In Pennsylvania, the landscape of cannabis laws has seen significant shifts, paralleling the broader changes in the United States. From initial strict prohibitions to a growing acceptance of medical cannabis, the journey of Pennsylvania's cannabis lawsis intriguing.
Join us as we delve into the dynamic realm of cannabis regulations, uncovering details about possession restrictions, cultivation guidelines, penalties, and the intricate pathways for accessing and distributing cannabis within the state.
Cannabis is legal for medical use in Pennsylvania for those with a state-issued medical card.
Recreational users can possess up toa 90 day supply according to doctor’s prescription.
There are penalties for possessing more than the allowable amount of cannabis, for unlicensed sales, and for consuming in public spaces.
Is Cannabis Legal in Pennsylvania?
In Pennsylvania, medical marijuana has been legal since April 17, 2016, following the signing of Senate Bill 3. Recreational marijuana, however, remains illegal statewide, although certain cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh have decriminalized possession of small amounts.
The Medical Marijuana Act permits registered patients to use cannabis for qualifying medical conditions, with approval from a registered physician. Minors with serious medical conditions can access medical marijuana through registered caregivers.
Patients, holding valid medical cards, are allowed a 90-day supply recommended by pharmacists at licensed dispensaries. Smoking marijuana is illegal, but consumption via vaporization is permitted. Exceeding prescribed amounts or possessing cannabis without registration can result in criminal penalties under state law.
Regulations for Medical Use
In Pennsylvania, medical cannabis is legal for those with a medical card. There are still laws and limits to follow, including that medical card holders may:
Use medical cannabis as prescribed by registered physicians.
Use cannabis if under the age of 21 when recommended by a physician. Minors must establish a registered caregivers to buy and distribute cannabis.
Buy and possess a 90-day supply of cannabis based on their doctor’s prescription.
Travel with cannabis, within specified limits, in a vehicle as long as it is in a closed containers that is in an area that’s out of reach to the passengers, such as in the trunk.
Consume cannabis in a private residence or approved medical facility.
Qualifying Conditions for Medical Cannabis in Pennsylvania
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
Anxiety disorders
Autism
Cancer, including remission therapy
Chronic Hepatitis C
Crohn’s disease
Dyskinetic and spastic movement disorders
Epilepsy
Glaucoma
HIV / AIDS
Huntington’s disease
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
Intractable seizures
Multiple sclerosis (MS)
Neurodegenerative diseases
Neuropathies
Opioid use disorder for which conventional medical interventions are ineffective
Parkinson’s disease
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Severe chronic or intractable pain
Sickle cell anemia
Terminal illness
Tourette syndrome
Restrictions
In Pennsylvania, medical cannabis is legal for registered patients with qualifying conditions. However, there are strict regulations:
Only registered patients with specific medical conditions can use medical cannabis.
Minors can use it through caregivers but cannot access it directly.
Home cultivation of cannabis is prohibited.
Transporting cannabis across state lines is considered drug trafficking, even to cannabis-friendly states.
Driving under the influence of cannabis is illegal.
Consumption is restricted to private homes where minors aren't present.
Smoking cannabis in areas where smoking is banned (like bars, restaurants, public buildings) is prohibited.
Consumption is forbidden on federal property and within specific distances of schools or playgrounds.
Pennsylvania Cannabis Laws
Recreational Cannabis:
Illegal. SB473 seeks to establish the Cannabis Regulatory Control Board for future legalization.
Medical Cannabis:
Section 405: Patients can access a 90-day supply of medical marijuana.
Section 502B: Caregivers need background checks; restrictions on drug-related convictions.
Section 609: Permission for relocation of medical marijuana organizations.
Section 614: Restrictions for individuals with certain convictions.
Section 902: Allocation of funds from taxes and fees.
Section 1107: Criminal penalties for the diversion of medical marijuana.
Section 1307: Disclosure of medical marijuana information prohibited.
Section 2002: Approval and regulations for clinical registrants.
Pennsylvania remains illegal for recreational cannabis, while medical use is permitted with stringent regulations and ongoing legislative discussions for potential expansions.
Penalties for Marijuana-related Crimes in Pennsylvania
Possession
30 grams or less of flower / 8 grams or less of hashish: Misdemeanor, 30 days jail and/or $500 fine.
More than 30 grams of flower / more than 8 grams of hashish:Misdemeanor, 6 – 12 months incarceration, $5,000 fine.
Delivering paraphernalia to a minor (3+ years younger): Second-degree misdemeanor, 2 years, $5,000 fine.
Legal Cannabis and Buy Online Alternatives
Although cannabis is legal in many states, hemp-derived THC products are still rising as a noteworthy alternative thanks to their affordability and accessibility. Hemp-derived THC products are federally legal, unlike traditional marijuana products, meaning they can often be ordered online and shipped right to your door.
