a lot of my neighbors in line making the purchase legally,” smiled Oakland City Councilmember Noel Gallo.\r\n\r\n**Emerald Triangle** \r\n\r\nIn the heart of the Emerald Triangle, only a handful of dispensaries were open for recreational sales. [Four dispensaries served customers in Mendocino County](http://www.ukiahdailyjournal.com/general-news/20180102/new-year-2018-starting-on-a-high-note). Visitors to Kure Wellness in Ukiah were treated to breakfast, t-shirts and calendars. \r\n\r\nMendocino County’s first recreational sales customer, Jeremy Lopreski, awakened at 4:30 a.m. to make sure he was the first person in line at Kure Wellness.\r\n\r\n“Even though it’s great we’re recreational, Prop 64 lowered the dosages on edibles, which is what I depend on for pain issues,” said Jeremy, who has severe spinal stenosis. Like many patients, he’s stocking up on Kure’s remaining inventory of higher-dosage edibles. Once they’re gone, new regulations limit edibles to a maximum tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content of 100 milligrams.\r\n\r\nMeanwhile, staff at Revolution Emporium are still celebrating their latest win. Their award-winning candy company, Higher Confections, placed second in the edibles category at the 2017 Emerald Cup. \r\n\r\n“If Mendocino County makes a concerted effort, we’ll be the new Napa Valley. If we can grow and provide craft cannabis, people will come. We don’t have long lines like the Bay Area,” says Revolution Emporium partner Ian Hesz.\r\n\r\n“We’re not just a dispensary. We’re a destination,” said Kure Wellness COO Kyle Greenhalgh, who adds they’re formulating “wine and weed” tours, working in concert with local businesses.\r\n\r\n### Here’s Why You Should Still Keep a Valid Medical Marijuana Card\r\n\r\nEven though recreational cannabis is now legal, there are many reasons to keep your medical marijuana recommendation. Here are a few:\r\n\r\n* If you live in [Fresno, Bakersfield or Riverside, all recreational marijuana sales are prohibited](https://www.rollingstone.com/culture/news/pot-legalized-in-california-on-new-years-day-w514848). Only medical marijuana patients will have access to legal cannabis in these areas. \r\n\r\n* Many municipalities didn’t meet the Jan. 1 deadline for recreational cannabis sales. They say they’ll be rolling out recreational sales soon, but in some places it’s hard to tell when that will actually be. Until then, many dispensaries are continuing to serve medical marijuana patients only. \r\n\r\n* [Marijuana edibles and tincture dosages have changed under Proposition 64](http://www.greenstate.com/explained/ten-highlights-and-lowlights-from-californias-new-marijuana-rules/). Only medical marijuana patients are allowed to purchase a dispensary’s remaining 2017 edibles stock while it lasts. This is especially important if you depend on a high-potency edible to treat a health condition. \r\n\r\n* Proposition 64 only allows for adults 21 and over to purchase recreational marijuana, but you can obtain a medical marijuana card if you’re 18.\r\n\r\n* With a medical marijuana card, you’re able to consult with a doctor who’s familiar with the plant and how it interacts in the body. A budtender at your local dispensary may be knowledgeable about marijuana, but they may not know anything about your particular medical condition. They could give you some sound advice, but they don’t have any medical training. \r\n\r\n* Because of new taxes that are a part of Proposition 64, medical cannabis costs less than recreational marijuana. You can also apply for a Medical Marijuana Identification Card (MMIC) through the state, which will further lower cost—but only if you have a medical marijuana recommendation. \r\n\r\nPhoto credit: [KindPeoples Collective](http://www.kindpeoples.org/)\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":1.3605442176870748,"src":"/static/959289296cf898dc230e2ffc7d866816/14b42/91ab2b28988cc4bff59cf5fbe364bb93.jpg","srcSet":"/static/959289296cf898dc230e2ffc7d866816/f836f/91ab2b28988cc4bff59cf5fbe364bb93.jpg 200w,\n/static/959289296cf898dc230e2ffc7d866816/2244e/91ab2b28988cc4bff59cf5fbe364bb93.jpg 400w,\n/static/959289296cf898dc230e2ffc7d866816/14b42/91ab2b28988cc4bff59cf5fbe364bb93.jpg 800w,\n/static/959289296cf898dc230e2ffc7d866816/eae30/91ab2b28988cc4bff59cf5fbe364bb93.jpg 990w","srcWebp":"/static/959289296cf898dc230e2ffc7d866816/58556/91ab2b28988cc4bff59cf5fbe364bb93.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/959289296cf898dc230e2ffc7d866816/61e93/91ab2b28988cc4bff59cf5fbe364bb93.webp 200w,\n/static/959289296cf898dc230e2ffc7d866816/1f5c5/91ab2b28988cc4bff59cf5fbe364bb93.webp 400w,\n/static/959289296cf898dc230e2ffc7d866816/58556/91ab2b28988cc4bff59cf5fbe364bb93.webp 800w,\n/static/959289296cf898dc230e2ffc7d866816/8b5b8/91ab2b28988cc4bff59cf5fbe364bb93.webp 990w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2523-markdown","title":"New York Allows Cannabis Topicals, Edibles & Ground Flower ","slug":"new-york-allows-cannabis-topicals-edibles-and-ground-flower","content":"Earlier this year, the [New York Health Department announced plans to improve the state’s medical marijuana program](https://www.health.ny.gov/press/releases/2017/2017-12-08_new_medical_marijuana_regulations.htm). The new regulations, which went into effect Dec. 27, 2017, include an expanded list of approved product types that now makes certain topicals and edibles along with non-smokable ground plant material available to medical cannabis patients.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### Medical Marijuana Patients Can Now Choose From a Variety of Consumption Methods\n\nNewly approved cannabis topicals include ointments and lotions. This is great news for patients who are in need of localized relief from pain—whether due to general soreness, inflammation or stiff joints. Transdermal patches—medicated adhesive patches that are placed on the skin and release small amounts of cannabis into the bloodstream over a longer period of time—are also on the approved list.\n\nMeanwhile, allowed marijuana edibles comprise chewable and effervescent tablets and lozenges. A familiar form of medicinal ingestion for many, tablets and lozenges are ideal for folks requiring longer-lasting relief stretching upwards of six to eight hours.\n\nFor the DIY patient, ground marijuana flower that’s now legal for purchase can be made into a butter or oil used to cook with at home. Previously, the list of approved forms of administration had been limited to vaporizers, capsules, oils, tinctures and sprays.\n\n### Non-Certified Folks Can Walk Into Medical Marijuana Dispensaries\n\nThe new regulations have also relaxed restrictions around allowing only certified individuals to enter a medical marijuana dispensary. Now, prospective patients and practitioners can walk into one of the 20 registered organizations (ROs) in New York to get information about the medical marijuana program and the cannabis products on offer there. Designated caregivers can also go in with patients to any RO.\n\n### Health Practitioners Can Get Certified More Easily\n\nThe New York Health Department has also made it easier for doctors and nurse practitioners to get certified—cutting the four-hour medical marijuana education course they’re required to take in half. With hope, this will translate into a larger pool of certified health practitioners who can then in turn certify qualifying patients—who now number more than 38,000—for the medical marijuana program.\n\nPhoto credit: [Frank Köhntopp](https://unsplash.com/@koehntopp)\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-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":1.3605442176870748,"src":"/static/3521752df0ceab7fae04919f1205e97a/14b42/fe34dd62c52b770822bfecc112ed07c3.jpg","srcSet":"/static/3521752df0ceab7fae04919f1205e97a/f836f/fe34dd62c52b770822bfecc112ed07c3.jpg 200w,\n/static/3521752df0ceab7fae04919f1205e97a/2244e/fe34dd62c52b770822bfecc112ed07c3.jpg 400w,\n/static/3521752df0ceab7fae04919f1205e97a/14b42/fe34dd62c52b770822bfecc112ed07c3.jpg 800w,\n/static/3521752df0ceab7fae04919f1205e97a/47498/fe34dd62c52b770822bfecc112ed07c3.jpg 1200w,\n/static/3521752df0ceab7fae04919f1205e97a/0e329/fe34dd62c52b770822bfecc112ed07c3.jpg 1600w,\n/static/3521752df0ceab7fae04919f1205e97a/863bf/fe34dd62c52b770822bfecc112ed07c3.jpg 3605w","srcWebp":"/static/3521752df0ceab7fae04919f1205e97a/58556/fe34dd62c52b770822bfecc112ed07c3.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/3521752df0ceab7fae04919f1205e97a/61e93/fe34dd62c52b770822bfecc112ed07c3.webp 200w,\n/static/3521752df0ceab7fae04919f1205e97a/1f5c5/fe34dd62c52b770822bfecc112ed07c3.webp 400w,\n/static/3521752df0ceab7fae04919f1205e97a/58556/fe34dd62c52b770822bfecc112ed07c3.webp 800w,\n/static/3521752df0ceab7fae04919f1205e97a/99238/fe34dd62c52b770822bfecc112ed07c3.webp 1200w,\n/static/3521752df0ceab7fae04919f1205e97a/7c22d/fe34dd62c52b770822bfecc112ed07c3.webp 1600w,\n/static/3521752df0ceab7fae04919f1205e97a/4a11b/fe34dd62c52b770822bfecc112ed07c3.webp 3605w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2501-markdown","title":"Recreational Marijuana Is Going Legal Soon—What’s the Latest? ","slug":"recreational-marijuana-is-going-legal-soonwhats-the-latest","content":"In just a few days, California becomes the next state to legalize recreational cannabis. Big changes are afoot. Are you ready? Here are some pointers on how to navigate the 2018 cannabis landscape. \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n\n### Will My Dispensary Be Open on January 1? \n\nOn Dec. 14, California’s Bureau of Cannabis Control (BCC) distributed its first temporary commercial cannabis licenses to several dozen retailers, distributors, microbusinesses and laboratories, with a promise of more licenses to be issued daily. Licensed dispensaries can provide recreational cannabis to adults 21 years of age and older with valid identification beginning Jan. 1, 2018. \n\nThe harsh reality is that [most cities aren’t ready for legalization](http://www.greenstate.com/explained/when-can-i-buy-legal-weed-in-california/). Many counties are still fleshing out their regulations and want all rules in place before permitting recreational sales. Because of this, chances are high that your dispensary will be open to medical marijuana patients but may not be ready to serve recreational users. \n\nRELATED: [WILL CALIFORNIA BE READY FOR RECREATIONAL MARIJUANA?](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a259069100a820006562eb6/will-california-be-ready-for-recreational-marijuana)\n\n### My Dispensary’s Been in Business for Years. Why Does It Need a State License? \n\nStarting in January, all canna-businesses including dispensaries will be required to comply with complex regulations addressing how medicine is grown, produced, tested, transported and packaged. These are important considerations for everyone, but especially for medical marijuana patients who depend on clean, tested medicine to maintain optimum health. Lawmakers hope a regulated cannabis industry will improve the quality, consistency and safety of cannabis products.  \n\n### How Do I Know if My Dispensary Is Licensed? \n\nThe BCC is posting a regularly updated [list of licensed marijuana businesses](https://aca5.accela.com/bcc/Cap/CapHome.aspx?module=Licenses&ShowMyPermitList=N). You can search by street name and city, or to view all licenses, try searching dates between Dec. 15, 2017 and Jan. 2, 2018.\n\nCheck the [cannabis laws in your city](http://projects.sfchronicle.com/2017/embed-pot-lookup/) to keep abreast with what’s happening in your neighborhood. Be patient as your dispensary adjusts to—as a means of complying with—the many new rules that are going into effect as of Jan. 1.\n\n### Why Remain a Medical Marijuana Patient When Recreational Cannabis Becomes Legal? \n\nFor over 20 years, [Proposition 215 has allowed medical marijuana patients to purchase and possess as much cannabis as you need](http://www.canorml.org/news/what_will_be_legal_and_what_wont_after_Prop_64) for your medical use. Those statutes don’t change with the enactment of Proposition 64. \n\nThe rules for recreational users, however, are much stricter. Proposition 64 limits recreational users to obtaining, transporting or giving away no more than 1 ounce of marijuana or 8 grams of concentrated cannabis. This is another reason to keep your medical marijuana recommendation or obtain one before the end of the year.\n\nIf you’re between 18 and 20 years of age, you won’t be allowed to purchase recreational cannabis until you’re 21. If you’re under 21 and already have a recommendation, you’ll be able to purchase medical cannabis on and after Jan. 1, even if recreational users can’t.\n\n### Is Anything Changing With Marijuana Edibles? \n\nYes. Parents and youth advocates were concerned that some cannabis edibles looked too much like candy and not enough like medicine. Others felt some products contained excessively high levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), posing risks to the public. Proposition 64 addressed these concerns by creating new standards for edibles.\n\nIn January, say farewell to those “medibles” shaped like animals or cartoon characters. They’ll probably reappear, redesigned in a different shape and sold in distinctly different, “child-unfriendly” packaging. \n\nServing sizes are changing dramatically, with all edibles capped at 100 milligrams of THC per package. Items like [chocolate bars must be scored into 10-milligram-sized serving pieces](http://www.mercurynews.com/2017/11/17/californias-new-cannabis-rules-no-drone-deliveries-or-pot-laced-shrimp/), and products must be blended in such a way that THC and other cannabinoids are mixed equally throughout the product.\n\nDispensaries will have a grace period during which they can offer the last of their pre-2018 inventory to patients. In 2018, certain items specifically produced for patients, such as tinctures, may contain a higher THC content. Those will only be available to patients. If there’s a product you know will be sun-setting in January due to these changes, now’s the time to stock up. \n\n### Brace Yourselves. The Price of Cannabis Is Going Up—Way Up for Rec Consumers \n\nLet’s face it, one reason Proposition 64 passed was because lawmakers were eager for the tax revenues generated from the multibillion-dollar cannabis industry. For example, cultivators must now pay the state a tax of $9.25 per ounce of cannabis flowers and $2.75 per ounce of cannabis leaves—just two of the regulatory costs soon to be passed on to consumers.\n\nIn January, cannabis consumers will pay a 15% state excise tax to retailers, in addition to hefty local taxes. _Fortune Magazine_ estimates that in some communities, recreational users could see as much as a [70% increase in cannabis prices](http://fortune.com/2017/11/06/california-marijuana-tax/) come January. The _LA Times_ notes that a $35 purchase of quality cannabis flowers could jump to as much as $70, leaving patients suffering from sticker shock in advance of legalization.\n\n### I’m All for Taxing Cannabis, but Is There a Way to Reduce My Expenses? \n\nYes. [Your city’s sales and use taxes will be waived](http://www.cdtfa.ca.gov/news/17-28.htm) at your dispensary if you possess a Medical Marijuana Identification Card (MMIC) issued by the California Department of Public Health. \n\nThe sales and use tax waiver applies to retail sales of medicinal cannabis products, which includes flowers, concentrates, edibles and topicals. \n\n### Is This MMIC the Same as My Doctor’s Recommendation? \n\nNo. The MMIC is issued by the California Department of Public Health. The MMIC is obtained only at your County Public Health Department—not through your doctor or evaluation center. \n\nThere’s a fee for the MMIC, but Proposition 64 requires that counties cap fees for the MMIC at $100. Discounts are available for qualifying low-income patients. If you rely on more than a few grams of flowers per year, investing in the MMIC will bring immediate cost savings and bolster your legal standing as a medical marijuana patient. A current doctor’s recommendation is required to qualify for the MMIC—another reason to keep or obtain your cannabis recommendation.\n\nIt’s important to note that an MMIC isn’t required to purchase medical marijuana at a dispensary.\n\nVisit the California Health Department’s [MMIC FAQ page](https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHSI/Pages/MMP-FAQS.aspx?PagePreview=true) for more information. Call your [county office](https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHSI/Pages/County-Program-and-Hours.aspx) to ask questions about its MMIC application and to make an appointment. \n\n### Your Marijuana To-Do List \n\nKeep your recommendation or get one before the end of the year. \n\nYour recommendation:\n \n* Guarantees access to your dispensary, regardless of whether it has received a recreational license.\n\n* Allows you to possess the amount of cannabis products recommended by your doctor. \n\n* Exempts you from sale and use taxes on cannabis products when paired with a state Medical Marijuana Identification Card.\n\n* Enables you to purchase certain products only available to medical cannabis patients. \n\n* Allows 18-to-20-year-olds to access dispensary services as a medical marijuana patient. Recreational users must be 21 or older.\n\nPhoto credit: [Sean Oldham](https://unsplash.com/@seanosaur)\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 easy, private and 100% online. ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3605442176870748,"src":"/static/62c60c09b76a0eee1d1d69d9b0dec6a4/14b42/5e47841244437578f0f77a7a7756a707.jpg","srcSet":"/static/62c60c09b76a0eee1d1d69d9b0dec6a4/f836f/5e47841244437578f0f77a7a7756a707.jpg 200w,\n/static/62c60c09b76a0eee1d1d69d9b0dec6a4/2244e/5e47841244437578f0f77a7a7756a707.jpg 400w,\n/static/62c60c09b76a0eee1d1d69d9b0dec6a4/14b42/5e47841244437578f0f77a7a7756a707.jpg 800w,\n/static/62c60c09b76a0eee1d1d69d9b0dec6a4/47498/5e47841244437578f0f77a7a7756a707.jpg 1200w,\n/static/62c60c09b76a0eee1d1d69d9b0dec6a4/0e329/5e47841244437578f0f77a7a7756a707.jpg 1600w,\n/static/62c60c09b76a0eee1d1d69d9b0dec6a4/bbb10/5e47841244437578f0f77a7a7756a707.jpg 3228w","srcWebp":"/static/62c60c09b76a0eee1d1d69d9b0dec6a4/58556/5e47841244437578f0f77a7a7756a707.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/62c60c09b76a0eee1d1d69d9b0dec6a4/61e93/5e47841244437578f0f77a7a7756a707.webp 200w,\n/static/62c60c09b76a0eee1d1d69d9b0dec6a4/1f5c5/5e47841244437578f0f77a7a7756a707.webp 400w,\n/static/62c60c09b76a0eee1d1d69d9b0dec6a4/58556/5e47841244437578f0f77a7a7756a707.webp 800w,\n/static/62c60c09b76a0eee1d1d69d9b0dec6a4/99238/5e47841244437578f0f77a7a7756a707.webp 1200w,\n/static/62c60c09b76a0eee1d1d69d9b0dec6a4/7c22d/5e47841244437578f0f77a7a7756a707.webp 1600w,\n/static/62c60c09b76a0eee1d1d69d9b0dec6a4/0f8c5/5e47841244437578f0f77a7a7756a707.webp 3228w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2460-markdown","title":"Will California Be Ready for Recreational Marijuana?","slug":"will-california-be-ready-for-recreational-marijuana","content":"As 2017 draws to a close, millions of Californians are anticipating the rollout of Proposition 64: the Adult Use of Marijuana Act (AUMA). Prop 64 would make it legal for any adult 21 or older to purchase marijuana and cannabis products. \n\nBut that assumes that this previously unregulated, multibillion-dollar industry will be fully operational under all of the new complex regulations come January 1, 2018—less than a month away. \n\nAnd it won’t. At least not completely.\n\n### Does This Mean I Still Need a Medical Marijuana Card?\n\nAll over the state, people are asking the same questions: \n* Following legalization, will I still need my medical marijuana card? \n* If I don’t have a doctor’s medical marijuana recommendation, should I bother getting one since legalization is just around the corner? \n\nThe answer to both of those questions is a resounding “yes.” If you depend on a trusted supply of cannabis to address health issues, your cannabis recommendation will help to ensure you have uninterrupted access to your medicine during California’s transition to legalization in 2018. \n\nThe expected delays to the full implementation of Prop 64 mean that you won’t be able to walk into your local dispensary on New Year’s Day. The only way to legally purchase cannabis in the vast majority of the state is with a medical marijuana recommendation. So if you don’t already have a medical marijuana card, [get one now](www.hellomd.com). \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### What’s the Latest on the New Marijuana Laws & Regulations\n\nCannabis farmers, distributors and entrepreneurs are working overtime to understand and implement more than 250 pages of regulations that cover everything from advertising to the size of cannabis farms. On Nov. 16, California’s Bureau of Cannabis Control, Department of Food and Agriculture, and Department of Public Health released emergency regulations. They submitted these emergency regulations to the Office of Administrative Law (OAL), which gives the public until Dec. 4 to send in any comments. After the 4th, the OAL will review the regulations and decide on implementation. \n\n### What’s the Realistic Timeline for Recreational Marijuana? \n\nExperts from the cannabis industry including Ca NORML unanimously agree that [the state and most municipalities are woefully unprepared](http://www.canorml.org/news/Recreational_Marijuana_Sales_to_Begin_January_1_in_California) for a Jan. 1 rollout. It’s thought that it could take a minimum of months and possibly years for the regulations to be fully implemented.\n\nRight now, businesses are applying for temporary retail sale licenses. The state isn’t even beginning to process these applications until New Year’s Day. On Jan. 1, cannabis retailers will be anxiously waiting for an email from the state approving their temporary licenses. Once those emails are received, retailers will be permitted to sell recreational marijuana to adults, 21 years of age or older possessing a valid form of identification. \n\n### Cities, Counties Still Formulating Marijuana Legalization Guidelines\n\nThere are 482 cities and localities in California’s 58 counties. Each is making independent decisions regarding the type, number and location of marijuana-related activities within their boundaries. Four nearly adjoining Southern California cities are each adopting completely different regulations regarding cannabis activities, resulting in confusion and uncertainty for consumers.\n\nMost jurisdictions haven’t even completed approving their cannabis regulations. For specific questions, contact your local city and county offices for the latest updates regarding their legalization program. Because we’re less than a month away from January, and there’s still so much uncertainty, the best thing you can do is to keep your cannabis medical recommendation active. If you don’t have one, get one before the end of the year.\n\n### The Supply Chain: Marijuana Legalization’s Weakest Link\n\nCome January, farmers, distributors, retailers and product manufacturers will be required by the State of California to track products to ensure adherence to state and local regulations. Companies that “touch the plant,” such as distributors, will be able to obtain licenses that will enable product to be moved safely, efficiently and legally from one location to another.\n\nSan Diego is one of the first cities in California to finalize their supply chain regulations. Eleven of 17 businesses within the city limits have been approved for operations, creating opportunities for manufacturers and indoor farmers. \n\nHumboldt County’s Agricultural Commissioner’s Office is developing a pilot and software system that will track and trace cannabis from the farm to the retailer. Cultivators will apply a unique, secure stamp to packaged flowers. The stamp will record the size of the plant, strain, the name of the farm and more. As the package moves through the supply chain, the stamp will be scanned by each licensee until it ends up in the hands of the consumer. \n\nThough the development of cannabis supply chains will provide a welcome degree of accountability previously not available to the consumer, this is one of the most daunting tasks faced by cannabis regulators and industry members, and will take considerable time to implement. \n\n### Your Medical Marijuana To-Do List\n\nLegalization is already proving to be messy and challenging. Until the system is operating smoothly, here are some helpful tips:\n\n* If you don’t have a doctor’s medical marijuana recommendation, get one now.\n* If you have a recommendation, check your expiration date and make sure it stays active well into or through 2018.\n* Contact your cannabis dispensary or suppliers, and ask if you'll be able to purchase medicine on Jan. 1.\n* Ask your suppliers if they anticipate any reduction of their inventory.\n* Check with your city and county regarding local guidelines on marijuana legalization.\n\nPhoto credit: [Esteban Lopez](https://unsplash.com/@exxteban)\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-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. 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