Is Medical Marijuana Legal in Virginia?
No, medical marijuana is not currently legal in Virginia. The Virginia General Assembly passed a bill in 2019 that would legalize medical cannabis for certain conditions, but the Governor did not sign it into law.
What Are The Qualifying Conditions For Medical Marijuana in Virginia?
In Virginia, the qualifying medical conditions for medical marijuana include: cancer, glaucoma, HIV/AIDS, Crohn’s disease, hepatitis C, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis (MS), intractable epilepsy, and any terminal illness with a prognosis of less than 12 months. Additionally, any condition for which a practitioner has determined that the use of medical marijuana would be beneficial may also qualify.
How Do I Get A Medical Marijuana Card in Virginia?
In Virginia, medical marijuana is legal for certain medical conditions. However, there is no online or local registration process to obtain a medical marijuana card. Patients must be certified by a physician registered with the Virginia Board of Pharmacy in order to be allowed to purchase and use medical cannabis.
What Is The Process For Applying For A Medical Marijuana Card in Virginia?
The process for applying for a medical marijuana card in Virginia is as follows:
1. Get an Evaluation: You will need to obtain a certification from a board-certified physician who is registered with the Virginia Board of Pharmacy and is certified to provide medical marijuana treatments.
2. Complete a Medical Marijuana Application: Once you have the certification from your physician, you must complete the application on the Virginia Department of Health website and submit it is with the required fee.
3. Receive Your Card: Once your application is approved, you will receive your medical marijuana card in the mail. You must then register with a licensed dispensary in order to purchase medical marijuana products.
Where Can I Find A List Of Licensed Medical Marijuana Dispensaries in Virginia?
Unfortunately, there is no current list of licensed medical marijuana dispensaries in Virginia as medical marijuana is not currently legal in the state. However, you can keep an eye out for any changes to the law by monitoring the Virginia General Assembly website.
What Are The Possession Limits For Medical Marijuana in Virginia?
The Virginia Department of Health does not allow the sale of medical marijuana, but it does allow for the possession of up to one ounce of marijuana for medical use by patients with a valid doctor’s recommendation. Patients may possess up to 10 ounces of marijuana flower, one ounce of THC concentrate, and four ounces of marijuana-infused products such as edibles or tinctures.
Can I Grow My Own Medical Marijuana in Virginia?
No, it is illegal to grow marijuana for any purpose in Virginia and penalties are severe. The possession, cultivation, sale or distribution of marijuana in any form is prohibited and punishable by law. It is also illegal to possess or use marijuana even for medical purposes in Virginia.
How Do Medical Marijuana Laws Affect Employment And Drug Testing in Virginia?
Medical marijuana laws in Virginia do not generally affect employment and drug testing. Under the Virginia Drug Control Act, employers are allowed to use pre-employment drug tests to screen applicants for “illicit drugs,” which includes marijuana. Employers may also conduct random drug tests during employment.
However, it is important to note that employers are allowed to make exceptions for medical marijuana users in certain circumstances. In particular, employers may not be able to take disciplinary action against an employee who is using medical marijuana in accordance with their doctor’s recommendation if the employee is able to perform their job duties without presenting a safety hazard. Additionally, employers may not be able to deny employment to an applicant because they test positive for marijuana during a pre-employment drug test if the applicant has a valid medical marijuana card.
Are There Age Restrictions For Medical Marijuana Patients in Virginia?
Yes, there are age restrictions for medical marijuana patients in Virginia. Patients must be 18 years of age or older to qualify for the Virginia Medical Cannabis Program.
What Forms Of Medical Marijuana Are Available in Virginia?
Medical marijuana is available in Virginia for patients with one of the approved conditions. These include cancer, glaucoma, HIV/AIDS, Crohn’s disease, multiple sclerosis, spasticity, intractable epilepsy, or any terminal illness with a life expectancy of less than 12 months. Medical marijuana is available in Virginia in the form of oils, tinctures, topicals, and capsules. Smoking and vaping are not allowed under the current Virginia medical marijuana program.
Are There Reciprocity Agreements For Out-Of-State Medical Marijuana Patients in Virginia?
No, there are no reciprocity agreements for out-of-state medical marijuana patients in Virginia. The law only allows for in-state medical marijuana patients to receive a medical marijuana card and purchase cannabis products from licensed dispensaries.
What Are The Penalties For Using Or Possessing Medical Marijuana Without A Card in Virginia?
Possessing marijuana without a card in Virginia is a felony offense, punishable by up to 10 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $2,500. If caught with more than half an ounce, the penalty increases to a felony with a prison sentence of up to five years and/or a fine of up to $2,500. Cultivating marijuana without a card is also a felony offense in Virginia, punishable by up to five years in prison and/or a fine of up to $2,500.
Can I Get A Medical Marijuana Card If I’M Not A Resident in Virginia?
No, you must be a resident of Virginia to be eligible for a medical marijuana card in Virginia.
What Is The Role Of Doctors In Recommending Medical Marijuana in Virginia?
In the state of Virginia, doctors play an important role in recommending medical marijuana for eligible patients. To do this, physicians must be registered with the Virginia Board of Pharmacy and must follow all applicable laws. All recommendations must be based on sound medical judgment and must be provided in writing on the patient’s behalf. Doctors may provide information to patients about the potential risks and benefits of medical marijuana as well as educate them on dosing and methods of delivery. The doctor must also provide ongoing care and monitoring to ensure that the patient is benefiting from the medication.
Are There Restrictions On Where I Can Use Medical Marijuana in Virginia?
Yes. Medical marijuana cannot be used in a public place, school, or on federal property. It can only be used in private residences or in a designated caregiver’s residence. It is also illegal to drive under the influence of marijuana.
Can I Apply For A Medical Marijuana Card Online in Virginia?
No, you cannot apply for a medical marijuana card online in Virginia. In order to apply for a medical marijuana card in Virginia, you must be seen by a physician who has completed an educational course on the use of cannabis and its medical applications, and then submit an application to the Virginia Board of Pharmacy. The application must include a written recommendation from the physician.
What Are The Fees Associated With Obtaining A Medical Marijuana Card in Virginia?
The state of Virginia charges a $50 fee to apply for a medical marijuana card. This fee is nonrefundable and covers the cost of processing the application. There may be additional costs associated with obtaining a medical marijuana card, such as for a medical evaluation from a doctor.
Do I Have To Notify My Employer If I Have A Medical Marijuana Card in Virginia?
No, you are not required to notify your employer if you have a medical marijuana card in Virginia. However, it is important to understand that employer policies on marijuana use may vary, so it is best to discuss with your employer any potential implications that may arise from possessing a medical marijuana card. Additionally, Virginia employers have the right to restrict marijuana use in the workplace, so it is important to be aware of this when discussing your medical marijuana card with your employer.
Can Medical Marijuana Patients Purchase Firearms in Virginia?
No, medical marijuana patients are not allowed to purchase firearms in Virginia. Federal law prohibits the sale of firearms or ammunition to any person who is an unlawful user of or addicted to any controlled substance, including marijuana. Therefore, medical marijuana patients are not allowed to purchase firearms in Virginia.
What Legal Protections Do Medical Marijuana Patients Have in Virginia?
Medical marijuana patients in Virginia have certain legal protections under the Virginia Medical Marijuana Act of 2019. These protections include the right to possess cannabis legally if it is obtained from a state-authorized dispensary, possess up to one and a half ounces of cannabis flower, and to legally cultivate up to four plants. Additionally, medical marijuana patients in Virginia are protected from discrimination in employment, housing, child custody determinations, and educational settings. They are also exempt from criminal penalties for possession and use of medical marijuana within the state’s guidelines.
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