Are you a cannabis lover living in or visiting Washington, DC? If so, then this complete guide to DC cannabis is for you! In this post, we will answer the most frequently asked questions about cannabis in DC, including if it's legal, how much you can possess, and how to get a medical marijuana card in DC.
Is Cannabis Legal In DC?
The answer to this question is quite complicated. Medical marijuana is completely legal in DC, and users are allowed to buy weed from various medical dispensaries around the city. However, recreational marijuana is still technically illegal in DC.
Recreational marijuana is decriminalized, meaning that possession of small amounts (under an ounce) is not punishable by law. However, selling cannabis for recreational purposes is still illegal in DC. Smoking weed in DC public places is also strictly prohibited under both local and federal law, with significant penalties for violators
So how do people get recreational weed in DC? People get weed in DC via initiative 71 provisions. Initiative 71 is a voter-approved law that makes it legal to grow, possess, and consume small amounts of cannabis (under an ounce) in the district. Thanks to Initiative 71, it has been legal to possess and gift up to two ounces of marijuana since 2015.
What does that mean for you? Well, if you're 21 or over, you can legally possess up to two ounces of weed and grow up to six plants (three mature and three immature) at your home. You can also give away up to one ounce of weed to another person as long as they're 21 or over ( This is also known as the gifting system)
Various DC dispensaries saw this loophole and started to gift away free cannabis to users as a way to avoid selling it recreationally. In return, these users would "donate or buy other items" to the dispensary, which would help keep the business running. So if you're looking for free weed in DC, your best bet is to visit one of the many dispensaries around the city.
How To Get A Medical Cannabis Card In DC?
In this section, we'll go over the process of how to get an MMC. This process can be pretty hard if you don't have all the required documents. You will also need to have at least one of the following conditions to qualify for an MMC. The qualifying conditions are as follows:
- Cancer
- HIV/AIDS
- Glaucoma
- Multiple Sclerosis
- Epilepsy
- Crohn's Disease
Step One
The first step to getting an MMC is easy. Get a written certification from any licensed physician in DC that's registered with the medical marijuana program, and you're well on your way! Make sure to bring your medical records along when you visit the doctor so they can determine your eligibility for the program.
Step Two
The second step is to register with the DC Department of Health. You can do this by creating an account on their website. After you create an account, you'll need to log in and complete the online application. Be sure to have your doctor's certification handy when completing the application.
Step Three
After you've completed your application, you'll have to pay a processing fee. The current application fee is $100. Once you submit your application and payment, the proper authorities will evaluate it to ensure that you fulfill all of the Eligibility criteria. They will issue an MMC to you if everything appears good.
Step Four
Once you have your MMC, you can finally visit a dispensary and purchase some weed! Remember, you can only purchase up to two ounces of cannabis per visit. Be sure to bring your ID and MMC card with you when visiting the dispensary.
As you can see, the process of getting an MMC can be quite complicated. However, it is one of the only legal ways to purchase weed in DC. If you do not want to go through the hassle of getting an MMC, you can visit an Initiative 71-compliant shop and get free weed gifts.
Effects Of Marijuana
The effects of marijuana can be different for everyone. It depends on factors such as your body composition, how much you've eaten, and your tolerance to the drug. Below, we will go over some of the more common ones:
Feeling Of Joy/Happiness
Marijuana can cause people to feel a sense of joy or happiness. This is due to the THC in marijuana binding to the cannabinoid receptors in the brain. When THC binds to these receptors, it activates the brain's reward system, releasing chemicals that give you a sense of pleasure.
Increased Sense Of Sight, Hearing, And Taste
Some people report that after consuming marijuana, they feel as if their senses are heightened. This can lead to an increased appreciation of music, art, and nature. Some people also say that they have a more profound understanding of conversations.
Increased Appetite
One of the most well-known effects of marijuana is "the munchies." This is when someone has an increased appetite after consuming cannabis. The munchies are caused by a chemical in marijuana called THC, which activates the brain's hunger receptors.
Loss Of Coordination
Marijuana can cause people to lose coordination and have trouble with tasks that require fine motor skills. This effect is more pronounced when someone is new to using cannabis or if they consume a large amount at once.
False Sense Of Time
Many people report that time seems to slow down after consuming marijuana. This effect is caused by THC binding to receptors in the brain that control time perception.
Anxiety And Paranoia
For some people, marijuana can cause anxiety and paranoia. This effect is more common in people who are new to using cannabis or if they consume a large amount at once. If you experience anxiety or paranoia after using marijuana, it is best to stop using it and consult a doctor.
Trouble Thinking And Problem-solving
Marijuana can cause people to have trouble thinking clearly and solving problems. This effect is more pronounced in people who are new to using cannabis or if they consume a large amount at once.
Dry Mouth
Many people report feeling a dry mouth after consuming marijuana. This effect is caused by THC binding to receptors in the brain that control saliva production.
Red Eyes
Another common effect of marijuana is red eyes. This is caused by the blood vessels in the eyes widening after THC binds to receptors in the brain.
There are a variety of weed strains and species, so the effects of marijuana can vary depending on what you're smoking. If you're new to using cannabis, it's best to start with a small amount and see how you react to it. It's also important to be aware that the effects of marijuana can last for several hours, so don't consume more than you're comfortable with.
How To Buy Cannabis In DC?
At The Garden, we want everyone to be able to enjoy our cannabis products, regardless of whether or not they have a medical marijuana card. We offer a wide variety of edibles, concentrates, and pre-rolls that are sure to satisfy your needs.
How To Order From The Garden DC
If you want to order from The Garden DC and get perfect answers to your questions on completing an order for cannabis products, here is the guideline to follow:
Browse our online menu.
Select your free marijuana gift of choice.
Purchase a token: Each token will help support one of our organizations like the TRIGGER Project, Three Part Harmony Farm, & more.
Kindly visit our website and call (202) 815-5663 for questions regarding Initiative 71's Gifting Process or buying weed in DC. Also, please check our website to see The Garden DC's operating hours and follow us on Instagram to find out more about 420-friendly and Initiative 71-compliant deliveries.
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