Mickey Starling
reporter3@greenepublishing.com
As the opening of Green Dragon Cannabis draws near, interest in obtaining a medical marijuana license is certain to increase. Now is a good time to review the current laws pertaining to eligibility and restrictions that surround the use of cannabis.
The first point, which may seem obvious, is that the term “medical marijuana” applies to when marijuana is delivered, transferred or administered by a physician. There are some circumstances which permit the home growth and cultivation of cannabis plants for personal use for those with a medical permit. No more than nine plants may be cultivated at home. As for qualifying conditions, the most common ones are ALS, cancer, Crohn's Disease, epilepsy, glaucoma, HIV/AIDS, Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson's Disease and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). However, there is a very long list of other qualifying conditions, which can be viewed at cannamd.com.
Having discussed marijuana permits with several clients, it seems very easy to obtain a permit. You can't obtain the license through your normal family physician, but must see a state certified medical marijuana physician. You can also locate these doctors on cannamd.com or locate your nearest DocMJ facility. Same-day approval is common, but you should be prepared for an expensive experience. First doctor visits run around $180 and the state license fee is about the same amount. Permits must be updated every 12 months and should be applied for 30 to 60 days before the current license expires. Of course, you should familiarize yourself with all of the laws that pertain to the use of medical marijuana, but here are a few points to consider:
• You should only use your happy plants in the privacy of your home. Never use cannabis in public or in your vehicle. Also, use of cannabis is still against federal law, so abstain in all government facilities.
• Be aware that employers have the right to not hire you if you use medical marijuana, and you cannot own or purchase a firearm while possessing a marijuana permit in the eyes of the federal government. However, in Florida, as long as you are not chronically or habitually using alcohol or other substances, you are allowed to possess a firearm and a concealed carry permit while maintaining a medical marijuana license.
• Lastly, there are restrictions on how much cannabis can be legally obtained in Florida. No more than 2.5 ounces of smokable marijuana can be purchased within a 35-day period. As with all drugs, be sure to use cannabis with moderation. Too much of a good thing can become a bad thing.