Recently, legislation was passed in New York State to legalize marijuana. The legislation allows for the commercial sale of “cannabis” products, the growth of medical marijuana, and the creation of an Office of Cannabis Management, which will regulate cannabis in the state.
The legalization of marijuana also significantly altered New York’s criminal code by allowing certain adults to purchase, possess, sell, and even cultivate and store cannabis products in their own homes. However, in several situations, it is still unlawful to possess, consume, and sell marijuana and cannabis-related products. These are the ten things about marijuana legalization that the general public should be aware of.
10 Things to Know About Marijuana Laws in New York
1. The legalization of marijuana states that anyone who is 21 years of age or older may now purchase, possess, and consume marijuana and cannabis-related products in New York State.
2. Federal law still views marijuana and cannabis-related products as illegal. In addition to being prohibited, marijuana and cannabis products are categorized by the DEA as Schedule I controlled substances, which means that they are not approved for medical use and are considered to be among the most addictive substances globally. This implies that even in cases where someone complies fully with New York State marijuana legalization laws, the federal government (FBI, DEA, ATF, etc.) may still look into and prosecute anyone who is found to have, using, recommending, selling, or cultivating marijuana or cannabis products.
3. Furthermore, even after marijuana became legal, it might still be forbidden on college campuses. For instance, all universities receiving federal funding are required by the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act to establish a policy that forbids marijuana use on campus. This means that even if a student is not breaking any laws in New York State, they could still face disciplinary action from their college for breaking this policy.
Also Read:
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3. Government U – Turns About Weed Legalization in Thailand
4. Each person is only allowed to possess up to 3 ounces of marijuana or 24 grams of concentrated cannabis for personal use as a result of marijuana legalization. If you exceed these limits, you might face legal repercussions on the criminal or civil levels.
5. As long as they are not paid for the transfer, a person is allowed to give marijuana or cannabis products to another adult who meets the requirements. You must obtain a license and authorization to sell marijuana or cannabis-related products.
6. As per the legalization of marijuana, people are allowed to legally own cannabis accessories.
7. Up to three mature and three immature cannabis plants may be grown in a household as long as reasonable precautions are taken to keep the plants safe and out of the reach of minors.
8. Notwithstanding the legalization of marijuana, possessing more than three ounces or twenty-four grams of concentrated cannabis is illegal; more than sixteen ounces or five ounces of concentrated cannabis is a misdemeanor; more than five pounds or two pounds of concentrated cannabis is an E felony; and more than ten pounds or more than four pounds of concentrated cannabis is a D felony. Under the aforementioned circumstances, the unauthorized sale of cannabis and cannabis-based products is subject to the same criminal penalties. Selling more than 100 pounds of cannabis or concentrated cannabis is also a C Felony.
9. Should you possess a prior qualifying conviction or criminal violation for an offense solely related to marijuana that occurred before the new marijuana legalization law went into effect, you may be qualified to have that conviction sealed. Up to two offenses, only one of which may be a felony, may be sealed as long as ten years have elapsed since your conviction or release from prison, whichever occurs first.
10. Operating a vehicle while under the influence of marijuana or cannabis-related products remains illegal. Driving under the influence of drugs is a charge under Vehicle and Traffic Law § 1192(4). According to Vehicle and Traffic Law § 1192(4), law enforcement officials in New York State are no longer permitted to “sniff and search” or use the smell or presence of marijuana, cannabis products, or related paraphernalia as a justification for an arrest, a more thorough investigation, or a search.
In Conclusion
Although the recent legalization of marijuana has made it possible for people to use, enjoy, and profit from cannabis legally, it’s important to be aware of the restrictions imposed by the law, which are outlined above.
Remember in particular that impairment and cognition are greatly impacted by marijuana and cannabis products. Although marijuana is legal in some states, if used carelessly, it can cause many serious issues. As such, never use cannabis or cannabis products before or while operating machinery, driving, or providing care for others.
