Medical Marijuana Laws and Safety Regulations in Arkansas

Is Medical Marijuana Legal in Arkansas?

No, medical marijuana is not legal in Arkansas. However, medical cannabis was approved by ballot measure in November 2016, and the Arkansas Medical Marijuana Amendment officially went into effect in 2019.

What Are The Qualifying Conditions For Medical Marijuana in Arkansas?

The qualifying conditions for medical marijuana in Arkansas are:

1. Cancer

2. Glaucoma

3. Positive status for Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)/Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS)

4. Hepatitis C

5. Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)

6. Tourette’s Syndrome

7. Crohn’s Disease

8. Ulcerative Colitis

9. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

10. Severe Arthritis

11. Fibromyalgia

12. Alzheimer’s Disease

13. Cachexia or Wasting Syndrome

14. Peripheral Neuropathy
15. Intractable Pain, which is pain that has not responded to ordinary medications, treatment or surgical measures for more than six (6) months

How Do I Get A Medical Marijuana Card in Arkansas?

In order to obtain a medical marijuana card in Arkansas, you must first obtain an authorization from a state-licensed physician. After obtaining an authorization from a physician, you must then complete an application and submit required supporting documentation to the Arkansas Department of Health Medical Marijuana Program. Once your application is approved, you will be issued a medical marijuana card.

What Is The Process For Applying For A Medical Marijuana Card in Arkansas?

The process of applying for a medical marijuana card in Arkansas is outlined by the Arkansas Department of Health. The first step is to obtain a valid written certification from a licensed physician stating that you have been diagnosed with one of the qualifying conditions for medical marijuana in Arkansas. These conditions include: Cancer, glaucoma, HIV/AIDS, cachexia (wasting syndrome), persistent muscle spasms, seizures, and severe nausea. Once you have obtained your valid written certification, you can then fill out an application for a medical marijuana card with the ADH. You will need to provide proof of identity and residency, as well as a doctor’s recommendation. Once your application is approved, you will be issued a medical marijuana card that must be renewed every year.

Where Can I Find A List Of Licensed Medical Marijuana Dispensaries in Arkansas?

Unfortunately, there is no readily available list of licensed medical marijuana dispensaries in Arkansas. The state has recently begun the process of issuing licenses for dispensaries, but the applications are still under review. The best way to find out more about the application process and the dispensaries that may be approved is to contact the Arkansas Medical Marijuana Commission directly.

What Are The Possession Limits For Medical Marijuana in Arkansas?

The possession limit for medical cannabis in Arkansas is 2.5 ounces of usable marijuana every 14 days. A qualifying patient may possess up to four (4) mature marijuana plants, no more than twelve (12) immature marijuana plants, and no more than two and one-half (2.5) ounces of usable marijuana at any given time.

Can I Grow My Own Medical Marijuana in Arkansas?

No, it is not legal to grow medical marijuana in Arkansas. According to Arkansas state law, it is illegal for individuals to cultivate marijuana for any purpose. It is only legal for licensed dispensaries to cultivate medical marijuana for medical purposes.

How Do Medical Marijuana Laws Affect Employment And Drug Testing in Arkansas?

Medical marijuana laws in Arkansas have not yet been established. However, it is important to note that employers in the state are allowed to enforce their own drug testing policies and to take action against employees who break those policies. This means that employers may continue to perform drug tests and discipline or terminate employees who test positive for marijuana, even if the employee has a valid medical marijuana card from another state. Additionally, employees may still be legally required to pass a drug test in order to be offered employment.

Are There Age Restrictions For Medical Marijuana Patients in Arkansas?

Yes, there are age restrictions for medical marijuana patients in Arkansas. In order to be approved for a medical marijuana card, applicants must be 18 years of age or older. Those under 18 but suffering from certain qualifying conditions may be approved if two physicians recommend medical marijuana use and the patient’s parent or legal guardian gives written consent.

What Forms Of Medical Marijuana Are Available in Arkansas?

The Arkansas Medical Marijuana Commission has approved four forms of medical marijuana: dry leaf, edibles, concentrates, and topicals. Patients are allowed to possess up to 2.5 ounces of marijuana in any form every 14 days.

Are There Reciprocity Agreements For Out-Of-State Medical Marijuana Patients in Arkansas?

No, there are no reciprocity agreements for out-of-state medical marijuana patients in Arkansas. Arkansas only allows medical marijuana card holders from the state to purchase and possess cannabis.

What Are The Penalties For Using Or Possessing Medical Marijuana Without A Card in Arkansas?

In Arkansas, it is illegal to possess, cultivate, or distribute marijuana for any purpose. Possessing less than 4 ounces is a misdemeanor offense punishable by up to one year in jail and/or a fine up to $2,500. Possessing more than 4 ounces is a felony offense and may result in a prison sentence of up to six years and/or a fine up to $10,000. Cultivating marijuana is also a felony punishable by up to six years in prison and/or a fine up to $10,000. Distributing marijuana is a felony punishable by up to ten years in prison and/or a fine up to $15,000.

Can I Get A Medical Marijuana Card If I’M Not A Resident in Arkansas?

No, you cannot get a medical marijuana card if you are not a resident of Arkansas. The state only issues medical marijuana cards to Arkansas residents who are diagnosed with certain medical conditions and meet certain criteria.

What Is The Role Of Doctors In Recommending Medical Marijuana in Arkansas?

The role of doctors in recommending medical marijuana in Arkansas is to evaluate patients to determine if they have a qualifying debilitating medical condition. The doctor must also provide written documentation of the patient’s diagnosis and recommendation for cannabis use. Doctors may consult with a specialist or refer the patient to an appropriate medical marijuana facility. A doctor’s recommendation for medical marijuana use must be renewed every 14 months.

Are There Restrictions On Where I Can Use Medical Marijuana in Arkansas?

Yes, medical marijuana can only be used in a private residence and must not be used in public view. It is illegal to possess, use, or transport marijuana in any form on the property of any school, church, or government-owned facility.

Can I Apply For A Medical Marijuana Card Online in Arkansas?

No, you cannot apply for a medical marijuana card online in Arkansas. The state requires you to apply in person at a state-authorized dispensary. To apply for a medical marijuana card in Arkansas, you will need to visit the Arkansas Department of Health and provide proof of your identity, residency, and medical condition.

What Are The Fees Associated With Obtaining A Medical Marijuana Card in Arkansas?

In Arkansas, the fees associated with obtaining a medical marijuana card are as follows:

• Application Fee: $50
• Renewal Fee: $50
• Acquisition Fee: $100 (collected by the dispensary)
• Cultivation Fee: $100 (collected by the dispensary)
• Replacement Card Fee: $25

Do I Have To Notify My Employer If I Have A Medical Marijuana Card in Arkansas?

No, you do not have to notify your employer if you have a medical marijuana card in Arkansas. The state’s medical marijuana program is confidential and employers are prohibited from discriminating against an individual based on their status as a qualifying patient in the program.

Can Medical Marijuana Patients Purchase Firearms in Arkansas?

No, medical marijuana patients in Arkansas are not allowed to purchase firearms in the state. Federal law prohibits anyone who is an “unlawful user” of any controlled substance (including marijuana) from owning or possessing firearms or ammunition.

What Legal Protections Do Medical Marijuana Patients Have in Arkansas?

Medical marijuana patients in Arkansas have legal protection from arrest and prosecution for possessing and using marijuana for medical purposes provided they meet certain qualifications: they must have a doctor’s recommendation, be registered with the Arkansas Medical Marijuana Commission, and possess less than 2.5 ounces of usable marijuana on their person at any given time. Additionally, the Arkansas Medical Marijuana Amendment of 2016 prohibits employers from discriminating against medical marijuana patients and from refusing to hire a qualified applicant who is a medical marijuana patient.