Marijuana has been legal in Michigan for both medical and adult use since 2018. However, the rules surrounding the two forms of usage are different. In this essay, we will explore the differences between medical marijuana and adult use marijuana rules in Michigan.
Medical Marijuana Rules
Michigan’s Medical Marihuana Program (MMP) was established in 2008, and it allows patients with qualifying medical conditions to use and possess marijuana. To qualify for the MMP, patients must be diagnosed with one or more of the following conditions: cancer, glaucoma, HIV/AIDS, hepatitis C, Crohn’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, ALS, PTSD, severe and chronic pain, severe nausea, seizures, or any other condition that causes chronic pain or severe nausea.
To become a registered patient in the MMP, patients need to obtain a written certification from a physician licensed in Michigan. The certification should state that the physician has reviewed the patient’s medical history and that the patient has a qualifying medical condition that may benefit from the use of medical marijuana. Once the certification is obtained, patients can apply for a medical marijuana card through the Michigan Medical Marijuana Program website.
As a medical marijuana patient in Michigan, you are allowed to possess up to 2.5 ounces of usable marijuana at any given time. You can also grow up to 12 marijuana plants for personal use or have a designated caregiver grow the plants for you.
Adult Use Marijuana Rules
Michigan’s adult use marijuana law, known as the Michigan Regulation and Taxation of Marihuana Act (MRTMA), was passed in 2018. It allows adults aged 21 and older to use, possess, and grow marijuana for personal use. However, unlike medical marijuana, adult use marijuana is subject to more restrictions.
Adult use marijuana can only be purchased from licensed dispensaries, which are regulated by the Michigan Marijuana Regulatory Agency (MRA). Adults can purchase and possess up to 2.5 ounces of marijuana in public and up to 10 ounces in their home. They can also grow up to 12 marijuana plants for personal use, as long as the plants are kept in a locked area that is not visible from the outside.
One of the key differences between medical marijuana and adult use marijuana rules in Michigan is that adult use marijuana is subject to a 10% excise tax and a 6% sales tax. Medical marijuana, on the other hand, is subject only to the 6% sales tax.
Another difference between the two forms of marijuana usage is that medical marijuana patients have legal protection against discrimination in employment, housing, and education. Adult use marijuana users do not have such protection.
Which One to Choose?
Deciding whether to use medical or adult use marijuana depends on your personal situation. If you have a qualifying medical condition and your physician recommends the use of medical marijuana, then getting a medical marijuana card can provide you with legal protection and higher possession limits.
On the other hand, if you don’t have a medical condition but want to use marijuana for recreational purposes, adult use marijuana may be the way to go. However, keep in mind that it is subject to more restrictions and taxes than medical marijuana.
Both medical and adult use marijuana are legal in Michigan, but the rules surrounding the two forms of usage are different. Understanding these differences can help you make an informed decision about which form of marijuana usage is right for you.
Cannabis Licensing Law
Have you been denied a medical marijuana card or do you require assistance with the application process? Look no further than Cannabis Licensing Law – our expert team is ready and available to provide you with the support and guidance you need. Don’t hesitate to contact us today.
