We totally get it! Everyone uses marijuana for different reasons. But, did you know that medical marijuana in Arizona is a whole lot better than recreational pots?
Today, residents of Arizona, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about recreational vs. medical marijuana in Arizona. And, we’ll cover exactly why getting an Arizona medical marijuana card is a gold mine.
The Difference: Recreational vs. Medical Marijuana in Arizona.
Well, the state of Arizona has two very different types of marijuana laws. The first set of laws pertains to medical marijuana, while the second set of laws pertains to recreational marijuana.
And these laws create differences between the two types of smokers and even the taxes they pay.
Let’s dive in.
Is Recreational Marijuana Legal in Arizona?
Arizona’s Prop 207, passed in November 2020, legalizes the recreational use of cannabis. The first retail sales of adult-use weed are expected to start in April 2021.
Is Medical Marijuana Legal in Arizona? Yes!
Medical cannabis has been legal in Arizona since voters approved the Arizona Medical Marijuana Act (AMMA) in 2010. The program’s regulations are overseen by the Arizona Department of Health Services. Adults 21 and older who are diagnosed with a qualifying medical condition may register for the program.
Smoking marijuana in public places is not allowed in Arizona.
Differences Between Recreational and Medical Marijuana
#1 Technical Difference with Recreational Marijuana Arizona
There are a few key differences between recreational and medical marijuana.
- Recreational marijuana is typically sold in lower quantities than medical marijuana.
- The price per gram is usually higher for recreational marijuana.
- Medical marijuana is typically sold in child-resistant packaging, while recreational marijuana is not.
Recreational marijuana is typically used for its psychoactive effects, while medical marijuana treats specific medical conditions.
Medical marijuana typically contains higher levels of CBD, while recreational marijuana typically contains higher levels of THC.
In some states, medical marijuana is only legal for certain qualifying medical conditions, while recreational marijuana is legal for all adults.
#2) In terms of Taxes
There are a few key differences between recreational and medical marijuana in terms of tax.
Medical marijuana is typically subject to lower taxes than recreational marijuana.
This is because qualifying medical marijuana patients, use medical cannabis as a therapeutic aid.
Additionally, medical marijuana may be exempt from sales tax in some states, while recreational marijuana is never exempt from sales tax.
Medical marijuana is taxed at 5.6%, the standard Arizona state sales tax rate. However, for recreational cannabis, customers must pay an additional 16% excise tax.
Get your Arizona MMJ Card Online Instantly.
If you are a resident of Arizona and you are looking for a way to use medical marijuana then consider applying for a MMJ card online. We get it! There are so many different things to think about when going through the application process, from doctors, to legal review, to filling out all of your personal information.
Medical Marijuana Evaluations helps make the process of getting your very own medical marijuana card online as easy as 1-2-3.
Simply fill out your personal details in the online application form and submit it here–presto! A licensed medical professional will review your application, and if approved, you can get your authorization letter instantly emailed to you.
How to Purchase Medical Cannabis in Arizona
If you’re a qualified medical cannabis patient in Arizona, buying medical cannabis is pretty simple. Before purchasing medical cannabis, you must be registered with the Arizona Medical Marijuana Registry (AMMR) and have a medical cannabis patient card.
If you’re a qualifying patient, you may purchase up to 2.5 ounces of weed every 2 weeks. You may visit either a state-licensed dispensary or a state-licensed medical marijuana pharmacy.
The state doesn’t allow patients to grow their own weed at home. The only exceptions are if a medical marijuana dispensary is not located within 25 miles of your home or if you have a “hardship” certification from a state-licensed medical marijuana doctor.
How to Purchase Recreational Cannabis in Arizona
Arizona’s recreational cannabis program is still in its infancy, but adult-use sales began in early 2021.
Adults 21 and older may purchase up to 1 ounce of weed, 16 grams of concentrate, or 5 grams of cannabis concentrate for inhalation. They can also buy up to 72 ounces of cannabis-infused products.
The state doesn’t allow adults to grow their weeds at home. The only exceptions are if a retail weed store is not within 25 miles of your home or if you have a “hardship” certification from a state-licensed medical marijuana doctor.
What Makes You Eligible For a Medical Marijuana Card
If you are wondering what makes you eligible for a medical marijuana card in Arizona, you need to understand the requirements. The most important requirement is to have a qualifying medical condition. A medical marijuana card can only be issued to a patient with a medical condition. The medical condition must be severe and cause severe pain, nausea, or other symptoms that significantly limit the ability to conduct one or more major life activities.
The medical condition can be any one of the following:
- Cancer
- Glaucoma
- HIV/AIDS
- Chronic Pain
- Seizures
- Chronic Pain
- Muscle Spasms
- Crohn’s Disease
- Severe Nausea
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
How to Get an Arizona Medical Marijuana Card
If you’re a qualifying patient, you may register with the Arizona Medical Marijuana Program by following this simple process:
The patient must also obtain a medical marijuana card from the Arizona Department of Health Services. The patient must submit an application, provide proof of residency, and pay the application fee. The patient will be issued a medical marijuana card if the application is approved.
The patient must then register with the Arizona Medical Marijuana Program. The patient must submit an application, provide proof of residency, and pay the application fee. The patient will be issued a registration card if the application is approved.
The patient must then obtain a medical marijuana card from a licensed dispensary. The patient must submit an application, provide proof of residency, and pay the application fee. The patient will be issued a medical marijuana card if the application is approved.
They must then use the medical marijuana card at a licensed dispensary. The patient must show the medical marijuana card to the dispensary staff and purchase the medical marijuana. The dispensary staff will then provide the patient with medical marijuana.
Getting an Arizona Medical Marijuana Card.
Now, you know the difference between regular recreational marijuana and medical marijuana, so you can make a more informed decision about your usage. You can also get a medical marijuana card to access medical marijuana that’ll exempt you from taxes that you would have to pay otherwise.