January 1, 2018, presented a significant change in Californians’ ability to access marijuana. For many, the new California marijuana laws were an opportunity to come out of the shadows. For others, it created a confusing mix of rules and regulations. Here’s what you need to know.
California Marijuana Laws Now Allow Medical and Recreational Access to Pot
In the past, you needed a doctor’s prescription to buy marijuana legally. Not surprisingly, there were plenty of physicians who advertised on billboards for their services. It didn’t take much to receive a prescription. Due to the ease with which people obtained a doctor’s recommendation, some medical dispensaries routinely supplied an underground recreational market.
As of the beginning of 2018, the state began regulating and licensing the recreational sale of the drug. However, it wasn’t the free-for-all that critics expected. For starters, individual cities are still trying to figure out where to place the recreational pot stores. Moreover, already operating medical dispensaries have to apply for licenses to sell recreational pot.
Typically, sales quantities have a one-ounce-per-day limit for each eligible consumer. There are exceptions for marijuana-containing edibles and topicals. However, expect to pay taxes on recreational pot. Then again, you might not have to do so when buying from a medical dispensary with a physician’s prescription.
No, You Can’t Smoke Pot Openly
Much as alcohol regulations curb public drinking, California marijuana laws don’t let you smoke weed out in the open. You also have to be of legal age to buy and use the drug. While it’s possible for entrepreneurs to open marijuana lounges, zoning is still an issue in many locations. Remember also that you may now carry up to an ounce legally, but you have to keep it out of sight.
Weed Laws Don’t Offer Legal Protections
Did you know that many employers test for marijuana? The law lets them do so. Furthermore, an employer may elect not to hire you if you test positive for the drug. Although the law allows you to smoke weed, it doesn’t protect you from these consequences.
Also, you may not smoke pot and drive. Besides that, apartment building owners and management companies can restrict marijuana smoking on their properties. Federal lands also curtail pot use. Don’t take it with you when camping at a national park in California.
Is Pot Addictive?
Government agencies recognize the possibility of developing a marijuana use disorder. Withdrawal symptoms include irritability, changes in appetite, an inability to sleep, and mood disorders. Getting help is possible. Since addiction’s a disease, look for a facility that offers a full continuum of care.
Examples of modalities include:
- Residential addiction treatment
- Individual and group addiction therapy sessions
- Behavioral modification that emphasizes coping skills development
- Nutritional support and exercise therapy that allows you to regain your health
Don’t let new California marijuana laws create a false sense of security. At our Costa Mesa CA marijuana addiction treatment program, we see plenty of people struggling with addiction. When you’re ready to quit using, call Clear Life Recovery at 866-261-7291.
