Proposition 215 was passed by California voters in 1996, which made CA the first state in the United States to allow for the medical use of marijuana. The California Department of Health (CDPH) administers the Medical Marijuana Identification Card Program (MMICP).
We’ll have a look at the Medical Marijuana Laws in California and show you if and how you can qualify.
The Medical Marijuana Identification Card Program (MMICP)
The MMICP was established to create a state-authorized Medical Marijuana Identification Card, and a registry database for verification of qualified patients and their caregivers. Participation by both patients and caregivers is voluntary. The Medical Marijuana Program registry allows law enforcement to verify the validity of a qualified patient or caregiver and allows cardholders to possess legally, grow, transport and use medical cannabis within California state lines.
The California Medical Marijuana Identification Card Program is only available to California residents with certain medical conditions. Medical cannabis products are distributed by State approved dispensaries only. If you believe your medical condition(s) qualifies for a Medical Marijuana card, discuss your symptoms and condition with your doctor.
What conditions qualify for the Medical Marijuana Identification Card Program in California?
Patients in California diagnosed with one or more of the following medical conditions qualify for a Medical Marijuana Identification Card:
- AIDS
- Anorexia
- Arthritis
- Cachexia
- Cancer
- Chronic pain
- Glaucoma
- Migraines
- Persistent muscle spasms, including multiple sclerosis
- Seizures, including epilepsy
- Sever nausea
Will additional conditions be added to the list of qualifying conditions?
Other chronic or persistent medical symptoms that are not included on the above list, that either limit a person’s ability to conduct one or more major life activities as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, may qualify for the use of medical cannabis.
Where to find a Medical Marijuana Doctor in CA?
California law requires all medical cannabis physicians to be licensed. Given that CA was the first state to legalize the use of marijuana for medical purposes, there is a large number of licensed physicians throughout the state. You’ll most likely find a licensed doctor very close to where you’re located.
Where are the legal cannabis dispensaries in California
There are legal cannabis dispensaries in more than 50 cities throughout California. There’s a site that will help you locate a dispensary near you.
What does my medical cannabis card get me at a CA dispensary?
- Eight ounces of dried marijuana.
- Six mature marijuana plants.
- 12 immature marijuana plants.
Where can you smoke?
In California, smoking marijuana is not permitted in the following areas:
- In a no smoking zone.
- Within 1,000 feet of a school or youth center.
- On school buses.
- In a motor vehicle, including a boat, while being operated.
Are patients are caregivers shielded from discrimination?
Yes. As a primary caregiver, you cannot apply for a Medical Marijuana Identification Card. The patient, the caregiver care for, is responsible for applying for a Medical Marijuana Identification Card. On the Application Form, there is a check box the patient must check if they are applying for both themselves and their caregiver. Both the patient and the caregiver need to be present in person at the county program office when the patient applies because both the patient and caregiver will be photographed for their individual Medical Marijuana Identification Card.
What is the future of the Medical Marijuana Program in CA?
The rules and regulations in California regarding medical cannabis are constantly being revised and updated. You can keep up with all of the changes related to medical cannabis rulemaking, rule changes and other updates regarding the Medical Marijuana Identification Card Program.
