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December 13, 2023 08:00 am ETEstimated Read Time: 3 Minutes
The new Cannabis Reform Act legalized the recreational use of cannabis in Maryland. Though this new development has made it easier for cannabis enthusiasts who do not own a medical card — it comes at a cost.
High taxes, strict restrictions, and tough grow limits are just the start of the double-edged sword of recreational legalization. So, as Maryland celebrates its new recreational market, let’s discuss why having a medical cannabis card is more important than ever.
The Medical Cannabis Edge
Long before Maryland legalized recreational use, medical cannabis reigned supreme. The same attitude that made medical cannabis patients a priority early on has remained, even after recreational legalization. Case in point, Maryland law states that medical patients have priority over dispensary cannabis supplies.
This is just one of many examples of the benefits that medical cannabis patients enjoy. Let’s dive into the many reasons why Marylanders should hold on to their MMJ cards even after legalization.
Reduced Age Restrictions
In an effort to minimize young adult cannabis use, Maryland law states that only individuals aged 21+ can access recreational cannabis. Further, measures that would restrict cannabis advertising targeting children are under consideration. Maryland’s goal here is clear — prepare for more regulations as the recreational market grows.
A stark contrast to Maryland’s age-restriction push, owning a medical marijuana card allows eligible individuals under 21 to purchase cannabis. Young patients who require the use of medical cannabis for the treatment of illnesses like cancer may do so as long as they are over 18. Those under 21 looking to qualify need a caregiver to verify their condition.
It Costs Less
Maryland cannabis dispensaries charge a 9% tax on recreational use cannabis purchases. While this may not seem like much, over time, these extra charges start to hurt your bank account.
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Lower costs are amongst the most common reasons that individuals seek out a medical card. With your card, you can save thousands of dollars annually just on taxes. This doesn’t even account for medical-only sales and offers you may be missing out on.
Grow More Cannabis At Home
A household in Maryland can lawfully cultivate as many as two cannabis plants in their home as long as everyone in that household is 21 years of age or older. Having a medical marijuana card enables individuals to cultivate an extra two plants. This gives a total of four cannabis plants that can be lawfully cultivated in your household.
Increased Possession Limit and Potency
Adults 21 years and older can possess up to 1.5 ounces of cannabis flower, 12 grams of concentrated cannabis, or a total amount of cannabis products that does not exceed 750 mg of THC.
Owning a medical marijuana card in Maryland gives you the ability to possess more portions of cannabis, including medical cannabis, which has a stronger potency than what is sold for recreational use.
Strong Legal Protection
Owning a medical marijuana card can help you in legally complicated situations with cannabis. You are in a safer spot because you are backed by a licensed medical practitioner.
How to Get A Medical Marijuana Card in Maryland
Veriheal is committed to making the process of acquiring a medical marijuana card very easy and stress-free for you.
This is all you need to do to get your medical card with Veriheal:
Find a licensed medical practitioner and acquire your card.
Mary Ekundayo is a passionate cannabis writer and entrepreneur with a love for all things literary. When she's not creating content, you can find Mary lost in the pages of a captivating book or meditating to set the tone for her day.
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