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RI Medical Marijuanas Card
Medical marijuana has long been a subject of disagreement among professionals from a variety of disciplines. Few topics generate as much scrutiny from legislators, academics, researchers, clinicians, and the general public.
Medical marijuana therapy has been shown to ease the symptoms of various conditions as long as the dosage is managed and the consumption schedule is monitored by a doctor. Still, though, despite the various benefits of medicinal marijuana, some Americans remain skeptical.
Many physicians in Rhode Island offer medical marijuana card assessments. Here, we’ll clarify some medical marijuana myths and explain how to locate a dispensary near you. We’ll also answer some commonly asked questions and detail how to find medicinal marijuana physicians in Rhode Island.
What is Medical Marijuana?
Medical marijuana is a treatment option for certain medical conditions. It is made from the dried flowers and leaves of the cannabis plant. When used as directed, medical marijuana may provide relief from symptoms of certain medical conditions. It can be consumed in the form of a plant, oil, spray, tincture, vape, topical cream, or edible.
Medical Marijuana Laws in Rhode Island
It is legal to possess and consume medical marijuana in Rhode Island, provided you have a valid medical marijuana card. The state has a number of dispensaries where you can purchase medical marijuana products. It is also legal to grow your own medical marijuana, but you must follow state regulations carefully.
You are not allowed to possess more than 2.5 ounces of marijuana at any given time. If you are caught with more, you could face up to a year in jail and a fine of up to $500. If you are caught selling or distributing marijuana, you could face up to 5 years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000. These penalties worsen if you have previous convictions.
Rhode Island Public Consumption Laws
Cannabis can currently be consumed legally anywhere cigarette smoking is permitted. However, due to federal law, smoking is prohibited anywhere on federal property, including courthouses, subsidized housing, and national parks.
The laws governing public consumption will probably change as a result of the recent legalization of marijuana for recreational use. The current legal framework gives localities the freedom to decide for themselves what rules and sanctions apply to cannabis use in public. For the most recent policy changes, check your local government’s website.
Rhode Island Cannabis DUI Laws
Driving under the influence of marijuana is illegal in Rhode Island. Holders of medical marijuana cards, however, are not automatically guilty of DUI based on the presence of THC in their bodies. Drivers may be stopped by law enforcement if they believe they are impaired.
For first offenses, there are several penalties available, including a $500 fine, 20 to 60 hours of community service, a year in jail, and a three to 18-month license suspension. With each subsequent offense, the minimum penalties increase, and third offenses result in mandatory imprisonment. Whenever possible, it’s best to operate motor vehicles before consuming cannabis.
Rhode Island Medical Marijuana Program
The process of applying for a Rhode Island medical marijuana card is relatively simple. First, you will need to gather the necessary documentation, which includes proof of residency in Rhode Island and a copy of your Rhode Island driver’s license or ID card. You will also need to provide written certification from your physician indicating that you suffer from one of the state’s qualifying medical conditions.
Once you have gathered all of the required documentation, you will need to submit an application to the Rhode Island Department of Health. If you are a minor or otherwise unable to submit an application yourself, you can appoint a designated caregiver to submit a patient application form on your behalf.
How to Find a Rhode Island Medical Marijuana Doctor
If you are a resident of Rhode Island and suffer from a qualifying condition, you may be eligible for medical marijuana. To find a doctor who can certify your eligibility, visit the RI Department of Health website and click on the “Find a Physician” link. You can then search for doctors who are authorized to certify patients for medical marijuana.
Where Can You Buy Rhode Island Medical Marijuana?
In Rhode Island, there are six medical marijuana dispensaries. All of them are open to those who are registered in the state’s medical marijuana program. These places consist of:
- Aura of Rhode Island in Central Falls
- Mother Earth Wellness in Pawtucket
- Greenleaf Compassion Center in Portsmouth
- Thomas C. Slater Compassion Center in Providence
- Sweetspot in South Kingstown
- RISE Dispensary in Warwick
To ensure that you are ready for your dispensary visit before arriving, call ahead to confirm the dispensary’s hours of operation and policies. In addition to offering seasonal specials and loyalty programs, dispensaries offer discounts for new medical marijuana patients. Additionally, most marijuana dispensaries offer curbside pickup and delivery.
While sales of recreational marijuana for adult use started on December 1st, 2022, those purchases are restricted to one ounce and are additionally subject to a 10% cannabis tax on top of regular state and local sales taxes. Only sales tax is required of medical patients, who also have access to a larger product selection than recreational customers.
The Cannabis Control Board may alter the timeline of this process, but the state intends to grant up to 33 additional licenses for dispensaries.
Frequently Asked Questions
What information and forms are required to apply for a medical marijuana card?
In order to apply for a medical cannabis card in Rhode Island, qualifying patients must send some basic information and forms to the state of Rhode Island. This includes your name, date of birth, address, and proof of residency. You will also need to provide a form of state ID, such as a driver’s license, a passport, or another type of identification card such as a voter registration card.
In addition, you will need to provide a practitioner-written certification form that confirms that you have a qualifying medical condition. Finally, you will need to provide a recent photograph and pay the application fee.
What are some of the qualifying conditions?
Some of the qualifying conditions for a Rhode Island medical marijuana card include: cancer, cachexia, Alzheimer’s Disease, chronic pain, glaucoma, positive status for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS), hepatitis C, wasting syndrome, symptoms characteristic of epilepsy, muscle spasms, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), severe nausea, Crohn’s Disease, multiple sclerosis (MS), damage to the nervous tissue of the spinal cord with intractable spasticity, epilepsy, or inflammatory bowel disease.
Patients must also be experiencing pain that has not responded to traditional treatment. If you think you may qualify for a medical marijuana card, speak to your doctor about getting evaluated.
Which medical physicians can certify me for medical marijuana?
In order to qualify for a medical marijuana card in Rhode Island, you must see a physician certified by the state to recommend marijuana for medical use. These physicians are often called “medical marijuana specialists.” You can find a list of certified physicians on the Rhode Island Department of Health website.
How long is my card valid?
A RI medical marijuana card is valid for one year from the date of its issuance.
Can I apply if I live in another state?
Yes, you can apply for a RI medical marijuana card if you live in another state. Still, you must prove that you’re a Rhode Island resident. The process is relatively simple, and you can find more information on the Rhode Island Department of Health website.
Where are dispensaries near me?
There are dispensaries, also called “compassion centers,” in Providence, Warwick, Portsmouth, Cranston and Newport, Rhode Island. You can also find a list of dispensaries on the Rhode Island Department of Health website.
Where can I use medical marijuana in Rhode Island?
Medical marijuana patients in Rhode Island can use their medication at designated marijuana dispensaries, at home, or on private property. MMJ cardholders are not allowed to use their medication in public places.