Talk about marijuana and get called a “drug addict.” Well, not anymore. Marijuana has commendable medicinal properties that have given numerous patients relief and have even given possible cures for some health issues. Currently, 38 states in the US have legalized medical marijuana either partially or wholly, with laws overlooking the consumers. We know you are seeking a Maryland Medical Marijuana Card as you’re here. So, let’s dive into the process right away!
Is Weed Legal in Maryland?
Medical Marijuana has been legal in Maryland since 2015. However, Maryland’s medical marijuana program became operational only in 2017. As of 2022, the Governor of Maryland has put a policy straight into the ballot box for Maryland voters to decide whether the recreational use of marijuana can be legalized or not. After the voting, the bill could pass as law without the signature or veto of the Governor.
So, it is no use in waiting for general weed to be legal. Take courage and apply for a medical card when you are in need.
Maryland Medical Marijuana Card in 2022
Now we know that Maryland legalizes medical marijuana. So how does the state actually do it? The straightforward answer is that the Maryland state legislature has established a state-wide program known as the Natalie M. LaPrade Maryland Medical Cannabis Commission (MMCC). This commission carries out regulations, laws, policies, distribution, and approval of medical marijuana. When you need a medical marijuana card in Maryland, you need to be approved by the MMCC.
Qualifying Conditions for Medical Card in Maryland
The MMCC deems certain medical conditions eligible to become a registered patient in Maryland. These conditions are pain-inducing and chronic. A licensed physician may approve any other medical condition, but the state must accept it before you get your card.
- AIDS/HIV
- Anorexia
- Cachexia
- Cancer
- Chronic, Severe, or Intractable Pain
- Epilepsy
- Multiple Sclerosis (M.S.)
- Persistent Muscle Spasms
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Severe Nausea
- Wasting Syndrome
- Extreme conditions where other medical treatments have been ineffective
- A medical condition requiring hospice admittance or receiving palliative care
Other intense conditions may come under this list when updated by Maryland legislation. Has your doctor diagnosed you or your close one with any of these conditions? Then, do not hesitate to apply for a medical marijuana card.
Why Should I Get A Medical Card in Maryland?
We can list several reasons for having a medical marijuana card, but here are a few that might push you one step further.
- No Age Restriction – You are eligible for a medical marijuana card even under 18 years of age. With the help of a caregiver, one can intake the prescribed amount.
- Exemption from Tax – When it comes to medical marijuana in Maryland, we are excited to tell you that there is no taxation.
- Under the Law’s Roof – Do not fret. The MMCC has laid down rules to protect medical marijuana cardholders to keep them away from any legal issues.
- Recovery – Alleviate symptoms, and relieve pain. Move on with your life by taking the correct medication.
How Maryland Medical Cannabis Card Works?
Being a resident of Maryland, falling under the age limit, obtaining the approval of a medical professional, and having the necessary documents for submission is enough for you to apply for an MMCC patient ID card.
- Register with MMCC (state fee $25)
- The process of registration differs based on the patient’s age and accommodation. Currently, we have the following:
1. Adult Patients (18+ years of age)
2. Minor Patients (Under 18 years of age)
3. Patients with special discounts
Caregivers - Obtain a written certification from a provider registered with the Commission
- Visit a licensed Maryland dispensary.
Why Choose My MMJ Doctor?
We are in 2022, a digital era! Why bother by traveling to visit doctors and wait for the diagnosis when you can do it all from the comfort of your home? Telehealth services like My MMJ Doctor have made it pretty easy for patients. Let’s see how.
Book your appointment – Seek recommendations from a certified physician practicing in Maryland just with a few clicks. Our team works closely with numerous qualified doctors to answer all your questions.
Consult your doctor – A medical practitioner will evaluate your medical condition on a video call. Once your discussion is over, if the doctor finds you eligible, they will write you a recommendation letter. That simple!
Register with the State – Download your recommendation from your email and produce it to register on the state’s official website.
Essentials for Medical Marijuana State ID
- A valid, accessible email account.
- Entire 9-digit Social Security Number.
- An electronic copy of a valid government-issued photo ID.
- Proof that the applicant lives in Maryland.
- A passport-size photo of the applicant abiding by all the guidelines.
Maryland Weed Laws 2022
Before you proceed, you must know the laws and regulations surrounding the use of medical marijuana in the state. So you can take the best out of the legalization of marijuana.
- Qualifying Patients – can possess up to 120 grams of cannabis flower (dried) or 36 grams of THC concentrate for 30 days. If the medical practitioner prescribes any more than this amount, the patient must produce the certification proof in case of inquiry.
- Non-patients – Adults older than 21 can possess 10 grams or less of marijuana in person. Anything more than that is punishable by the law as follows:
$100 for first-time offenders
$250 for second-time offenders
$500 for third or subsequent offenders - It is illegal to grow any number of marijuana plants, even for Medical Marijuana Card holders.
Benefits of Maryland Medical Cannabis Card
Save your Savings
We should think about how we control spending and save money. One central aspect of leading a healthy lifestyle is getting your illnesses treated. Therefore, taking advantage of the tax exemption for drugs is extremely important.
In Maryland, marijuana is not subject to a tax. But, you must pay a non-refundable state fee to register to become an MMCC program member and obtain an MMJ card.
Access to Any Age
Access to medical care should be available to all patients regardless of age. With an MMJ card, marijuana is only not accessible to those who are above 18 years old but even to children.
Maryland has established policies that permit the use of medicinal marijuana by young patients. Therefore, the law mandates that an adult caregiver (age 21 or over) help the underage patient. A parent or legal guardian of the patient in question acts as a caregiver. Before starting the medicine, the caretaker must also get state approval. In Maryland,
Qualifying patients under 18 can obtain medical marijuana with the help of their caregiver (parent/guardian) or any parent-authorized caregiver.
A caregiver can serve up to 5 patients at a time.
Qualifying patients above 18 can have only two caregivers, and those under 18 can have only four caregivers.
Maryland Caregivers
Considering the diagnosis for minors and differently-abled patients, the Maryland Medical Cannabis Commission approves a caregiver.
Qualifying patients under 18 can obtain medical marijuana with the help of their caregiver. A caregiver is usually a parent, guardian, or any adult authorized by the parent.
A caregiver can serve up to 5 patients at a time.
Qualifying patients above 18 can have only two caregivers, and those under 18 can have only four caregivers.
Maryland MMJ Card Facts
Unfortunately, Maryland does not have medical marijuana reciprocity and so does not honor medical marijuana cards from other states.
One surprising fact about Maryland Medical Marijuana Cards is that patients can renew their card every six years, which is comparatively higher than in other states.
Maryland has a pretty good record of maintaining enforcement programs across the state. From application to the dispensary, the MMCC regulates all the procedures, so there is no nip-slip. Marylandians, get your MMJ Card with My MMJ Doctor now and enjoy the perks of having one. As stated earlier, there is only a minimum state fee for the application. Additionally, a consultation fee will be applicable. We at My MMJ Doctor, consider all kinds of patients and charge them accordingly.
Also, learn about opening a cannabis dispensary. Cannabis is an ever-changing industry. The cannabis industry has grown and evolved in recent years. It will continue to do so as more states legalize the medicinal and recreational use of the drug. Below are some of the steps of opening a cannabis dispensary. Keyposting is having many informational articles which are quite useful for the readers.
