5 reasons you should get a medical marijuana card--even when recreational use is legal

Medical use of cannabis has been legal in California since the 1996 Compassionate Use Act was passed and there are two legal ways cannabis consumers can medically use cannabis:

• A Medical Marijuana Identification Card (MMIC) - is a photo-ID card issued by your state and allows holders to possess, grow, and transport a specific amount of cannabis. If you want to go the state MMIC route and you live in California, here’s the county website.

• A Medical Marijuana Recommendation - is a card or certificate issued by a medical doctor and allows holders to purchase up to 8 ounces of cannabis a day.

Qualifying conditions for receiving a California MMIC include: “…AIDS; anorexia; arthritis; cachexia (wasting syndrome); cancer; chronic pain; glaucoma; migraine; persistent muscle spasms (e.g., spasms associated with multiple sclerosis); seizures (e.g., epileptic seizures); severe nausea; and other medical conditions.

Your medical cannabis card will not show up for a background check due to HIPAA laws (but may show up if you are seeking federal employment, so be aware…)

If you’re in The Lit Club universe, there is high chance that you are someone who wants to explore cannabis as a tool for healing.

Here are 5 reasons why I think everyone should get a medical marijuana card:

1. You approach cannabis as a healer first

   Stoner jokes aside—the medicinal effects of cannabis are very real. Cannabis has been shown to reduce seizures in severe epileptic conditions. Noted marijuana activist Mary Jane Rathbun (AKA Brownie Mary) became famous for baking pot brownies for AIDS patients. Cannabis has been shown to help elderly populations with the effects of pain and depression.

2. You are more likely to use cannabis intentionally

   When you are educated about using a cannabis for your personal healing purposes, you reduce the chances of substance misuse. Instead of smoking whatever whenever, you are informed and therefore more likely to make intentional choices about how cannabis can help you live a healthier, more vibrant life.

3. No more paying state sales tax

   Cannabis taxes are really not fun (in some states that are as high as almost 22%!), so the less you have to pay, the better. While all cannabis patients are required to pay an excise tax on their weed, in California, MMIC holders are exempt from state sales tax.

   4. You have more legal protection in different states,

   Since cannabis is still not federally legal, consumers can face pretty scary legal risks when consuming in other states. Having a medical marijuana card can offer protection in specific states which still criminalize possession. (Please make sure you know the laws, because not every state treats cannabis the same…)

   5. Higher quality experience

   While cannabis still has ways to go before being FDA approved, medical marijuana often offers more precise dosage instructions, which can lead to a higher quality, more regulated experience.

If you’re interested in applying for a medical cannabis card, try Leafwell.

They are a team of data scientists, healthcare providers, cannabis specialists, and patient advocates that can get you approved for a medical cannabis card online in minutes.

Click here to apply.

(This is an affiliate link, which means I receive a percentage if you are approved…)

Wishing you safe and healing consumption of this beautiful plant.

Love,

Hannah

P.S. This blog post is provided for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute providing medical advice or professional services. The information provided should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, and those seeking personal medical advice should consult with a licensed physician.