Even with the increasing prevalence of recreational cannabis laws, the medical marijuana market remains a significant player for numerous reasons. Holding a medical marijuana ID can have predominantly positive effects, but there are potential consequences depending on the state. In this article, we’ll delve into the pros and cons for aspiring med card holders and explore how cannabis laws can differ from state to state. If you’re eager to get approved swiftly, look no further than the most trusted medical card provider.
Why Do You Need a Medical Marijuana Card in Bakersfield?
While more states have embraced medical cannabis use, some remain restrictive in terms of qualifying conditions, dosages, and permitted products, making them less functional as medical marketplaces. The Upside of Having a Medical Marijuana Card in Bakersfield. Let’s take a closer look at the advantages of possessing a medical marijuana card:
1. Priority Access
When the market faces shortages, medical patients get to jump the line at dispensaries. This decision by lawmakers ensures that patients receive their medicine even during critical supply shortages, like those experienced during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic when dispensaries were deemed essential businesses.
2. Increased Purchase Limits
Medical marijuana patients can typically buy larger quantities of cannabis compared to recreational buyers. For example, in Arizona, medical cannabis patients can purchase up to 2.5 ounces at a time, while recreational consumers are limited to an ounce. This allows patients to stock up on their medicine and ensures they have an ample supply to address their medical conditions without making frequent dispensary trips, saving time and gas. Remember to understand your state’s rules before making purchases. Your Budtender will be well-informed and ready to assist you if you’re unsure about the regulations.
3. Legal Protection
A medical cannabis card grants you the legal right to buy, possess, and consume cannabis. Similar to a driver’s licence, you need your card to participate legally in the cannabis marketplace. Failure to have your ID on hand may lead to legal consequences depending on your state. For instance, in Florida, individuals caught with cannabis without their med card could face a second-degree misdemeanor charge.
4. Higher Potency
Medical cardholders may receive prescriptions for higher doses of cannabis if their condition warrants it. In contrast, adult-use consumers seeking higher doses may need to purchase more products, driving up costs. Medical consumers, on the other hand, often receive higher purchasing allotments and access to higher concentration products tailored for their needs. Depending on state laws, medical products may contain higher doses of THC per package and dose compared to those found at recreational dispensaries. High potency vape cartridges and edibles are common examples, with potencies often ranging from 50% to 90%.
5. Cost Savings
Legal cannabis can be expensive, especially in the recreational market. Medical patients may face higher costs due to yearly medical marijuana fees and higher tax rates in certain states. In contrast, adult-use consumers are often subject to two or three tiers of taxes applied to their cannabis purchases. However, medical cannabis patients can avoid a significant portion of this tax burden, saving at least 5-10% (and up to 35% in some states) on each purchase. Several states entirely exempt the medical market from retail and excise taxes since the use is medical, not recreational.
6. Higher Possession Limits
Medical marijuana patients are allowed to possess up to a 60-day supply of cannabis as defined by their physician. This typically allows patients to hold and store more cannabis than recreational consumers. However, possession limits vary depending on the amount recommended in your certification. It’s essential to check your limits and speak to your physician in Bakersfield if the recommended amount doesn’t meet your daily needs. Always abide by your state’s possession limits to avoid steep criminal penalties.