With the states’ choice to decide the fate of medical and recreational cannabis, it seems like weed laws conflict practically everywhere you go. And they do. That’s why it’s so crucial to become familiar with the particular cannabis laws in your area before even attempting to spark a joint. Today, let’s focus on Little America: Maryland.
So, is medical marijuana legal in Maryland? And, how can you get your MD medical card?
Medical Marijuana Legalization
Maryland has legalized medical marijuana in a limited capacity and is continuing to expand the program. Currently, patients with severe and debilitating illnesses may access medical marijuana through dispensaries if they have been certified by their physician. In addition, medical marijuana may be purchased for home cultivation by registered patients who have received special permission from the state.
Medical marijuana in Maryland is also subject to a number of restrictions that are designed to protect consumers and ensure the integrity of the industry. For example, product labeling must include certain information about cannabinoids, terpenes and other constituents, as well as information about potential side effects or potential interactions with other medications. Patients may not purchase more than a 30-day supply at one time from a dispensary, and all products must meet laboratory testing requirements before being sold.
The program continues to evolve over time as lawmakers work towards allowing more comprehensive access to medical marijuana for those in need. Whether you’re a patient looking for more information or an advocate wanting to stay informed on developments in the field, it’s important to remember that progress is being made towards expanding access and protecting consumers.
Recreational Marijuana Legalization
Maryland has not yet legalized recreational (or adult-use) marijuana, but the state is making progress towards that end. Currently, Governor Larry Hogan has proposed legislation that would create a framework for the regulation and taxation of recreational marijuana.
The proposed bill would allow adults over the age of 21 to purchase, possess and use cannabis products obtained from licensed retail dispensaries. The products would be subject to a sales tax, with revenues from the tax being dedicated to public education. Home cultivation of cannabis is also included in the proposal, though it is limited to 6 plants per household.
As with any new law or policy, there are many details that must be ironed out before this law can become a reality. But the fact that Maryland is seriously considering legalizing recreational marijuana is a positive step forward for those who support its legalization. With strong public support and a governor who appears willing to take steps towards making recreational marijuana legal in Maryland, we may one day have an adult-use market in this state.
In What Form Can Medical Marijuana Be Sold in Maryland?
According to Maryland marijuana laws, dried flower and marijuana-infused products like oils, lotions, and pills are legal, and you can find them in licensed dispensaries. The state also permits edibles and vapes.
READ MORE: Does Maryland Have Medical Marijuana? (And Is It Any Good?)
How Do I Get a Medical Marijuana Card in Maryland?
To get a medical marijuana card in Maryland, you must register as a patient. The registration processes for adults and minors below 18 are different, but you must complete them online.
Registration Process for Adults (Patients aged at least 18)
Adult patients who wish to register for a Maryland medical marijuanas card are to provide the following:
- Social Security Number
- An electronic copy of a clear and recent passport photograph
- Valid email account
- Proof of residency
- An electronic copy of a government-issued ID; includes military ID, driver’s license, US passport, and state-issued photo ID.
- $50 application fee. Patients enrolled in the Maryland Medical Assistance Program or the Veterans Affairs Maryland Health Care System are eligible for a waiver.
STEP 1 – Online Application
Visit mmcc.maryland.gov and create an account. Then complete and submit the patient application.
STEP 2 – Very Your Email Address
After you complete and submit your online application form, you’ll receive a verification email sent to the email address you provided during your application form. Click the verification link to verify your email. This step is compulsory; without it, your application is not complete.
STEP 3 – Application Review
After you have submitted your application form and verified your email, the MMCC will review your application. You’ll receive an email that will notify you of the status of your application; whether or not it has been approved. Retain the approval email because you’ll need the details to log into your patient registry and get a physician certification.
STEP 4 – Designate a Caregiver
This step is optional. If your application is successful and you want a caregiver, log into your account on the patient registry and designate a caregiver. You can only specify a caregiver approved by the MMCC.
STEP 5 – Physician Certification
After the MMCC has approved your application, visit a certifying provider duly registered with the MMCC to obtain a certification. You can find publicly registered providers here.
You must have an in-person meeting with the certifying provider, and it must be a physician with whom you share a bonafide provider-patient relationship.
If your physician is satisfied that you’ll benefit from medical marijuana treatment, they will enter your certification information into the MMCC.
(Don’t forget! You can always book an appointment through Elevate Holistics, instead. With us, you don’t even have to leave your house.)
After you get a physician certification, you can print your Maryland medical marijuana card. A physician certification is valid for one year. If you don’t buy medical marijuana within 120 days after getting your certification, it will expire, and you’ll need to get a new one.
For more information on the adult patient registration process, visit the Process Overview page.
Registration Process for Minors (Patients Aged Under 18)
The registration process for minors is similar to that for adults, but caregivers will register on behalf of minors.
Minors must have caregivers before registering for medical marijuana, and the caregivers must be registered with the MMCC.
For more information, see the process overview page and quick reference card.
Where Can I Buy Marijuana in Maryland?
Medical marijuana patients can buy marijuana products from any licensed Maryland medical dispensary.
You must purchase from only licensed dispensaries because the law does not protect you if you buy from an unlicensed source.
Also, licensed dispensaries are regulated, so their products are of the highest quality; you’re guaranteed to get the good stuff.
You can find the names and locations of licensed dispensaries in Maryland here.
Does Health Insurance Cover Medical Marijuana?
Maryland MMJ laws do not require health insurers to cover medical marijuana.
The MMCC website states, “medical cannabis is not reimbursable by any private or public insurance plan, Medicare or Medicaid, or through Veterans’ covered plans.”
Does a Medical Marijuana Card Offer Employee Protection?
Maryland marijuana laws state that residents cannot discriminate against patients based on medical marijuana consumption.
However, all employees are expected to comply if your workplace has a drug-free policy.
Also, property owners can prohibit cannabis use on their property as part of the tenancy agreement.
What Are the Qualifying Conditions for Medical Marijuana in Maryland?
Patients suffering from the following qualifying medical conditions are eligible to apply for medical marijuana in Maryland.
- Cachexia
- Anorexia
- Wasting syndrome
- Severe or chronic pain
- Severe nausea
- Seizures
- Severe or persistent muscle spasms
- Glaucoma
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Other chronic medical condition which is severe and for which other treatments have been ineffective.
What if your condition is not among those above? Fortunately, you can petition the MMCC if you want the state to add a new qualifying condition.
However, your petition must include the following:
- The severity of the condition.
- The degree to which other treatments have been unable to alleviate the symptom.
- Evidence that the condition will benefit from medical marijuana treatment.
- Information or studies regarding the beneficial or adverse effects of medical marijuana treatment on the condition.
- Letters of support from provided or licensed health care practitioners.
Can You Grow Marijuana in Maryland?
Maryland marijuana laws allow only licensed growers to grow marijuana; medical patients are not allowed to grow marijuana.
Can Patients Have Caregivers?
Yes, medical marijuana patients in Maryland can designate two people to serve as their caregivers. The caregivers must be at least 21 years and register with the Maryland Medical Cannabis Commission.
Patients under 18 must have at least one caregiver, and the caregiver must be a parent or a legal guardian.
Minor patients can have up to four caregivers; two must be a parent or legal guardian, and the other two designated by a parent or legal guardian.
For detailed information on caregiver requirements and the registration process, click here.
Where Can I Consume Marijuana in Maryland?
Even if you have a valid medical marijuana card, you can’t consume marijuana in public.
It is best to consume marijuana in the privacy of your home, away from public observation.
Note that property owners can ban marijuana on their property as part of the tenancy agreement.
Does Maryland Have Marijuana Reciprocity?
No, medical marijuana card holders from out-of-state cannot purchase medical marijuana in Maryland.
How Much Medical Marijuana Can You Possess in Maryland?
There are two medical marijuana purchase limits in Maryland, one for dried flowers and the other for THC in marijuana-infused products.
Patients can buy 4 ounces (120 grams) of cannabis flower and 1 ounce of THC (36 grams) in a marijuana-infused product within 30 days.
Certifying providers may recommend more or less than the legal limit on a patient’s certification.
Who Can Prescribe Medical Marijuanas in Maryland?
Marijuana is still a Schedule I drug federally; consequently, no one can prescribe it. Fortunately, Maryland medical card doctors can recommend medical marijuana to patients and provide certification.
Note that only physicians duly registered as Maryland medical marijuanas doctors can recommend medical marijuana.
Any of the following physicians can be a certifying provider if they are registered with the MMCC.
- A doctor with a license from the State Board of Physicians in good standing with the board
- A dentist with a license from the State Board of Dental Examiners in good standing with the board
- A podiatrist with a license from the State Board of Podiatric Medical Examiners in good standing with the board
- A nurse with a license from the State Board of Nursing in good standing with the board
- A physician’s assistant with a license from the State Board of Physicians has a delegation agreement with a physician who is a certifying provider and is in good standing with the board.
Here at Elevate Holistics, we also have a team of board-certified physicians that can help you get your Maryland medical card completely hassle-free, and right from home. Just click here to book your appointment and get started.
Can I Use My Maryland Medical Card in Another State?
Some states offer medical marijuana reciprocity. Before you visit, check the state’s marijuana laws.
For a full list of states that offer MMJ reciprocity, simply click here.
Marijuana in Maryland: You Can’t Go Wrong With Elevate
When it comes to medical marijuana, information and efficient service are indispensable. They guarantee access to the therapeutic qualities of nature’s most magical plant.
Thankfully, patients don’t have to look far to find the cannabis information and satisfactory service they need because here at Elevate Holistics, that is what we do.
We help you navigate the maze of regulations and requirements that define the medical marijuana landscape so that the process is seamless for you.
Our services cover helping you get your medical marijuana card, connecting you with a qualified physician, or finding a licensed dispensary. For more information, visit our Maryland FAQ cannabis page.
We are your ‘Everything Cannabis’ company. Book an appointment with us today and get your health and wellness journey started.
