New Jersey legalized cannabis use in 2021. Since then, thousands of new and exciting products have become available – alongside thousands of new customers discovering the wide range of experiences available. Before indulging, however, it’s important to understand how to do so responsibly.
Hello High Dispensary offers a variety of cannabis products and even provides weed delivery throughout southern New Jersey. Here, we explore the ins and outs of the legality of cannabis.
Purchasing Recreational Cannabis
To buy cannabis products for recreational use, you must first be 21 or older. You must also shop from a licensed dispensary. Assuming you’re old enough and your dispensary is licensed, you are free to shop! You can buy up to 1 ounce of cannabis in a single purchase. This can amount to:
- 1 ounce of dried flower
- 4 grams of solid concentrates or resin
- 4 grams of oil or tincture
- The equivalent of 4 grams of liquid concentrate
- 1,000 milligrams of edibles
If you’re buying a combination of products, the rule applies to your total. For example, you can buy up to half an ounce of flower alongside five 100mg packages of gummies, or you can get two grams each of solid concentrate and tincture. If you’re struggling with the math, speak with a budtender. Dispensary staff are trained in the limitations and can help you put together a legal purchase.
Purchasing Medicinal Cannabis
The rules are slightly different for medicinal use. There is no age restriction on medical cannabis. However, patients must be registered with the New Jersey Medicinal Cannabis Program (NJMCP). The requirements for registration are as follows:
- Be a New Jersey resident.
- Maintain a bona fide relationship with a registered healthcare provider. This means you’ve been seeing the provider for at least one year, you’ve had at least four visits, or the provider has performed a full examination and taken responsibility for managing your condition.
- Be diagnosed with a qualifying medical condition. You can check the NJMCP website for a list of medical conditions that qualify for the program.
If you meet all these requirements, then you can ask your provider for a reference ID number and registry ID number. These will allow you to set up an account and complete your application. You’ll be able to select an Alternative Treatment Center (ATC), where you’ll be purchasing your doses of medicinal cannabis. You can change your ATC at any time. You’ll also receive an ID card, which you should carry at all times.
Once you’ve purchased your medical cannabis, make sure it stays in its original labeled packaging until you’re ready to use it. Keep it at home, and don’t transport it unless necessary.
Can I Gift Cannabis?
If you have a friend or family member who uses recreational cannabis, you’re free to share your products or give them a gift. Just like cannabis purchases, gifts are restricted to a maximum of 1 ounce or the equivalent. Also, both you and the recipient must be 21 or older.
Medical cannabis doses, however, cannot be shared. They should only be consumed by the registered patient. If you have more medical cannabis than you want or need, return the excess to your ATC. You’ll need to present your registry identification card or other valid photo ID.
Where Can I Smoke?
Whether you’re using cannabis recreationally or for medical reasons, you’re encouraged to use it at home or in other private spaces. Never use cannabis on federal property or in a federal building. Landlords can also ban smoking and vaping on their property. If you rent your home, double-check that cannabis is approved by your landlord before you use any. Using cannabis in an area where it is prohibited can result in a civil summons and a fine.
It’s also illegal to carry cannabis products across state lines. This law applies to both recreational and medicinal cannabis. If you are a New Jersey resident and plan to travel, leave your cannabis at home. If you purchase cannabis while visiting New Jersey, it should be consumed before you leave.
Can I Drive While High?
Finally, it’s illegal to operate a moving vehicle while high. It’s also dangerous. Cannabis use can impair your reaction times, depth perception, and coordination. This can all increase your chances of an accident. Not only will you be at risk, but you may also endanger others. If you need to travel while high, find a sober driver who can safely take you to your destination.
Learn More About the Legality of Cannabis
Now that you know the rules and restrictions, you’re ready to enjoy cannabis responsibly. Hello High Dispensary is a licensed recreational dispensary located in southern New Jersey. We maintain a carefully curated selection of cannabis products in our store, and we offer weed delivery throughout southern New Jersey (minimum order $50 or more). Contact us to learn more about the legality of cannabis or for help selecting a product.
