Louisiana is in the midst of a marijuana evolution that began accelerating with the first dispensing of legal medical cannabis to patients in August 2019. While the state still has some of the strictest marijuana laws in the country, it has also taken steps to expand access to marijuana for medicinal purposes. This has led many tourists to wonder whether weed is legal in New Orleans, a city known for its vibrant culture, music, and nightlife.
Here's everything you need to know about Louisiana weed laws and medicinal marijuana before your next trip to New Orleans.
First and foremost, it's important to note that recreational marijuana is still illegal in Louisiana. Possession of any amount of marijuana can result in fines and/or jail time. However, the state does allow for the use of medical marijuana for certain qualifying conditions, such as cancer, HIV/AIDS, Parkinson's disease, and PTSD, among others.
To obtain medical marijuana in Louisiana, patients must have a qualifying condition and a recommendation from a licensed physician. The state has also established nine dispensaries where patients can purchase medical marijuana products, including oils, tinctures, and pills.
While medical marijuana is legal in Louisiana, there are still some restrictions on its use. For example, patients are not allowed to smoke marijuana or use it in any form that involves combustion. They are also not allowed to grow their own marijuana plants.
As for the question of whether weed is legal in New Orleans, the answer is yes and no. While the city has decriminalized the Possession of small amounts of marijuana, it is still illegal under state law. This means that if you are caught with marijuana in New Orleans, you could still face fines and/or jail time, but you are less likely to be arrested than in other parts of the state.
The decriminalization of marijuana in New Orleans means that Possession of up to 14 grams (about half an ounce) of marijuana is punishable by a fine of up to $40 and no jail time. However, if you are caught with more than 14 grams, you could still face jail time and steeper fines.
It's worth noting that the laws regarding marijuana in Louisiana are still evolving. In May 2021, the Louisiana House of Representatives passed a bill that would decriminalize the Possession of small amounts of marijuana statewide. However, the bill still needs to be approved by the Senate and signed by the governor before it becomes law.
There is also ongoing debate in the state over whether to legal recreational marijuana. While some lawmakers and advocacy groups support legal, others are opposed, citing concerns about public health and safety.
If you are planning to visit New Orleans and want to use marijuana for medicinal purposes, it is important to do your research ahead of time. Make sure you have a qualifying condition and a recommendation from a licensed physician, and be aware of the restrictions on medical marijuana use in the state.
If you are caught with marijuana in New Orleans, it's important to know your rights. You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. If you are arrested, it's a good idea to contact a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible.
In conclusion, while weed is not yet legal in New Orleans or Louisiana for recreational purposes, the state has taken steps to expand access to medical marijuana for qualified patients. If you are planning to use marijuana in New Orleans, it's important to understand the laws and regulations surrounding its use, and to exercise caution to avoid legal trouble.
