Getting a medical marijuana card can be life-changing for many people; however, it does come with limitations. Although it provides you with legal permission to use marijuana products for medical purposes, there are some legal downsides to getting a medical marijuana card, including travel restrictions, employment restrictions, and firearm restrictions. Understanding the cons of having a medical marijuana card can help you make an informed decision and avoid legal consequences if you decide to get a card. In this article, we’ll break down the legal risks of using a medical marijuana card to purchase and consume marijuana products and explore the ways in which you can protect yourself from legal penalties.
If you’re thinking of getting a medical marijuana card, you’re probably wondering if there are any disadvantages to having one and using it to consume marijuana products. Despite having several undeniable benefits, the use of medical marijuana poses certain legal risks that need to be understood properly. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the legal risks associated with using a medical marijuana card to purchase and use medical marijuana:
Even if state law allows you to take medical marijuana legally after getting a medical marijuana card, the federal government doesn’t.
According to federal law, marijuana consumption is illegal. Federal agencies can charge individuals if they are caught using medical marijuana on federal property, including military bases and federal buildings. Under federal law, marijuana possession is punishable by a prison sentence or a fine, even if you have a medical marijuana card.
Here’s how using medical marijuana can affect your federal benefits:
If you are a medical marijuana card user, it can complicate your current employment situation and interfere with employment opportunities. Even though medical marijuana is legal in most states, many workplaces forbid their employees from using medical marijuana on the job.
Most workplaces enforce drug-free working policies. If you test positive for marijuana, regardless of whether or not you have a medical marijuana card, you risk losing your job. For example, if you are working in education or healthcare, you may lose your job for using medical marijuana even if you have a qualifying health condition. Federal employees and transportation workers are also subject to strict rules surrounding marijuana use.
The legalities of traveling with medical marijuana need to be understood properly to avoid legal complications. Even if you have a medical marijuana card, you can be penalized for traveling with medical marijuana.
According to federal law, it’s illegal to transport marijuana across state lines. Even if state law allows medical marijuana use, federal law overrides it. For example, if you are driving from California to Nevada with medical marijuana, you could face penalties under federal law.
Airports and airlines follow TSA guidelines, meaning you can’t bring medical marijuana on a flight. Even if you have a medical marijuana card, it won’t protect you from federal enforcement in airports.
It’s illegal to drive any vehicle under the influence of THC. If you’re caught driving with THC in your system, you will be charged with DUI. Even if you don’t feel cognitively impaired, the presence of THC in your system will get you arrested.
If you are using medical marijuana and own a gun, you can be criminally charged under federal law. Here’s what federal and state law says about medical marijuana and firearms:
Federal law prohibits medical marijuana users from purchasing and owning firearms. Many states rely on the FBI to carry out background checks on individuals applying to purchase firearms. If you claim to be using medical marijuana in your background check, you will not be granted permission to purchase firearms. On the other hand, lying about not using medical marijuana can lead to felony charges.
Even in states where medical marijuana consumption is legalized, federal laws take precedence. In certain states, like Hawaii, the police force has required citizens with medical marijuana cards to surrender their firearms.
Having a medical marijuana card can provide many benefits, but it’s important to be fully aware of the associated risks and limitations before applying for one. Careful planning can help you manage the drawbacks of having a medical marijuana card. Here are some simple ways to minimize the legal risks of having and using a medical marijuana card:
Laws are constantly changing, which is why it’s important to stay up-to-date on the latest changes to legislation surrounding medical marijuana possession and use. Monitoring changes in state and federal laws can help you avoid legal penalties for non-compliance.
Medical marijuana can have a number of health benefits when used responsibly. However, when taken in excess, medical marijuana products that contain psychoactive ingredients can impair your judgment and threaten your safety, as well as the safety of those around you. For this reason, you should only take the amount of THC recommended by dispensary professionals and ensure that you are in a safe environment when under the influence.
Consulting with a legal expert can help you gain a better understanding of the risks and limitations that come with having a medical marijuana card. Deciphering the plethora of state and federal laws surrounding medical marijuana use can be challenging; hiring a legal expert can simplify the process and minimize the likelihood of legal misunderstandings.
Navigating the legal complexities of using medical marijuana can feel overwhelming, but Elevated Health MD is here to guide you through the application process. Our healthcare professionals can provide you with personalized advice on obtaining your medical marijuana card. We ensure that our clients are aware of the legalities surrounding medical marijuana usage so that they can make informed decisions. Schedule an appointment with us today to get your medical marijuana card!
Before applying, make sure you meet the medical marijuana card age requirements to avoid any legal complications.
Yes, you can be arrested for marijuana possession even if you have a medical marijuana card, depending on the circumstances. Although state laws may protect cardholders, marijuana is still illegal under federal law, and those found in possession of medical marijuana on federal property will be arrested.
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