**Disclaimer: The information in this article regarding cannabinoids is drawn from comprehensive research and we have made every effort to share the most accurate information available at the time of writing. Remember that legal status is handled differently by jurisdiction and these substances can change status over time. The reader is advised to check the status of cannabinoids before acting and we do not accept liability for this information. This content is for educational purposes only.
Although marijuana is considered a Schedule I drug, some states like California, Oregon, and Washington have decided to legalize it for recreational use. In some other states like Montana, Minnesota and Arizona, medical marijuana is legal.
Back in the early 1930's Marijuana was outlawed by 29 states; the government theorized that there was a correlation between crime rates and Mexican immigrants, and these immigrants committed crimes whilst intoxicated by pot. This became the major excuse of the U.S government for outlawing cannabis.
Among the 29 states, Arizona was in favor of these stricter laws due to its proximity to Mexico. However, things are starting to change. Like many other states, Arizona has changed its attitude towards cannabis. If you want to be aware of the current marijuana laws in Arizona and the upcoming changes regarding cannabis in the Grand Canyon state, this article will let you know all about weed in Arizona. It's legal!
Now, why not give something from our garden a try?
Key Takeaways
- Since 1931, recreational use of marijuana has been illegal in Arizona, with possession of up to 2 lbs potentially resulting in up to 2 years in prison, a felony charge, and a maximum fine of $150,000. The severity of the charges varies depending on the purpose of the possession (e.g., personal use, sale, importation, personal production).
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The medical marijuana is legal in Arizona. The decree of the Arizona Medical Marijuana Act (AMMA) was introduced in 2010. It made possible possession and use of marijuana for people, who have medical marijuana ID card provided by a physician, who is licensed by the state. The maximum quantity that can be on any medical cardholder’s possession is 2.5 ounces of marijuana every two weeks. Also, cultivation of not more than 12 plants is allowed at home under specific circumstances.
Arizona Marijuana Laws
In Arizona it has been prohibited since 1931 and its recreational use is still an offence. Having anything up to 2 lbs can earn you a maximum of 2 years in prison, a felony and a maximum fine of $150,000; it all depends on how much weed you have on you.
To have less than 2 lbs of pot is a class 3 felony if it’s imported into the state and a class 4 felony if it’s for sale. You will get a class 5 felony if it’s for personal production and class 6 felony if it is for personal use.
Medical Marijuana Arizona
Fortunately, in Arizona its legally medically marijuana. In 2010 the voters of Arizona passed Proposition 203 which legalized medically marajuana under the Arizona Medical Marijuana Act (AMMA). So do not worry if you have medical marijuana ID card from a doctor’ state license physician then you’re fine or go to jail. In the State of Arizona to get medical card for marijuana you have to be 18 or older and get your legal guardian permission to use if you’re an under 18. You must have a residential address in Arizona for marijuana and you must have an Arizona ID or a driver license.
For 2 year card at the state cost is going to be $150 dollars and the same for food stamp participants(SNAP participants). After seeing a doctor you will know at the end of appointment if you have a qualifying conditions to have this medical marijuana and get a prescription. Some condition that you can be treated for medical illnesses with marijuana in Arizona are:
- Alzheimer’s disease Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) Cancer Crohn’s Disease Glaucoma Hepatitis C HIV/AIDS Post-traumatic stress disorder Seizures, including those characteristic of epilepsy Severe or persistent muscle spasms, including those characteristic of multiple sclerosis
For those fortunate enough to secure an MMJ ID card, the possession limit is set at 2.5 ounces every two weeks. The home cultivation limit also increases to a maximum of 12 plants with the express permission of the ADHS.
Medical marijuana cardholders in Arizona can legally purchase weed from licensed dispensaries; it is against federal law to purchase marijuana or any marijuana-related items from anyone else. It is worth noting that Arizona does not allow recreational marijuana use in public. In fact, the state permits cardholders to ingest medical marijuana in edible form in public so long as they are not simultaneously operating an automobile, or engaging in any other potentially negligent activity.
Arizona Marijuana Legalization
While Arizona remains strict when it comes to cannabis, many movements are starting to work towards a change. In November 2016, prop 205 was passed, which intended to make recreational use legal in the state for adults over the age of 21. However, the bill failed to pass as 51 % voted no and 48% voted yes.
However, the short distance between the yes and no voters has given the Arizona Cannabis Chamber an incentive to try once again. In November 2020, the state will see another marijuana legalization initiative passed through the senate. For this reason, marijuana legalization in Arizona will likely happen soon, joining the other 11 states that have done so.
The new proposal for weed legalization in Arizona lets you grow up to six marijuana plants at home for personal use, with no more than 12 plants growing at a single residence at a time. Users would also have to respect the same facility restrictions as medical marijuana growers, cultivating only in an "enclosed, locked facility." We hope you found this article handy. You might also our guide on the legal ways to buy weed online here.
Sources used for this article:
https://norml.org/laws/arizona-legalization
https://norml.org/laws/arizona-penalties/
https://www.azleg.gov/legtext/56leg/1R/summary/H.SB1466_030623_HHS.DOCX.htm
https://www.azdhs.gov/licensing/medical-marijuana/
https://www.nytimes.com/elections/2016/results/arizona-ballot-measure-205-legalize-marijuana
This article was last updated in March 2024 and the information provided in relation to US federal and state cannabis laws is accurate as of the date provided. Due to the rapidly changing cannabis bill across the state and federal levels in the US, the information herein may become outdated at any time. Additionally, and for the avoidance of doubt, this article is NOT intended to be legal advice and Botany Farms as provided or intended to provide any legal advice, nor is any individual or entity associated with Botany Farms providing legal advice. Please consult official state government websites for current information regarding cannabis laws for your state.
