California was the first state to have legalized medical cannabis. And since then, other states across the US have been following the lead and legalizing medical cannabis. With such reforms, it’s easier for people to buy cannabis without being cuffed or questioned. No more stares or prejudice. But the ease in restrictions is also regulated by strict marijuana laws as per the medical marijuana program of the state. This is why to use medical cannabis legally and explore its benefits, you will have to apply for a medical cannabis card.
But you may wonder, why do you really need a medical card? Does it offer you any privileges? Is it important even in a state with legal recreational cannabis? Well, allow me to take you off the fence. Here are 5 reasons why you should get a medical card. And if by the end you do decide to apply for one, remember to get a cannabis card renewal to continue taking all the advantages of medical cannabis.
First, understand what exactly is a medical card.
A medical cannabis card stands as proof of your registration with the state government as a medical cannabis consumer. So you can buy, use and grow cannabis in a legal state without fear of any arrest or legal troubles. The card is in accordance with the marijuana laws of the state and allows you to access medical cannabis easily all across the state.
A medical card also referred to as a medical marijuana recommendation, can only be provided to you by a state-licensed medical professional who is trained in cannabis. They do not prescribe but recommend medical cannabis to all the patients whose medical conditions are qualified for a medical card by the state marijuana laws. This is why it is very important to ensure that you apply for a medical card with only a professional doctor with a legit license and verified address proof. Or your card will be rejected by the state and all its counties.
In addition to this, a medical card is your key to a number of exclusive privileges that are not applicable to people who do not own a medical card.
Now, let’s move onto the reasons why you should get a medical card.
All cannabis activity, whether for medical or recreational purposes is regulated under the marijuana laws of the state. So though medical cannabis is legal, you will have to stick to some rules to avoid legal trouble. However, in comparison to recreational cannabis, these limitations are adjusted to provide more benefits to medical patients. Let me guide you through some of these limitations.
Higher possession limit
As per the marijuana law of the state, you are allowed to possess only a certain amount of cannabis. In California, the limit set for recreational consumers or people without a medical card is 1 ounce. So if you are caught with more than an ounce of cannabis you may face legal troubles. But not unless you have a medical card. Not only is the limit for medical consumers 8 times higher but they also enjoy leverage if in case caught for possession of cannabis.
In California, anyone above the age of 21 years can legally grow cannabis in their home. But the limit is no more than 6 plants at a time. However, if you have a medical card, you can get a recommendation from your doctor and be eligible to grow up to 100 square feet of cannabis in your home. But only for personal use.
You can use cannabis only if you are of legal age. For recreational cannabis, the minimum age to use cannabis is 21 years. As for medical cannabis, the limit is lowered to 18 years so that younger patients who need medical cannabis can use it for their treatment. In fact, medical patients younger than 18 years can also use cannabis after getting a doctor’s recommendation and a legal caregiver of 21 years and above.
Also Read: Manage PTSD Symptoms With Medical Marijuana
Cannabis comes in different levels of potency which is decided by the THC content in the cannabis products or strains. For recreational cannabis, the potency limit keeps them from buying or using products with high THC. In addition to this, they cannot carry a packet that contains more than 1000 mg of THC. With a medical card, you face no restrictions like this.
Medical cannabis consumers have no potency limits. They can visit any legal dispensary in the state and buy high THC strains or products. Also, a registered medical consumer can carry cannabis products with up to 2000 mg of THC per packet. So you are free to try different products of varying potency, unlike recreational cannabis consumers. But a dispensary or online store will allow you to purchase a high THC strain only if you have a medical card. So never forget to carry it before you go for a restock.
If you live in California, you may have seen a lot of people growing cannabis in their home. Well, if you are 21 and above, you can also legally grow up to 6 cannabis plants in your home. Then why do you need a medical card? Because it allows you to have more than 6 plants at home. So you can literally have your own cannabis garden and never worry about a restock or empty shelves in dispensaries.
You are also eligible to apply for a grower’s license and grow up to 100 square feet of cannabis in your home. Also, a medical card is the only way that you can buy, use, or grow cannabis legally in a non-recreational state.
If you go by the books, flying with cannabis is a federal offense. Since medical cannabis isn’t legal under federal law, you can get arrested for possessing cannabis while on a plane. An arrest on a plane is uncommon but the probability still exists. But for people with a medical card, there is leverage.
If you are a medical cannabis consumer, you can take a small amount of cannabis (preferably an amount that’ll last you the entire trip) with you on the airplane. Just remember to keep it sealed in a transparent bag. And do not forget to carry your doctor’s recommendation or medical card.
One of the major advantages of having a medical card is money savings. Monthly expenses on cannabis can pile up but the marijuana laws help you save some money. If you make a cannabis purchase using a medical cannabis card, you do not have to pay sales and use tax. This exemption can save you more than 28 % more than recreational cannabis consumers. In addition to this, you will be able to access varied price ranges and discounts. In short, lots of savings!
So what are you still contemplating? Get your medical card today and experience medical cannabis with all its privileges.
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