"When I needed my medical marijuana certification, I turned to the Sanctuary. They made the entire process so easy and I was able to submit my registration to the DOH with no problem and, most importantly, no judgment. Thank you!"
If you have a valid Massachusetts medical marijuana card, it is legal to possess and consume medical marijuana. Patients with a medical marijuana card in Massachusetts are allowed to possess up to 10 ounces of marijuana flower and 5 grams of concentrate. Patients can also grow up to 12 plants at a time.
The Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission oversees medical marijuana distribution to Massachusetts residents.
If you live in Massachusetts and want to apply for a medical marijuana card, you should go to the Massachusetts Medical Use of Marijuana Program's website to learn more about the application process. There is a medical cannabis card application form that you can fill out and submit there.
As part of the registration process, you will need to provide proof of residency. Proof of residency can be provided in the form of a driver's license, state ID card, or passport. A photo ID will be required as well.
You can appoint a personal caregiver to apply for a card on your behalf if you're a minor (under 18 years old) or otherwise unable to do so yourself.
You will be able to purchase and use marijuana for medical purposes if you are approved for a medical marijuana card. You can have up to 10 ounces of marijuana and grow up to 12 marijuana plants in Massachusetts. Most importantly, new patients are given access to state-licensed medical marijuana dispensaries where they can make their first legal cannabis purchases.
The Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission oversees regulating marijuana sales across the commonwealth and the issuing of licenses to the MTCs across the commonwealth.
There are a number of dispensaries available to qualifying patients across Massachusetts and the greater New England region. You can view more statistical data on Massachusetts medical marijuana sales and MTCs here. Some of the most popular MTCs are listed below:
According to MA marijuana laws, registered patients and caregivers in Massachusetts can purchase 10 ounces, or a 60-day supply, of medical marijuana from any state-licensed MTC. However, the patient's certifying health care provider can specify a higher amount on their certificate.
Patients who qualify for a medical cannabis card must have a "serious medical condition," according to the Medical Cannabis Act.
The following are state-approved conditions that qualify patients:
If you live in Massachusetts and want to get a medical marijuana card, you'll need to find a healthcare professional who can certify your eligibility for it. The Massachusetts Medical Marijuana Doctor & Patient Registry is the most convenient way to find a doctor. This website allows you to look for doctors by specialty or location.
You'll need to make an appointment once you've found a doctor. The doctor will evaluate your medical condition and determine whether you are eligible for a medical marijuana card during your appointment. The doctor will give you a certification form if you are approved. To apply for an MMJ card, you'll need that form.
Medical cardholders and recreational users are subject to the same public consumption laws. You cannot consume marijuana in public places in Massachusetts.
Smoking, vaping, and taking edibles are all illegal in public or on federal lands, including parks, cafes, and public transportation. The civil penalty for consuming cannabis in public is up to $100.
Cities and towns can pass ordinances allowing sites for public consumption. Check with your local government to find communal use sites in your area. Landlords and employers can ban marijuana use on their premises. Even if you have a marijuana registration card, you are still subject to private businesses and property owners’ policies.
Operating a motor vehicle under the influence of cannabis is illegal. Law enforcement can arrest individuals with probable cause based on mere suspicion of them being under the influence of marijuana. There is currently no field test for marijuana intoxication.
You should not drive after consuming any amount of marijuana because officers determine what intoxication entails based on their own judgment. Plan your treatment around times you don't have to drive or rely on public transit and ride shares. Also, remember that cannabis is still a controlled substance under federal law, meaning you can be prosecuted for possessing it if you transport it across state lines.
In addition, open containers of marijuana are prohibited in the passenger area of a vehicle. Cannabis must be in a sealed container, stored in a locked glove compartment, or placed in the trunk during transport. This violation is punished with a civil penalty of up to $500.
You must provide the following information to obtain a medical marijuana card in Massachusetts: your name, date of birth, address, and phone number. A driver's license, U.S. passport, utility bill, or state ID will also be required as proof of Massachusetts residency. Not only that, but you'll be asked to upload a passport-style photo to confirm your identity when you apply online.
Finally, the state will charge you a $50.00 application fee.
To be eligible for a medical card in Massachusetts, you must suffer from at least one of the state's qualifying conditions. Cancer, glaucoma, HIV/AIDS, hepatitis C, Crohn's Disease, Parkinson's Disease, or any other serious condition deemed treatable with medical marijuana by a licensed physician can make you eligible for Massachusetts medical marijuana.
You must see a licensed physician who has been certified by the Department of Public Health to administer medical marijuana certifications in order to be certified for medical marijuana in Massachusetts. They will be able to assess your situation and determine whether you qualify for an MMJ card. They may have a waiting list or a referral system, so make sure to contact them ahead of time.
A Massachusetts medical marijuana card remains valid for one year from the date of its issuance.
You cannot apply for a medical marijuana card in Massachusetts if you live in another state. You must be a resident of Massachusetts to be eligible for a medical marijuana card.
For the convenience of qualifying patients, a number of dispensaries are located throughout Massachusetts. Northampton, Boston, and Salem are among the most popular destinations. Check out the map on the state's official website if you're looking for a dispensary near you.
Patients who use medical marijuana in Massachusetts can do so at dispensaries, at home, and in certain public places. The list of public places where medical marijuana patients can consume medical marijuana is still being updated, so do your research before smoking in a public place in Massachusetts.