In April 2023, the Louisiana Department of Health established a comprehensive Cannabis Program. This program includes sections for both consumable hemp products and medical marijuana, reflecting the evolving landscape of cannabis regulation in Louisiana.
The program’s mandate involves stringent oversight, including the inspection of medical marijuana production facilities and the verification of finished product test results. This ensures compliance with health and safety standards. For patients participating in Louisiana’s state-sponsored medical marijuana program, legal possession of medical marijuana is permitted in forms specified under R.S. 40:1046.
Recent legal developments have further shaped the cannabis policy in Louisiana. As of January 1, 2023, only products approved by the Louisiana Department of Health are permitted for sale, with strict enforcement against misleading advertising of “legal THC products.” Violation of these regulations can lead to severe regulatory consequences.
Additionally, a significant change came into effect on July 1, 2023. Adults aged 21 or older can now legally possess and consume up to 1.5 ounces of cannabis flower, 12 grams of concentrated cannabis, or a total amount of cannabis products not exceeding 750 mg THC. This delineation is referred to as the “personal use amount,” marking a notable shift in Louisiana’s approach to cannabis consumption.
In the broader context, federal and state policies on cannabis continue to diverge. The Federal Status of Marijuana report highlights this expanding policy gap, especially concerning medical marijuana laws. Federal appropriations riders have historically barred the Department of Justice from taking legal action against states for implementing medical marijuana laws.
For Louisiana residents seeking access to medical marijuana, dispensaries can provide approved dosages upon receiving a valid recommendation from a board-certified Louisiana physician. For further information or inquiries about Louisiana’s medical marijuana program, individuals can contact the Department of Health.
In addition to these developments, legislative actions such as HB270 by Representative Willard aim to address urban issues like weed cutting in Orleans Parish, demonstrating the broader scope of legislative activities in the state.
For more detailed information on Louisiana’s cannabis policies and regulations, visit the Louisiana Department of Health Cannabis Program, the Louisiana State Legislature, and the ATC Advisory on CBD & Consumable Hemp Enforcement.
