In the Evergreen State, Washington, weed is indeed legal. However, when it comes to driving, individuals should be mindful of the legal limit – it is illegal to operate a vehicle with more than 5 nanograms of active THC per milliliter of blood.
This precaution is in place to avert potential legal consequences for those exceeding the specified limit. Moreover, for those embarking on journeys beyond state lines, it’s crucial to recognize that taking cannabis outside of Washington, even to another legalized state, is strictly prohibited.
Furthermore, Washington laws lack reciprocity for out-of-state patients, meaning individuals from other states may not enjoy the same benefits and protections as Washington cannabis patients.
However, visitors aged 21 and above are permitted to purchase cannabis products from any licensed retailer within the state.
When was Weed Legalized in Washington
The Washington weed legalization date was November 2012. Washington State, in tandem with Colorado, achieved this historic milestone by legalizing adult-use cannabis through the approval of I-502.
This initiative not only allowed adults aged 21 and older to possess up to an ounce of cannabis but also established regulations and taxes for its production and distribution. Legal cannabis sales commenced in July 2014.
Employment and Housing
In Washington, employers and landlords possess the right to impose and enforce cannabis use restrictions, irrespective of an individual’s legal age or possession of a medical cannabis authorization.
It is prudent to familiarize oneself with the specific policies in place before engaging in cannabis use to avoid any complications related to employment or housing.
Public vs. Private Use
Public consumption of cannabis, including smoking, vaping, or consuming edibles while outdoors, is illegal. On the contrary, private property affords individuals the liberty to use cannabis, but it’s imperative to recognize that property owners retain the right to impose restrictions on such use.
Retail vs. Medically-Endorsed
Individuals aged 21 and older have the opportunity to purchase medical marijuanas washington from licensed retail stores. Furthermore, a cannabis retail licensee can obtain a medical endorsement, enabling them to sell cannabis for medical use or provide it at no cost to qualifying patients and their designated providers. This endorsement also grants access to the authorization database for registering qualifying patients and designated providers.
Medical Use
Healthcare Professionals
Washington State law empowers specific healthcare professionals, including MDs, DOs, DOAs, ARNPs, NTs, and PAs, to authorize cannabis for medical use.
Qualifying Conditions
To qualify for medical cannabis use, an individual must be a resident of Washington State and diagnosed with a qualifying condition. The list of qualifying conditions is stipulated on the state’s medical cannabis authorization form.
Authorization Process
Patients seeking medical cannabis must obtain an authorization form from their healthcare professional. This form, to be valid, must be completed, signed, and printed on tamper-resistant paper. Subsequently, to be officially recognized and receive a card, the patient can take the authorization form to a medically-endorsed cannabis store, where a certified consultant will assist with registration and check the qualifying conditions for medical card in washington state.
Certified Consultants
All licensed medically-endorsed retail stores are mandated to have certified medical cannabis consultants on staff.
These consultants play a pivotal role in guiding patients through the registration process and providing insights into products that may be beneficial for their medical condition.
Adult Patients and Designated Providers
Medical cannabis authorizations for adult patients with washington medical card (age 18 and older) are valid for up to one year. Those between the ages of 18-20 must be registered to make purchases from a medically-endorsed store or the Washington state dispensary.
Designated providers, individuals aged 21 or older, can provide cannabis to a qualifying patient, holding their own authorization obtained from the patient’s healthcare professional.
Minor Patients
For minor patients (under age 18), a Washington med card is valid for six months or less. Both the minor patient and their parent/legal guardian are obligated to register in the database.
Possession and Growing
Home Cultivation
Current weed legalization Washington law prohibits home cultivation for recreational use. Only licensed cannabis producers and qualifying patients authorized by healthcare professionals may grow cannabis under existing regulations.
Growing for Medical Use
Patients with authorization are permitted to grow up to four plants within their domicile. The number of plants can be extended up to six (with a maximum of 15 per household) based on the healthcare professional’s recommendation.
Cooperatives
Qualifying patients registered in the database can opt to join a cooperative to cultivate their plants. This serves as an alternative for patients who are unable to grow within their domicile.
Resources
Various state departments play a crucial role in regulating and providing information related to Washington MMJ:
- Department of Health: Manages the Washington cannabis legalization authorization database, medical cannabis consultant certificates, and offers standards for products beneficial for medical use. Phone: 360-236-4819 | Email: medicalcannabis@doh.wa.gov
- Liquor and Cannabis Board: Responsible for licensing and regulating all cannabis businesses, including producers, processors, and retailers. Phone: 360-664-1600 | Contact Them
- Department of Agriculture: Provides information on pesticide use on cannabis, cannabis-infused edibles processors, and industrial hemp. Phone: 360-902-1800 | Contact Them
- Department of Revenue: Manages recreational and medical cannabis taxes and recordkeeping. Website | Phone: 1-800-647-7706
Understanding and abiding by the regulations and guidelines established by these departments is sometimes essential. Whether you’re a long-time resident or a curious visitor, being well-informed guarantees a responsible and enjoyable experience within the parameters of the law.
