While legislation was passed to legalize medical marijuana in 2014, it wasn’t until 2016 that the Maryland General Assembly passed a law that decriminalized the possession of marijuana paraphernalia and decriminalized the smoking of marijuana in public. Now, medical marijuana is legal, operating through the Natalie M. LaPrade Maryland Medical Cannabis Commission (MMCC). Here’s what you need to know:
Qualifying Patients
Only people suffering from specific conditions or symptoms are permitted to use medical marijuana in Maryland. Some of those conditions include:
- Nausea
- Seizures
- Anorexia
- Chronic pain
- PTSD
These are just some conditions that qualify individuals for medical marijuana use. However, to be considered a qualifying patient, you must be examined by a state-approved physician. After you are examined and approved for medical marijuana consumption, patients must show proper identification when purchasing marijuana.
How to Become a Marijuana Patient in Maryland
You do not have to be a state resident to be eligible for medical marijuana. Out-of-state residents in Maryland are eligible to become medical marijuana patients under House Bill 881. To become a Maryland Marijuana patient, you must submit an application to the MMCC. For the application process, you must have:
- An electronic copy of your state-issued ID
- Proof of Maryland address or proof of treatment by a Maryland medical center
- A recommendation from a physician that is licensed by the state of Maryland to recommend medical cannabis treatment
- Medical records or documentation of the condition that requires you to consume medical marijuana
Purchase Limits
In Maryland, patients are allowed to purchase 120 grams of usable cannabis or 36 grams of THC as a 30-day supply. A patient’s provider can provide a written statement certifying a patient for a specific amount. Additionally, the 30-day supply operates on a rolling basis, not monthly. That means the cycle starts the moment you receive your 30-day supply and doesn’t necessarily reset at the first of the month.
Dispensaries
Medical marijuana dispensaries must be approved by the state before they can sell marijuana to patients. To date, the MMCC has issued medical cannabis Dispensary pre-approvals to 102 companies. If you wish to open a medical cannabis dispensary, you must submit an application fee, the legal name and physical address of the proposed dispensary, information about the principal officer and direct, and intended operating procedures. The state encourages applicants who qualify as a minority business.
Become a Maryland Marijuana Patient Today
If you’re looking to become a medical marijuana patient, CannaLeaf Health is here to help. We provide online evaluations and renewals so you can start using it as soon as possible. Give us a call at 443-800-0670 for a free consultation.
