The legal landscape surrounding marijuana use in the United States is complex and varies from state to state. This article provides an overview of some of the key laws and regulations governing marijuana use across various states.
The Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board outlines that many retail cannabis stores only accept cash. It is illegal to consume cannabis in public view and driving under the influence of cannabis, with more than 5 nanograms of active THC per milliliter of blood, is strictly prohibited.
According to a statement from President Biden on marijuana reform, federal law currently classifies marijuana in Schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act, which is the classification for the most dangerous substances. This places marijuana in the same category as heroin.
In China, the Final Seed Law was published, which strengthens the protection of legal rights of owners of new plant varieties and establishes a system for this. However, this law does not directly relate to the legal status of marijuana in the United States.
In Minnesota, full decriminalization will begin on August 1, 2023, allowing individuals 21 and older to possess, use, and grow cannabis at home, as per the State of Minnesota – Office of Cannabis Management.
Colorado’s cannabis laws permit adults over 21 to buy and possess up to 1 ounce of marijuana. Only licensed retailers can sell marijuana products.
The Texas Medical Marijuana program allows low-THC cannabis for medical purposes, with THC content not exceeding 0.5% by weight.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention explain various ways marijuana can be consumed, including smoking, edibles, and drinks.
In Texas, low-THC cannabis, containing less than 1% by weight of THC, is legal for medical use in any form except smoking, as stated in the Texas Legal FAQs.
In Washington D.C., marijuana possession by persons under 21 is illegal. Initiative 71 did not change this law, as highlighted by the Metropolitan Police Department.
Lastly, the Transportation Security Administration states that marijuana and certain cannabis-infused products remain illegal under federal law, except for products with no more than 0.3 percent THC or those approved by the FDA.
This overview demonstrates the diverse and evolving nature of marijuana laws across different jurisdictions in the United States.