Yo, what’s good fam? It’s your boy Dan, and if you’re planning to hit up the Big Apple and wondering if weed is legal in New York, then you’re in the right spot. For a minute now, cannabis enthusiasts and users have been asking if it’s legal to light up in NY, so let’s get down to it! We’ll fill you in on all the deets about marijuana use in the state and what the government thinks about it!
A Quick History of Cannabis in New York
New York is one of the most visited states in the US, so they knew they had to get with the times and start allowing substances like weed. Back in 2014, Governor Cuomo signed the Compassionate Care Act into law, allowing medical marijuana patients to consume cannabis through methods other than smoking. This included tinctures, oils, and even vaping.
Fast forward to 2019 when Gov. Cuomo tried to pass a bill to legalize recreational use of weed, but it didn’t go through due to disagreements among lawmakers about where tax revenue would go. Finally, in 2021, Gov. Cuomo introduced his intentions of legalizing adult-use cannabis through the Cannabis Regulation and Tax Act (CRTA). However, legislators found some gaps in the CRTA, leading them to introduce an updated version called the Marijuana Regulation and Tax Act (MRTA), which was eventually signed into law as S.854-A.
Is Weed Legal in New York?
Now for the fun part – is weed legal in NY? The answer is yes! Both medical and recreational use are allowed under specific regulations.
Legal Adult Use and Marijuana Possession
If you’re 21 or older, you can possess up to three ounces of weed or 24 grams of concentrated cannabis. No one is legally allowed to have more than that amount. You can smoke or vape weed wherever tobacco smoking is allowed but not inside restaurants or outdoor dining areas.
Cannabis Growing and Cultivation
Adults are allowed to grow three cannabis plants at home while areas with more than one adult can grow six plants. Adults are also allowed to store up to five pounds of weed at home.
How to Get a NY Medical Marijuana Card
If you want to get a medical marijuana card in NY, follow these steps:
Find a registered and licensed medical marijuana practitioner.
Get a patient certification if you meet the criteria.
Complete your application for a medical marijuana card.
Get and print your digital medical cannabis card.
Penalties for Marijuana Offenses
If you’re caught violating possession laws, you’ll be fined $100 for possessing over three ounces of weed or over 24 grams of concentrates. The second offense can happen within three years and incurs a $200 fine. The third offense will cost up to $250 or 15 days in prison.
FAQs
Got more questions? Here are some FAQs about weed legalization in New York!
Are Edibles Legal in NY?
Yes! Edibles are legal as long as they comply with volume and amount regulations.
New York Weed Legalization Date
NY legalized recreational use of weed in March 2021, and as of early 2023, there have been 66 recreational cannabis cultivation licenses granted within the state.
Final Thoughts
So there you have it – the lowdown on whether weed is legal in New York! hope I’ve given you all the info you need about cannabis use in NY so that you can plan accordingly when you visit!