Is Weed Legal in Alabama?

Medical Cannabis Program

The medical cannabis program in Alabama was established with the passage of the Compassion Act in May 2021. This legislation allows patients with qualifying medical conditions to access cannabis for therapeutic purposes. The program is regulated by the Alabama Medical Cannabis Commission, which oversees the licensing of dispensaries, cultivators, and other entities involved in the medical cannabis supply chain.

Qualifying Conditions

• Cancer
• Multiple sclerosis
• Parkinson's disease
• HIV/AIDS
• Epilepsy
• Chronic pain
• PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder)
• Severe nausea
• Severe weight loss
• Any other condition deemed appropriate by a licensed physician

How to Get a Medical Card

1. See a licensed physician who is registered with the Alabama Medical Cannabis Commission.
2. Apply to the state registry through the Alabama Medical Cannabis Commission's online portal.
3. Pay an application fee, which is typically around $65.
4. Receive your medical cannabis card, usually within 30 days of application approval.

Card Validity & Renewal

Medical cannabis cards in Alabama are valid for one year from the date of issuance. To renew the card, patients must go through a similar process as the initial application, which includes a consultation with a licensed physician and payment of the renewal fee, which is generally the same as the initial application fee. Patients should begin the renewal process at least 30 days before their card expires to avoid any lapse in access.

Purchase & Possession Limits

Patients with a valid medical cannabis card in Alabama are allowed to purchase up to 70 daily doses of medical cannabis products within a 30-day period. The specific amount of cannabis in grams may vary depending on the form of the product, but typically it is limited to a maximum of 2.5 ounces (approximately 70 grams) of usable cannabis per month. Patients are also allowed to possess up to 2.5 ounces of medical cannabis at any given time.

Allowed Forms

In Alabama, medical cannabis can be obtained in several forms, including:

• Flower (dried cannabis)
• Concentrates
• Edibles
• Topicals
• Capsules
• Oils

However, the use of raw cannabis for smoking is not permitted under the current regulations.

Where to Buy

Medical cannabis can be purchased at licensed dispensaries throughout Alabama. As of now, there are approximately 30 licensed dispensaries operating in the state. Patients can locate dispensaries through the Alabama Medical Cannabis Commission's official website, which provides a list of all licensed facilities along with their contact information and operating hours.

Recreational Status

Recreational use of cannabis remains illegal in Alabama. Possession of cannabis for non-medical purposes can lead to criminal charges, including fines and potential jail time. Penalties for possession can vary, but typically, possession of less than 2.5 ounces can result in a misdemeanor charge, with fines up to $6,000 and possible imprisonment for up to one year.

Future Outlook

As of October 2023, there are ongoing discussions regarding potential legislation for the legalization of recreational cannabis in Alabama. While no specific ballot measures have been officially proposed, advocacy groups are actively working to promote the benefits of legalization. The future of recreational cannabis in Alabama remains uncertain, but public opinion appears to be shifting towards more favorable views on cannabis use.