Frequently Asked Questions About Medical Cannabis In Florida
Medical cannabis has been legal in Florida since 2014, but access is still strictly regulated, with many different requirements that potential cardholders must meet in order to qualify for the program. If you are a person with a medical condition that benefits from cannabis use, it is important that you understand the proverbial hoops one must jump through in order to get and keep a medical cannabis card.
What kind of cannabis products are available to those with a medical card? – Originally, only ‘low-THC’ cannabis products were available to patients, and only to those with certain specific conditions, namely cancer, epilepsy, muscle spasms or chronic seizures. In 2016, voters approved the Florida Medical Marijuana Legislation Initiative, which expanded both the list of qualifying conditions and the different types of cannabis products available.
If I have a medical cannabis card, is any cannabis I acquire considered ‘medical?’ – The answer is no. Florida’s law is strict, defining “medical marijuana” specifically as any cannabis product purchased from a Florida medical marijuana center by someone who is qualified to do so. If a person with a medical card acquires cannabis from another source, it is considered unlawful, and they may be subject to arrest and charge just like any other person caught with a controlled substance.
Do I have to be a permanent resident of Florida in order to qualify for medical cannabis? – The answer is no! As long as a person has a temporary residence in the state, and resides in Florida for at least 31 days per calendar year, they may qualify if they meet the other requirements. This is good news for the ‘snowbirds’ who only reside in Florida for part of the year; if they have chronic conditions, cannabis is an option with which to treat them.
Can The Police Access My Medical Information? – The answer is yes, but only in one specific situation: if you are arrested on suspicion of a cannabis-related crime, and you assert your status as a medical cannabis patient as a defense. In general, your status as a medical cannabis patient cannot be used against you in legal matters, and if you are able to show proof that any cannabis in question was obtained lawfully, it can prevent you from facing charges.
Contact A West Palm Beach Drug Possession Attorney
If you have been considering seeking a medical cannabis card, consulting a qualified medical professional can answer any questions about the possibility – but for legal questions, a West Palm Beach drug possession attorney from Perlet & Shiner, P.A. can try to ensure your concerns are managed. Call our office today to speak to an attorney.
Source:
flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2017A/8A/BillText/er/PDF
