As of 2023, medical marijuana is legal in 38 states, while 23 states have legalized recreational use of the plant. In states that have only approved medicinal use, possessing a medical marijuana card is the only way to access cannabis legally. To be an eligible medical marijuana candidate, residents must suffer from one of the “qualifying medical conditions” stipulated by the state.
In recreational states, marijuana is readily accessible to all adults, though laws and regulations may differ slightly between states. When a state legalizes recreational use, many people tend to think there is no use in having an MMJ card. On the contrary, there are many benefits of a medical marijuana card, even in recreational states.
Some of these benefits include lower prices, higher purchase and possession limits, and access to medical-only cannabis dispensaries. We will explore these benefits and more below.
Medicinal vs. Recreational Marijuana
Medicinal and recreational marijuana are two categories defining the legality of marijuana in the U.S. While some states have legalized medicinal marijuana only, others allow recreational use and have medical marijuana programs.
To qualify for a state’s medical program, a person must have a doctor’s recommendation confirming their medical condition and approval from the state. Recreational cannabis, also known as adult-use cannabis, can be purchased by anyone 21 and older without a doctor’s approval.
The key difference between the two is in the name. Medical marijuana is intended to treat medical conditions, specifically, ailments like chronic pain, multiple sclerosis, and epilepsy. Recreational marijuana, on the other hand, is typically used for enjoyment and often in social settings, with many enjoying its mind-altering effects or high.
However, many people may use recreational marijuana for other reasons, such as to improve mental health and wellness. It can also promote spiritual well-being, serve as a substitute for alcohol, and help users relax.
From a legal standpoint, medicinal marijuana may be your only option if you live in a state that hasn’t approved recreational use. But it may still be worth getting yourself an MMJ card even if you live in a recreational state.
The Benefits of a Medical Marijuana Card
MMJ cards offer numerous benefits, even in states where recreational marijuana is legal. Here is why you may want to get an MMJ card.
Lower Costs
An MMJ card can save you money and get you lower prices compared to the recreational market. Medical marijuana is often less expensive than recreational marijuana because of a significant difference in tax rates.
Medical marijuana patients can avoid much of the tax burden, saving at least 5-10% on cannabis products. In almost every state, the tax rate for medicinal products is significantly lower than for recreational products. Several states have even completely exempted the medical market from paying taxes on medicinal products, saving customers a lot of money.
Access to Higher Potency Products
Doctors can prescribe higher doses of cannabis to MMJ cardholders, depending on their medical needs. Depending on the state, the recreational market is often governed by strict potency and possession limits.
On the contrary, MMJ patients are often granted higher purchasing limits and higher potency products made for medical consumers.
Higher Purchasing Limits
While strict limits exist on how much cannabis recreational users can buy, MMJ cardholders can usually buy more. For instance, in California, recreational users can only buy one ounce of cannabis a day, while medical patients can purchase up to eight ounces a day. Each state has different rules, but in most cases, MMJ cardholders can buy larger quantities of cannabis than recreational buyers.
Access to Medical-Only Dispensaries
Medical cannabis dispensaries cater exclusively to MMJ cardholders. These dispensaries give shoppers access to an extensive range of products, often more than what you find in recreational stores. Additionally, you tend to find more knowledgeable and better-trained staff at these dispensaries that can provide you with valuable product information.
Reciprocity
Some states accept MMJ cards from other states, allowing marijuana patients to access cannabis products even while traveling. This is known as reciprocity. Since traveling with marijuana across state lines is illegal, this can be especially helpful. Not all states have reciprocity programs, though, so you will need to check the laws of the state you’re traveling to.
Final Thoughts
In states that don’t allow recreational marijuana use, having an MMJ card is the only way to access cannabis products. But even in recreational states, there are several benefits of a medical marijuana card.
These include cost savings due to lower taxes charged on medical products, access to higher potency products, higher purchasing limits, access to medical-only dispensaries, and reciprocity. So don’t underestimate the value of a medical marijuana card, even if recreational marijuana is legal in your state.