If you live in a legal state then congratulations on having on-demand access to cannabis products! Life is so much simpler when you can walk into a shop and be in and out in fifteen minutes. If you live in an illegal state, however, it gets more complicated.
I Can Buy Weed Online — Right?
You can certainly go on the internet and look at your favorite online smoke shop, and if you’re 18 or older, can buy glassware and smoking devices online. But the short answer is no. Marijuana is still considered a Schedule I dangerous drug in the United States (in the same ranking as heroin), so mail-order cannabis is a felony. Even in legal states, sending product through the mail will not be done by legitimate dispensaries. The legal ramifications simply aren’t worth it for the sender or the receiver.
What About Medical Marijuana?
Nope, sorry. If you live in an illegal state there is no legal way for you to access marijuana online. It’s a hard pill to swallow if you are a sufferer of chronic illness, and understandably frustrating. There are 17 US states that allow the purchase of the product using out-of-state medical cards, but unfortunately, that is not enough in states that have not yet legalized it.
If I Travel to a Legal State, Can I Bring Cannabis to an Illegal State?
As far as the US government is concerned, no. Bringing product over state lines is federally illegal. If you are caught doing so, you will be punished and could end up with a felony on your record for the rest of your life. Educated users must decide if that type of risk is worth it. The safest choice is always to follow your local laws.
When Will These Laws Change?
No matter what your feelings are on this debate, it is the way of the country right now. If you are frustrated and wish to see a change, get involved in your local legislature and do something about it. The United States is a democratic country and the people have a voice too. Use yours to get these laws overturned and brought into the 21st century.
Understand the legalities associated with cannabis use in your state before making any choices. Recreational use likely has a while before it is legal on a federal level, so keep yourself informed of your local laws. Using cannabis responsibly is key.
