By the end of 2018, a total of 10 states plus the District of Columbia had legalized the use of recreational marijuana. Legalizing marijuana has had some benefits for these states, such as increased tax revenue, the creation of new jobs, and the opportunity to save money by reducing the costs associated with enforcing laws that prohibited marijuana use. Those who use marijuana also appreciate that they can no longer be arrested for enjoying an edible or smoking a joint. Although the use of recreational marijuana is now legal in several states, that does not mean people can do whatever they want when it comes to using the drug. Here are four ways to take advantage of legalization without breaking any laws.
1. When you travel, do not use marijuana in other states unless you know for sure those states have also legalized recreational marijuana use.
Although tremendous progress has been made regarding marijuana legalization, 80% of states still have laws prohibiting the use of the drug in any form. If you travel to one of these states and get caught with marijuana, you may face criminal charges. Unless you entered a guilty plea, you would have to spend time and money to travel back to the state for a criminal trial, which could be costly. A conviction for marijuana possession or a related crime could also hurt your career and your personal reputation, even if your home state has legalized recreational marijuana use. To avoid these problems, make sure that recreational marijuana use is legal in each state on your travel itinerary.
2. Do not pack loose marijuana leaves, edibles, or other marijuana products in your luggage or carry-on if you plan to fly to your destination.
Marijuana use is still a crime at the federal level, even if you live in a state that has legalized recreational pot. To avoid running afoul of federal laws, do not take marijuana with you to the airport or try to take it on an airplane. If you are traveling to a state that has also legalized marijuana, you can purchase it when you arrive. Using your favorite search engine, search for a marijuana dispensary near you to find out where you can buy recreational marijuana while you are on vacation.
3. Avoid keeping marijuana in your vehicle or on your person if you are driving from a state that has legalized recreational marijuana use to a state that still prohibits recreational marijuana use.
Even if a state does not prohibit marijuana use, that does not mean you are allowed to cross state lines while in possession of the drug. If you are traveling by car, you may also travel through several states that have not legalized recreational marijuana use, putting you at risk for an arrest or citation. Although marijuana use is legal in Maine and Vermont, it is not legal in New Hampshire--which lies between the two states. If you have marijuana in your vehicle and get pulled over in New Hampshire, you may be charged with possession under New Hampshire law. The best way to avoid this is to keep marijuana products out of your vehicle while you are driving through states that have not yet legalized the use of recreational marijuana.
4. Follow all relevant laws and regulations.
Just because your state has legalized recreational marijuana use does not mean you can do whatever you want when it comes to consuming pot. In Washington, for example, you must be at least 21 years old to buy or possess marijuana. Marijuana buyers must show a photo ID and buy only from retail stores that have been vetted and licensed by the state. It is illegal to take marijuana outside the state, even though nearby Oregon and California have also legalized the use of recreational marijuana. You are responsible for knowing your state's rules and following them at all times to avoid fines and other penalties.
The legalization of recreational marijuana use creates many opportunities for buyers and sellers. Buyers can now compare products, shop around for the best price, and discover new ways to consume marijuana by shopping at licensed dispensaries. Sellers no longer have to worry that they will be prosecuted for possessing merchandise made with marijuana. If you need more information on how to enjoy recreational marijuana without breaking any laws, talk to the experts at a recreational marijuana dispensary.
