Decriminalize vs. Legalize in the DMV
The DMV area is known for its diverse population, rich history, and progressive cannabis policies. The legality of recreational and medical cannabis varies within the region, and recent legislation has significant changes for DMV residents and people visiting the area.
Staying up on the latest policies is essential because DC, Baltimore, and surrounding areas are interconnected. Whether you are a lifelong resident or visiting the nation’s capital, we have you covered on the latest developments on legal weed in DC, Maryland, and Virginia.
DC has always been one of the leaders in cannabis policies. Since February 26, 2015, possession of marijuana in amounts less than two ounces has been legal. Also, the transfer of marijuana, as long as it is under the legal threshold and no payment is made, is permitted under Initiative 71.
Since 2015, the legal weed industry in Washington DC has evolved. Finding exotic weed for recreational use is no longer done on the black market, but the process is a little different than in other cannabis-friendly cities like Denver, LA, and Seattle.
Medical Marijuana
DC residents can purchase medical marijuana if they have a recommendation from a doctor and a medical card. There are six medical marijuana dispensaries located in Washington DC; the process is similar to other legal markets.
The Medical Marijuana Expansion Emergency Amendment Act of 2014 gives medical patients from other parts of the country access to medical marijuana in DC. Cardholders from all states with programs in 2019 can legally purchase weed from a DC medical dispensary.
In 2020, the residents of DC passed Initiative 81, the Entheogenic Plants and Fungus Policy Act. The progressive policy categorizes psychedelics drug crimes as the ‘lowest enforcement priority for the police operating in the DC metro.
While DC is historically a leader in cannabis policy, medical marijuana was passed way back in 1996, the federal status of the city keeps the legal cannabis industry from expanding.
Buying and selling weed recreationally remains illegal in DC. You won’t find dispensaries open to the population in the nation’s capital because of federal restrictions and drug classifications. However, weed is available to adults without a medical marijuana card through DC’s I-71 gifting services.
Weed Delivery DC
Initiative 71 allows amounts of weed under two ounces to be transferred between adults. The law permits deliveries, meet-up appointments, and curbside pickup for cannabis products. Both residents and tourists are eligible for these services. Visit our DC weed delivery FAQ for more information.
Cannabis Laws in Maryland
As you move around the DMV (especially if you have significant amounts of weed), you need to be aware of the changing cannabis policies. An ounce of weed won’t lead to any criminal charges or even confiscation in DC, but a quick trip to Baltimore with a legally gifted pack could lead to a hefty fine or even an arrested.
Marijuana is decriminalized in Maryland but only for amounts under 10 grams. An initiative to legalize recreational marijuana was turned down in 2020, so don’t expect any legal weed spots to open up any time soon.
Medical marijuana in Maryland has been legal since 2014. Residents have access to medical dispensaries but aren’t permitted to grow their own cannabis at home.
Cannabis Laws in Virginia
Currently, the weed laws in VA are similar to Maryland, but some changes are going into effect. The legislation was passed to legalize recreational marijuana on April 7, 2021, but retail stores won’t be available until 2024. Starting July 1, adult residents of Virginia can legally possess an ounce.
Legal weed isn’t as accessible in the DMV as on the West Coast, but progress is being made. DC’s recreational marijuana industry is currently limited because of federal laws, but we hope to see changes made by the new administration once we put the pandemic behind us.
DC’s cannabis laws aren’t ideal, but that doesn’t mean we don’t have access to highly potent exotic weed at our fingertips. Check out our vetted menu from the retailers around DC consistently offering fire cannabis products.
The cannabis laws in DC have opened up unique opportunities for entrepreneurs around the city. Lucky Chuckie Tours offers residents and tourists a cannabis experience exclusive to the nation’s capital. Enjoy a one-of-kind tour of the major destinations around DC while discreetly riding around in a 420-friendly unmarked van.
Lucky Chuckie Tours is the go-to cannabis experience on the East Coast this summer. Our patrons are greeted with a gift upon arrival and have the option to enjoy our expansive array of cannabis infusions throughout their tour. Be sure to ask about our infused drinks and potato chips.
A trip to DC is an unforgettable experience best enjoyed with the help of a local cannabis enthusiast. Make Lucky Chuckie your tour guide the next time you are in the area.
If you have any questions about the cannabis laws in DC, Maryland, or Virginia, don’t hesitate to contact us.
