Although Marijuana has been recently legalized in Colorado and Washington, it is still not legal in the other states. However, for some states it is legal if it is used for medicinal purposes only. But there are still strict rules and guidelines for users of medical marijuana. Here are some things that you should know if you are using, or plan on using, medical Marijuana in the state of California.
Know the Law
Proposition 215 is the law that makes the use of Marijuana for medical purposes legal in California. It is also known as the California Compassionate Use Act. It was enacted by the voters of California on November 6th, 1996. The law also allows for cultivation and transportation in certain situations.
What Illnesses are Covered?
There are a lot of sicknesses and diseases that can be legally treated with Marijuana in California. Some of these illnesses include, AIDS, glaucoma, cancer, arthritis and migraines. Most ailments which can be relieved by Marijuana are permitted.
Rules and Laws?
Unfortunately, even if you are using Marijuana for medical purposes, you can still be arrested if you are found with Marijuana on yourself. Once you are charged, you may challenge it in court proving, beyond a reasonable doubt, that you use Marijuana as medication.
In California, even though medical Marijuana is legal, the law does not cover national parks or forests. If you are found with medical Marijuana in one of these places, you may be charged federally. You can also get in trouble if you try to fly with medical marijuana. Most airports will turn you in to local authorities if they find Marijuana on you or in your luggage.
Physicians
If you are in need of medical Marijuana, then you must get the approval from your physician and only a licensed physician, surgeon or osteopath must be the one from whom you get your medical Marijuana. Herbalists and chiropractors are no allowed to issue medical Marijuana.
Physicians are exempt from federal law when it comes to recommending Marijuana as a medical resource for their patients.
Where Can I Medicate?
If you use medical Marijuana then you need to be aware of where you can legally smoke it. The law prohibits medical marijuana from being smoked on busses, in smoke free zones, in a motor vehicle that is being operated, on a boat and at least 1,000 feet from a youth zone or school. If you live closer than 1,000 feet to a school then you are permitted to smoke Marijuana as long as it is done within your residence.
Marijuana has been proven to be a great, natural medicine with. It is, however, still illegal to use in most states even for medical purposes. So you should know the laws for where you live and follow them accordingly.
If you have more questions about laws and rules concerning the use of medical Marijuana in the state of California then check out the National Conference of State Legislatures website right here.
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Henry Hernandez is an army veteran and family man who was born and raised in Los Angeles California. Henry currently does marketing for an alcohol and drug reahab center in Fountain Valley, CA www.stephouserecovery.com. Henry is on Google+.
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