Update, January 22: Today Vermont’s governor signed into law a cannabis legalization bill that will go into effect on July 1, 2018, making Vermont the ninth state to legalize, the first to do so through their legislature, and the first to do so without a mandate to tax and regulate marijuana (Vermont will allow homegrow, possession, and consumption but not the retail sale of cannabis).

Are you confused about marijuana laws? State-by-state legalization means that folks who wouldn’t have considered it before now have the opportunity to sample this plant. It also means we’re a nation of patchwork, often conflicting, policies when it comes to cannabis. If you’re a new or returning consumer, the complicated nature of state regulations might be enough to keep you from testing the water. But you don’t have to let it!

Splimm’s got a quick guide to pot laws in all of the United States. Whether you live in a place that’s just changed its marijuana status or might be visiting one, you’ll have a sense of what to expect and how to follow the rules.

 

ADULT USE LAWS

Legal States

In eight great states plus our nation’s capital, cannabis is legal for adults 21 and older. Of course, each state has its own regulations regarding retail sales, how much one can purchase, whether or not you can grow at home, driving, public consumption, and other issues. so we’ve also provided links for more information.

Generally speaking, in the following states you can purchase, consume in private, and cultivate limited amounts of cannabis if you’re a grownup (exceptions noted):

Alaska – working on social consumption in the form of cannabis cafes

California

Colorado – limited social consumption approved for Denver, but restrictive rules have prevented any licensing so far

Maine – have postponed retail regulations but expect retail coming by summer 2018

Massachusetts – retail coming by summer of 2018, with social consumption (cannabis clubs) approved

Nevada – homegrown cannabis only allowed if you live at least 25 miles away from a retail store 

Oregon

Washington – no homegrow allowed 

Washington, D.C. – no retail stores

 

No Jail Time for Possession of Small Amounts

Several states have decriminalized cannabis, meaning there’s no penalty of jail time if you’re caught with a small amount. You still can’t legally purchase or consume cannabis recreationally, but most of these states do have MMJ programs.

 

MEDICAL CANNABIS LAWS

Medical Marijuana States

Twenty-two states (in addition to the  above) have legalized medical marijuana in some capacity. The states’ laws differ when it comes to how cannabis may be procured, qualifying conditions, reciprocity with other states, etc.  Most medical cannabis states have dispensaries where patients can purchase medicine or are in the process of licensing and opening them. We recommend consulting Americans for Safe Access for the most up-to-date information about federal and state medical cannabis laws. You can also find resources to help you get a medical marijuana card in your state.

Medical marijuana is legal in Puerto Rico and in Guam too.

 

CBD-only States

In 16 states, cannabis is still illegal, but cannabidiol oil (CBD) is allowed for some medical purposes. You can’t legally purchase or grow medical or recreational marijuana in these states, which often leaves patients without any recourse but to break the law to access CBD. 

 

LIVING IN THE DARK AGES

No Decrim, MMJ, or CBD

These final three have the dubious distinction of not reducing sentences for cannabis or allowing medical marijuana or even CBD. Weed is a crime in these states, period. 

• Idaho
• Kansas
• South Dakota

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Note: Cannabis remains federally illegal, despite its legality in the above-mentioned states…🤷🏻‍♀️