Weed Laws in Arkansas
Arkansas gets its name from the Algonquin word for “south wind” and refers to the Quapaw people who largely inhabited the land in Arkansas. Its largest city and the state capital, Little Rock, is located in the center of Arkansas and is home to just over 202,000 residents. Arkansas can be separated into what is called highlands and lowlands, and the Ozarks and Ouachita Mountains make up the highlands, while the Gulf Coastal Plain and the Arkansas Delta make up the lowlands. In total, Arkansas has seven natural regions that are very distinct from each other, including the above, as well as Arkansas River Valley, Crowley’s Ridge, and Central Arkansas.
While in Arkansas, the Blanchard Springs Caverns are a sight to see, and you can explore the three-level cave system with a tour guide. Other natural sites that are a must-see include Hot Springs National Park and Buffalo National River. If you’re a history buff, you’ll want to plan a trip to the historic site of Central High School in Little Rock, which is known for denying entrance to the “Little Rock Nine” after the Supreme Court ruled in favor of desegregating public schools. A couple of other sites worth visiting are the Arkansas Post National Memorial and Fort Smith National Historic Site.
Arkansas still does not allow for the use of cannabis by individuals other than registered medical marijuana patients. First-time charges for possessing up to four ounces of cannabis are punishable by up to one year in prison and $2,500 in fines. Individuals convicted of any cannabis offense are also subject to a mandatory driver’s license suspension for 6-months. State reform for medical marijuana failed when first introduced in 2012, but voters finally approved medical marijuana in 2016.
Is Weed Legal in Arkansas?
YES, but only for medicinal purposes in the state of Arkansas, for people with a licensed medical marijuana card. Individuals 18 and under must have a designated caregiver who is permitted to purchase medical marijuana from a dispensary for the patient.
Weed Legalization in Arkansas
As of 2022, the consumption of cannabis is legal for medicinal use in the state of Arkansas. Arkansas was one of four states to criminalize cannabis in 1923. Nearly 90 years after, Arkansas voters attempted to vote on the legalization of medical marijuana, but the vote fell short by a small margin. Between 2006 and 2021, only three cities, Eureka Springs, Fayetteville, and Little Rock, voted to make cannabis crimes a low priority for police.
Arkansas voters in 2016 were able to pass the Arkansas Medical Marijuana Amendment, which allowed qualifying patients to obtain a medical marijuana recommendation from a physician and possess up to 2.5 ounces of cannabis. The Arkansas Medical Marijuana Amendment also required the state to license 20 to 40 dispensaries and 4 to 8 cultivators. Unfortunately, this amendment did not permit Arkansas medical marijuana patients to cultivate cannabis at home.
Even though voters passed this amendment in 2016, sales from licensed dispensaries did not begin until May of 2019. There are currently over 92,000 medical marijuana patients in Arkansas, and the state has 36 operational dispensaries and five operational cultivation facilities.
A proposed Constitutional Amendment to legalize cannabis will be on the 2022 November ballot. The initiative was filed and qualified by Responsible Growth Arkansas. The measure would legalize possession of one ounce of cannabis by adults 21 and older and tax recreational sales at 10%. The initiative does not allow for home cultivation.
Cannabis Tax in Arkansas
Individuals with valid Arkansas medical marijuana cards and registered caregivers can purchase cannabis from state-licensed dispensaries.
The states levies a tax of up to 16% on marijuana purchases, which covers:
- State sales tax
- Local sales taxes
- Medical Marijuana Special Privilege Tax
State sales and special privilege taxes collected on the sale of medical marijuana are to be allocated to the Arkansas Medical Marijuana Implementation and Operations Fund. After operational costs and other expenses, the remaining funds within the Arkansas Medical Marijuana Implementation and Operations Fund are distributed to the General Revenue Fund Account.
Is Cannabis Delivery Available in Arkansas?
YES, but only for medicinal purposes in the state of Arkansas, for people with a licensed medical marijuana card.
Where Can You Legally Use Weed in Arkansas?
Cannabis can be legally used by cardholding medical marijuana patients in the following areas in Arkansas:
🗹 Private properties such as residences as permitted by the owner.
Cannabis CANNOT be consumed in:
X Public spaces
X Motorized vehicles in motion, for both driver and passengers
X The presence of a person who is under the age of 14 or a pregnant woman
What are the Restrictions on Cannabis Possession in Arkansas?
Cannabis is only legal for medical use in Arkansas.
Individuals with a medical marijuana card in Arkansas may purchase 2.5 ounces, or 70.8 grams, of usable marijuana per 14 day period. Usable marijuana includes the stalks, seeds, roots, dried leaves, flowers, oils, vapors, waxes, and other portions of the marijuana plant and any mixture or preparation consisting of these components. Usable marijuana also includes edibles, concentrates, and extracts.
For transfer between qualified medical marijuana patients or caregivers:
- Usable Marijuana: 2.5 ounces / 70.8 grams
During vehicular transportation:
- Cannabis must be stored in a container with a dispensary label.
Frequently Asked Questions About Marijuana in Arkansas
How can I get a medical marijuana card in Arkansas?
Individuals wishing to obtain an Arkansas medical marijuana card must get a recommendation from a physician for a qualifying condition. Patients must then submit an application form, proof of ID, residency, fee payment, and the physician recommendation to the state.
Where can I get medical marijuana in Arkansas?
A qualifying medical marijuana patient with a valid recommendation and card may purchase medical marijuana at any state-licensed dispensary.
Can out-of-state patients get a medical marijuana card in Arkansas?
Yes, out-of-state medical marijuana patients can obtain a 90-day permit to purchase medical marijuana in Arkansas.
Can individuals under the age of 21 get a medical marijuana card in Arkansas?
Yes, individuals under the age of 21 can obtain a medical marijuana card in Arkansas if they have a qualifying condition and a recommendation from a physician. Individuals under the age of 18 must have the permission of their parent or guardian, who must also serve as their caregiver.
What is the cost of a medical marijuana card in Arkansas?
The cost of an Arkansas medical marijuana card is $50.
How long is a medical marijuana card valid in Arkansas?
An Arkansas medical marijuana card is valid for up to one year after the issue date or the amount of time the patients’ physician believes the patient will benefit from medical marijuana.
Can medical marijuana patients grow cannabis in Arkansas?
No, Arkansas medical marijuana patients cannot cultivate cannabis at home.
The information in this article and any included images or charts are for educational purposes only. This information is neither a substitute for, nor does it replace, professional legal advice or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about laws, regulations, or your health, you should always consult with an attorney, physician or other licensed professional.
