Arizona’s journey to cannabis legalization has been a winding path, but has since become a multi-billion dollar industry. Whether you’re an Arizona resident or business owner, understanding the current cannabis laws is key for both consumers and businesses to stay on the right side of the law.
This guide will explore everything you need to know about Arizona’s cannabis laws, so you can run your business safely and compliantly. And if you are a consumer wanting to ensure that you are consuming legally, we’ve got you covered too! Let’s dive into Arizona’s cannabis consumption and sale laws.
Is Cannabis Legal in Arizona?
Yes, recreational cannabis is legal in Arizona as of November 30, 2020. Medical cannabis was legalized on November 2, 2010.
When Did Arizona Legalize Cannabis?
Recreational cannabis was legalized in Arizona on November 30, 2020, when Proposition 207 (the Smart and Safe Act) passed with 60% of the vote. State-licensed sales of recreational cannabis began on January 22, 2021.
Medical cannabis was legalized in Arizona on November 2, 2010, when Proposition 203 passed with 50.13% of the vote. This allowed patients with qualifying conditions and symptoms to purchase medical cannabis from licensed dispensaries starting on March 28, 2011.
What Is the Legal Consumption Age for Cannabis in Arizona?
The minimum legal consumption age for cannabis in Arizona is 21. However, qualifying individuals under the age of 21 can access medical cannabis with a valid Arizona medical card.
What Is the Legal Amount of Cannabis to Sell in Arizona?
State-licensed dispensaries can sell up to one ounce of cannabis or five grams of concentrate in a single transaction. Each individual over the age of 21 can purchase up to 2.5 ounces of cannabis in a 14-day period, which is tracked in a state portal.
Where Can I Legally Purchase Cannabis in Arizona?
Cannabis can be legally purchased from any state-approved Marijuana Establishment for adult use or a Dual Licensee for either medical or adult use. These cannabis businesses are regulated by the Arizona Bureau of Marijuana Licensing to ensure they uphold quality, safety, and compliance standards.
What Is the Legal Amount of Cannabis to Carry in Arizona?
In Arizona, individuals aged 21 and older can carry up to one ounce of marijuana or five grams of marijuana concentrate. Exceeding the legal cannabis possession limit can result in severe penalties, ranging from minor misdemeanors to serious felonies, depending on the quantity.
How Much Tax Will I Pay on Cannabis in Arizona?
Recreational cannabis sales are subject to the normal Arizona sales tax of 5.6% and any local sales tax, plus a 16% excise tax. The excise tax supports regulation by the Arizona Departments of Health Services and Public Safety.
Medical cannabis sales are exempt from the additional 16% excise tax.
What Cannabis Products Are Available in Arizona?
Arizona dispensaries offer a wide range of cannabis products, including edibles, flower, tinctures, concentrates, vape cartridges, and topicals. All cannabis products sold at state-licensed dispensaries are subject to rigorous testing to verify potency and eliminate contaminants, ensuring they meet safety requirements.
Can I Gift Cannabis in Arizona?
Yes, gifting cannabis in Arizona is allowed between adults aged 21 and older as long as the intent of the gift is non-commercial and there’s no remuneration involved.
Where Can I Smoke Cannabis in Arizona?
In Arizona, cannabis cannot be consumed in a public place or open space. It’s also prohibited to consume cannabis while driving, operating, or riding in the passenger seat of any vehicle used for transportation, including cars, boats, and aircrafts.
Can I Grow Cannabis Plants at Home in Arizona?
Yes, adults 21 or over can grow cannabis plants at home in Arizona, up to a maximum of six plants per person if residing alone or up to 12 plants per household where two or more individuals reside.
How Does Cannabis Consumption Impact My Employment in Arizona?
Arizona employers still have the right to maintain drug-free workplaces and can implement policies prohibiting marijuana use by employees or job applicants. Additionally, companies are not obligated to allow marijuana use or possession on company property.
What Are the Rules for Traveling With Cannabis in Arizona?
You can legally transport up to one ounce of marijuana within Arizona if you’re 21 or older. However, when traveling by car, it’s recommended to keep cannabis secured in your trunk rather than in your passenger compartment to avoid suspicion that you might be driving under the influence.
When traveling across state lines, carrying cannabis is prohibited since it still remains illegal under federal law.
How Are Past Cannabis Convictions Handled in Arizona?
Arizona residents with certain minor cannabis convictions have an opportunity to have their records expunged. Eligible offenses include:
- Possession, transportation, or consumption of 2.5 ounces or less of cannabis.
- Possession, cultivation, or transportation of up to six cannabis plants at the individual’s primary residence.
- Possession, use, or transportation of paraphernalia.
It's important to note that Arizona's expungement law requires a petition process and is not automatic, meaning those with convictions must initiate the process themselves.
Key Takeaways From Cannabis Laws in Arizona
While Arizona has made significant strides in cannabis legalization, it’s essential for residents, business owners, and visitors to educate themselves on the current cannabis laws. The legal cannabis industry is still relatively new across the U.S., and keeping up with evolving cannabis laws will help you stay out of trouble and make the most of what Arizona cannabis has to offer.
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