Recreational Marijuana is Now Legal in Minnesota. Why Should I Get a Medical Marijuana Card?

Recreational Marijuana in Minnesota Highlights

• Minnesota Governor Tim Walz signed the Cannabis Finance and Policy Bill (HF 100) on May 30, 2023. The bill legalized recreational marijuana for adults over 21 years old.
• The new law will take effect from August 1, 2023, meaning Minnesotans aged 21 and over can legally possess, use, and grow marijuana at home.
• The possession limits for recreational cannabis in Minnesota will be 2 pounds (32 ounces) and 2 ounces (56 grams) of marijuana at home and in public, respectively.
• Additionally, recreational users will be limited to 800 milligrams of THC in gummies and other edibles, plus 8 grams of marijuana concentrate.
• Recreational users can grow eight (8) cannabis plants, with no more than four (4) mature flowering plants.
• Adult-use cannabis will be subject to sales tax and a 10% cannabis tax. However, it may take a year before recreational marijuana is available from dispensaries.
• The new law automatically expunges records of residents convicted of misdemeanor or petty misdemeanor possession. However, processing all cases may take the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension until August of next year.
• Those with more serious convictions, for example, possession offenses that exceeded even the new limits, may apply for reduced sentences.

Understanding the Differences Between Recreational and Medical Marijuana

Before we dive into the benefits of having a medical marijuana card, let’s first explore the differences between recreational and medical marijuana. While both come from the same plant, they are used for distinct purposes and have different regulations.

Legal Age and Purchase Limits

One of the main differences between recreational and medical marijuana is the legal age for access.

In Minnesota, recreational use will only be permitted for individuals over 21. However, individuals over 18 and qualifying minors are eligible for cannabis treatment.

Product Potency and Availability

Another noteworthy difference between recreational and medical marijuana is product potency and availability. Medical marijuana is often more potent than recreational marijuana and is specifically cultivated for its medicinal properties. As a result, medical marijuana patients can receive a higher concentration of the compounds beneficial for treating their specific condition.

Additionally, medical marijuana patients have access to numerous products and strains that may not be available to recreational users. This is because medical marijuana dispensaries often carry a more diverse selection of products to cater to the specific needs of their patients.

Taxes and Differences in Pricing

Recreational marijuana is often subject to additional taxes and higher pricing than medical marijuana. And it will be no different in Minnesota. Once recreational cannabis is available commercially, it will be subject to sales tax and an additional 10% cannabis tax. MMJ, on the other hand, is considered a medical treatment and is exempt from state sales tax. As a result, it is a more affordable treatment option for patients who require cannabis to manage their symptoms.

It’s important to note that the cost of medical marijuana can still be a barrier for some patients, as insurance companies do not cover the cost of medical marijuana treatments. However, many medical marijuana dispensaries offer discounts to help make treatment more accessible for those who need it.

Benefits of Having a Medical Marijuana Card in Minnesota

Now that we have explored the differences between recreational and medical marijuana, let’s dive into the benefits of having a Minnesota medical marijuana card.

1. Access to Medical Marijuana Dispensaries

One of the most significant benefits of having a medical marijuana card is access to medical marijuana dispensaries. Medical marijuana is already well established in Minnesota, and there are several dispensaries where med card holders can buy MMJ. However, it will take a while before recreational marijuana is available in Minnesota. Estimates suggest Minnesotans may have to wait up to a year before they can purchase recreational cannabis from licensed dispensaries.

Minnesota medical marijuana dispensaries offer a wide variety of products, including edibles, tinctures, and topicals, in addition to traditional cannabis flower. Patients can also find products with specific ratios of THC and CBD, allowing for more precise treatment options. Dispensaries often have a welcoming and supportive environment where patients can ask questions and receive guidance from experienced staff members.

Update: Aside from tribally-owned dispensaries, recreational marijuana isn’t widely available yet. Full-scale sales are expected in 2025.

Medical marijuana patients benefit from consultations with medical professionals who can help them develop treatment plans to manage their conditions effectively. These consultations can include ongoing monitoring and adjustments to treatment plans to ensure patients receive the most effective treatment possible.

Medical professionals can also advise on the best consumption methods for each patient’s unique needs. For example, patients with respiratory issues may benefit from using vaporizers or edibles instead of smoking cannabis flower. Healthcare practitioners can also help patients understand potential interactions with other medications and provide guidance on dosing and frequency of use.

3. Lower Costs and Tax Exemptions

Qualifying Conditions for a Medical Marijuana Card

What are the qualifying conditions for a medical marijuana card in Minnesota?

Chronic Pain and Inflammatory Conditions

Chronic pain and inflammatory conditions are among the most common conditions treated with medical marijuana. Besides improving the overall quality of life for individuals with chronic pain, cannabis is also a potent pain killer.

For individuals with chronic pain, medical marijuana can be a game-changer. Chronic pain can result from various conditions, such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, and multiple sclerosis. These conditions can cause debilitating pain that makes it difficult to perform daily tasks. Medical marijuana can help manage this pain, allowing individuals to regain control over their lives.

Medical marijuana is also a potential treatment for inflammatory conditions such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. These conditions can cause severe pain, discomfort, and digestive issues. Medical marijuana may reduce inflammation in the gut, leading to a reduction in symptoms and an improvement in overall quality of life.

Medical marijuana has shown promise in treating several mental health disorders, for example, anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Many patients find that medical marijuana offers a more natural and effective alternative to traditional psychiatric medications.

For individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder, medical marijuana can alleviate symptoms such as racing thoughts, insomnia, and feelings of hopelessness. Additionally, MMJ can help individuals cope better with traumatic experiences and improve their overall quality of life.

Importantly, you should not substitute traditional psychiatric medications with medical marijuana without consulting a doctor.

Neurological and Movement Disorders

Medical marijuana is also effective in managing symptoms of neurological and movement disorders, including multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, and epilepsy.

For individuals with multiple sclerosis, medical marijuana can help manage symptoms such as muscle spasms, pain, and tremors. Medical marijuana can also help manage the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, like tremors, stiffness, and difficulty with movement. In addition, medicinal cannabis appears to be effective in reducing the frequency and severity of seizures in individuals with epilepsy.

Cancer and Terminal Illnesses

Medical marijuana for cancer also turns out to be effective in symptom management. Through cannabis treatment, cancer patients often experience relief from nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite.

For individuals undergoing chemotherapy, medical marijuana can help manage the side effects of treatment, including nausea and vomiting. Moreover, MMJ helps improve appetite, allowing individuals to maintain a healthy weight during treatment.

For individuals with terminal illnesses, medical marijuana can mitigate symptoms such as pain, anxiety, and depression. Medicinal cannabis can also help better quality of life, allowing individuals to spend more time with loved ones and engage in activities that bring them joy.

How to Apply for a Medical Marijuana Card in Minnesota