Even if you own a marijuana dispensary in California, it is still very important that you and your staff learn everything about the laws and regulations surrounding the purchase and usage of the products that you sell. These are what your customers and clients also have to learn and comply with in order for them to be allowed to buy and use your products, especially for medical reasons.
California is the nation that led to the legalization of medicinal marijuana. Under the state law, patients who would be able to meet the requirements are the only ones who can get and use marijuana legally, of course, with doctor’s recommendation. Recreational marijuana has also been legalized in California, but this still remains illegal under federal law. So if you are selling marijuana, you have to know more not only about the California Marijuana Dispensary Laws but also the regulations that apply to your clients.
Medical Marijuana: Local And Federal California Laws
Since Proposition 215, that is, the Compassionate Use Act was passed in 1996, the medical use of cannabis has been legalized. It was then followed by Proposition 64, which is the Medical and Adult-Use Cannabis Regulation and Safety Act, that legalized recreational marijuana. The combination of the acts made it easier for California residents to gain access to marijuana, whether for medical or recreational use.
These rules permit and regulate different activities that involve cannabis. These include cultivation, distribution, as well as the manufacturing, testing, and also dispensary and transportation of cannabis both in local and state agencies. On January 1, 2018, the temporary state licenses became available for business owners who would want to be a part of the cannabis industry.
There are cities and counties that still regulate dispensaries as well as the cultivation of marijuana. But each county or city also has its own unique regulations. However, under federal law, the use, possession, as well as the distribution of marijuana, is still illegal. You have to educate your clients that there is no special exemption in regulations, even for medical use. The laws in California will not be able to override this federal law.
Medical Recommendation – Is It Needed For Recreational Use?
Many are still wondering now that recreational marijuana is legal in California, whether they still need to provide a medical recommendation to get their cannabis products from dispensaries. Well, those with a doctor’s recommendation will not only be able to possess, but also grow their own marijuana in larger quantities compared to recreational users.
In addition to that, buyers who are below 21 years of age should still provide a doctor’s recommendation in order to purchase marijuana from your dispensary. However, you should also know that there are dispensaries in California that stopped selling products to patients who are under 21 years old even though they can provide a recommendation from their physician. Also, individuals who can present a county-issued medical marijuana ID will be exempted from paying tax on their marijuana purchases.
The Limit for Acquiring And Possessing Marijuana
Individual patients are allowed to possess up to 6 mature or 12 immature plants, and also 8 ounces of dried cannabis. This is according to Senate Bill 420 of 2003. This bill allows patients to grow their own cannabis or buy them from licensed dispensaries. Different cities and counties may raise their limits on quantity. They can also impose their own zoning restrictions and restrict dispensaries or even prohibit outdoor cultivation.
Cannabis Dispensary In California
Opening a marijuana dispensary in California is not that difficult because its has been continuously ranked as the largest marijuana market worldwide. With this kind of market available, it is not a surprise that more and more entrepreneurs want to enter the ever-growing cannabis industry. If this is you, or if you have already established your dispensary in California, then do not be afraid to take advantage of the cannabis market.
The Bureau of Cannabis Control in California was specifically created to regulate commercial cannabis licenses both for medical and recreational use. If you are already in the industry, take care of your business and continue to grow by providing the best cannabis products and services to your clients. If you are still planning to open up your own dispensary, then do not wait any further. Educate yourself and join the cannabis industry soon!