The popularity of using medical marijuana is going so fast across the US. More and more states are legalizing its use for various health benefits. That’s why many patients now carry medical marijuana cards for their health conditions.
However, while traveling, it might get tricky to use your medical marijuana card. Also, not all states allow out-of-state facilities for cardholders. So, you’ve to learn the state-specific rules regarding this so that you can avoid legal issues and treat your health with medical marijuana.
Medical Marijuana Reciprocity
Medical marijuana reciprocity is an agreement by states when one state recognizes a medical marijuana card issued by another state and provides medical cannabis to the patient. With this agreement, you, as a patient, can buy medical marijuana from the state you’re visiting.
This way, you can manage your treatment while traveling. Remember that reciprocity laws can be different from one state to another. So, you must learn the specific rules of the state before traveling. With medical marijuana reciprocity, you can have access to cannabis whenever you need it, given that you’re not breaking any laws.
States That Accept Out-of-State Medical Marijuana Cards
Here we’ll talk about a few states that accept out-of-state medical marijuana cards. For example: Arizona, Hawaii, Maine, etc.
Arizona
In Arizona, out-of-state patients can buy medical marijuana, but their condition needs to meet Arizona’s state-specific rules.
Usually, in Arizona, you can buy up to 2.5 ounces of medical marijuana every two weeks.
You’ve to consult with a certified healthcare professional from Arizona so that the doctor can diagnose your condition and allow you to buy marijuana. Those who are traveling for a short time could really benefit from this.
Hawaii
According to our research, in Hawaii, you can have a temporary out-of-state medical marijuana card which will be valid for up to 60 days. As a visitor, with this temporary card, you can buy medical marijuana from the state whenever you need.
You can apply online for the temporary card before your trip. In this way, you make sure that you have continuous access to your treatment.
Maine
Maine accepts medical marijuana cards from various states. If your state is included in that list, you can use your medical marijuana card to buy weed while visiting Maine. You’re allowed to buy up to 2.5 ounces of marijuana.
Before you start your journey, check Maine’s list to see whether your state is included.
States with Limited Reciprocity
Let’s look at the specifics of limited reciprocity for New Hampshire and Utah:
New Hampshire
As per research, in New Hampshire, out-of-state medical marijuana patients can buy up to 2 ounces of cannabis to treat their medical conditions. However, they can’t buy the marijuana products from any local pharmacies.
New Hampshire has specific medical conditions that should be met with yours, and only then can you get qualified to have medical marijuana there. In this way, you can avoid all the legal issues during your stay.
Utah
In Utah, you can use your medical marijuana card as an out-of-state patient, but you’ve to have certain health conditions. As a visitor, you can apply for a temporary card, which is valid for up to 21 days.
With this card, you can carry medical marijuana but cannot buy it from any local dispensary.
Travel Tips for Medical Marijuana Patients
Since there are different state laws and federal laws regarding medical marijuana use, you can experience difficulties in possessing cannabis for your health condition. Especially when you travel, it could become a hassle. But there are some steps which could help you experience a smooth journey.
Remember that even with a medical card, you can’t carry marijuana from one state to another because it is against the law. So, plan ahead to find certified shops in the state you’re traveling to where you can buy your medical marijuana.
Can You Fly with Medical Marijuana?
If you fly with medical marijuana, you might get in trouble for breaking the law. According to federal law, you can’t carry marijuana even if you need it for medical reasons. The TSA allows you to bring only products with 0.3% THC or less. But you are not allowed to bring marijuana with you.
Conclusion
Wrapping up, you’ve to understand and learn which states accept out-of-state medical marijuana cards for patients who need cannabis for their treatment. We’ve discussed the importance of medical marijuana reciprocity and given you a list of states that accept it.
So, always check all the state laws before your trip starts. This way, you can legally access medical marijuana for your health conditions.
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FAQs
Can I use my out-of-state medical marijuana card in any state?
No, not all states accept out-of-state medical marijuana cards. That’s why it’s important for you to check each state’s specific laws and reciprocity agreements.
What should I do if I need medical marijuana while traveling to a state that doesn’t accept my card?
In that case, you may consider relying on recreational dispensaries for the time being. Or if the state allows a temporary medical card, that would also work in your favor.
Is it legal to carry medical marijuana on a plane?
No, you can’t carry medical marijuana while flying from one state to another. It is strictly against the law, and you’ll get severe punishment even if you have a medical marijuana card.
