Although cannabis is still illegal under federal law in the United States, medical marijuana programs approved by states continue to grow like weeds throughout the country and around the globe. A state-specific identification card, also known as a Medical Marijuana Texas card or weed card, is the key to unlocking the potential benefits of cannabis.
States that have legalized medical cannabis have implemented specific laws and regulations to suit a variety of conditions.
Although the rules and procedures for getting a medical cannabis card are different for each state, it is important to understand the process so that you can decide if you want one. Let’s start with an introduction.
What’s A Medical Marijuana Card?
A state-issued medical marijuana card allows patients to buy cannabis products at a dispensary for medical conditions. A medical card is often required to enter dispensaries.
The card can be used to prove that patients are allowed to grow small amounts of cannabis at home, or use medical marijuana delivery services. Patients may also be able to designate a caregiver to grow, administer or purchase their medical marijuana.
Each state’s department is responsible for overseeing the operation of most medical cannabis programs. These state departments oversee the patient and caregiver side of the program.
Some states restrict the use of pharmaceutical cannabis derivatives or require that patients exhaust all conventional treatment options before a doctor recommends medical marijuana.
Do You Need To Apply? The Pros And Cons Of A Medical Marijuana Card
A medical marijuana card is a great option if you reside in a state that has a medical marijuana program, but not a recreational one. Medical marijuana is tested for pesticides and mold before being sold. This is in contrast to illegal cannabis. The medical marijuana card allows patients to have access to more cannabis products. It is easy to find and track dosages, as well as identify and track the THC and CBD levels.
Consumers should consider whether paying an application fee to apply for a medical cannabis card in a state that has recreational marijuana is worth it. It is important to understand the benefits of a medical cannabis card in a state that allows both recreational and licensed users to purchase marijuana.
There are two reasons why a recreational marijuana card could not be obtained. Patients aged 21 or older can legally buy cannabis in adult-use shops without needing to pay an application fee. People may be reluctant to share their personal information in a medical marijuana registry. Despite the widespread legalization of medical marijuana, there is still a stigma that could discourage people from signing up to become a patient.
There are many other benefits that patients can still get a medical marijuana card besides these factors. These include:
- The dispensary bud-tender and physician can give treatment advice to patients, which allow them to determine the best products to treat their condition.
- Patients with a medical marijuana card in states that allow adult-use cannabis can buy more potent products than those on the recreational market.
- Many medical products can be purchased at a lower cost or with a reduced tax rate.
- Cardholders may be able to use medical-only delivery services with a medical card.
Adult-use programs generally require customers to have a 21-year-old or older. However, many medical marijuana programs allow patients 18 years old and older to apply for a medical marijuana card. Minors under 18 years old who could also benefit from medical marijuana can also apply for a card with the approval of a parent/guardian.
What Amount Of Marijuana Can You Buy With A Medical Card?
Each state determines how much medical marijuana you are legally allowed to buy and possess. The majority of states have established a maximum amount of medical marijuana that can be purchased at a dispensary at any given time. Patients can also be allowed to have a limited amount of marijuana products or flowers.
These limits are important for medical patients as well as those who use them. In Montana, for example, medical marijuana patients are permitted to possess 1 ounce (or 28.35 grams) of cannabis flower. Delaware, however, allows up to 6 ounces or 170 grams.
