Cannabis has been legal for recreational use in New York Cannabis Training since the passage of the Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act in March 2021. This act legalized the recreational possession, use, cultivation, and sale of cannabis products for individuals aged 21 and over. With this new law, New York is now one of 15 states across the country to have legalized recreational cannabis. It is important to understand what this means for residents of the state and how it affects access to cannabis products.
Cannabis Laws in New York State
Under the new law, adults aged 21 or older are allowed to possess up to three ounces (or 85 grams) of cannabis at a time. This includes any form of cannabis that can be smoked or vaped. Individuals may also possess up to 24 grams of concentrate and five grams of concentrate wax. Those who are caught with more than these amounts will face criminal penalties. Additionally, individuals are not permitted to use cannabis while operating a motor vehicle or boat, or while on school grounds or other public property.
Accessibility & Regulations
The new law creates a regulated system for retail sales and taxation of cannabis products in New York State. Licensed retailers must follow strict guidelines set by the state’s Department of Health when selling cannabis products. These regulations include requiring all retailers to check ID before making any sales; prohibiting sales within 500 feet of schools; limiting daily sales per customer; ensuring proper labeling on all products; and prohibiting sales from 10 pm – 6 am EST each day. In addition, consumers will only be able to pay for their purchases with cash as debit/credit cards cannot be used due to federal banking regulations. Finally, taxes on retail sales will vary by county but are expected to generate $350 million annually for New York State’s general fund.
Medical Marijuana vs Recreational Marijuana
Although medical marijuana has been legal in New York since 2014, there are still some key differences between medical marijuana and recreational marijuana laws in the state. Medical marijuana requires patients to obtain a doctor’s certification before they can purchase any products from a dispensary; recreational users do not need any certification or approval before they can purchase products legally from a retailer. Additionally, medical marijuana patients are allowed larger quantities than what is available under the new law–up to eight ounces possession limit–and they do not have to pay taxes on their purchases like those purchasing recreationally would have to do so under the MRTA act passed earlier this year.. Lastly, while both types of users are subject to similar age restrictions (21+), medical marijuana patients may be able access their medication at an earlier age if they receive special permission from their doctor due to extenuating circumstances such as disability or chronic illness that might require them access sooner than 21 years old..
The passage of the MRTA act marks an exciting milestone for residents living in New York State who wish access legal cannabis products without fear of repercussions from local authorities . With tight regulations surrounding production and sale , along with different rules pertaining medical versus recreational users , it’s important that everyone understands how these changes affect them . Now that cannabis is legal , residents should take advantage responsibly by educating themselves about local laws , checking IDs when necessary , paying attention product labels , and always using common sense when consuming . With these tips in mind , we hope everyone enjoys exploring all that legal cannabis has offer!
