Washington DC Cannabis Laws Initiative 71
Washington DC cannabis laws "Initiative 71" are some of the most confusing cannabis laws in the United States. In DC, both medical and recreational marijuana is legal. However, selling cannabis for recreational use is still considered illegal and a punishable offense. This means that although you can legally possess and consume cannabis in DC, you cannot directly purchase it from a DC weed store. So how do people obtain legal weed in DC?
In this article, we will cover all you need to know about Washington DC’s cannabis laws, including Initiative 71 and how you can obtain cannabis at a DC weed store.
Washington DC Cannabis Laws Initiative 71
In 2014, Washington DC voters passed Initiative 71, which made it legal for adults 21 and over to possess up to two ounces of recreational marijuana, grow marijuana, and transfer up to one ounce of weed in DC.
Anyone 21 years of age or older in DC can gift up to one ounce of marijuana with this law. However, you can’t purchase cannabis or barter for it.
Initiative 71 was a huge step forward for cannabis legalization in Washington DC, but there are still some restrictions in place. For example, it is still illegal to smoke weed in public or drive while under the influence of cannabis. You’re also not allowed to sell cannabis, regardless of the quantity.
So how do people get weed in DC if they can’t buy it? Many people grow their own cannabis at home, while others get it from friends or family members. There are also donation stores or cannabis gifting stores available, where you can donate money in exchange for cannabis.
Finding a I-71 Compliant Weed Shop DC
Now that you know more about the cannabis laws in DC, you’re probably wondering where you can go to purchase weed. Unfortunately, because selling recreational cannabis is still illegal, there are no retail dispensaries in DC. However, there are some ways to get around this.
One option is to visit a medical marijuana dispensary in DC. In order to do this, you must first obtain a medical marijuana card from a licensed physician. Once you have your card, you will be able to visit any dispensary in DC and purchase cannabis for medical purposes.
Attaining a medical marijuana card can be a bit of a hassle, and not everyone is eligible. The process typically involves getting a recommendation from a doctor and then registering with the state. Furthermore, there are a limited number of marijuana dispensaries in DC, making the process even more complicated and confusing.
You can purchase medical marijuana in DC because of Initiative 59, which made it legal for patients with certain medical conditions to use and possess marijuana with a doctor’s recommendation.
If you don’t have a medical marijuana card, another option is to find a “gift economy” weed shop. These types of shops operate under the loophole that selling cannabis is illegal, but gifting it is not.
Washington DC Weed Stores
If you’re searching for weed in DC, there are a few things you can search for to find a gift economy weed shop. For example, you can search for a store specializing in “420 friendly” gifts. These stores typically sell cannabis-themed products like t-shirts, pipes, and other paraphernalia.
Some stores also have an “adults only” section where you can purchase cannabis gummies or brownies.
When looking for a gift weed shop, it is important to remember that you cannot directly purchase cannabis. Instead, you must find a store willing to gift you the cannabis in exchange for another item of equal value.
Weed Gifts
Gift weed shops will usually require you to purchase an item from their store before you can receive a gift of cannabis. For example, you might need to buy a t-shirt or a piece of art to receive a certain amount of weed.
These shops usually operate on a donation basis, meaning you can donate whatever amount of money you want to receive a gift of cannabis.
Although gift weed shops technically operate within the law, they are often raided by the police. This is because the legality of these types of shops is still unclear.
When visiting, make sure you bring enough cash to cover the cost of the donation for cannabis.
Weed Delivery Services
Another option for obtaining cannabis in DC is to use a delivery service. These services operate similarly to gift economy weed shops, but they will deliver the cannabis directly to your door.
Delivery services are often more expensive than gift weed shops, but they offer a higher level of convenience.
When using a delivery service, you will need to provide them with your name, address, and phone number. You will also need to make a “donation” in order to receive the cannabis.
It is important to note that delivery services are not always reliable, and they can often take longer than expected to deliver the cannabis. If you want more control over the process, it is probably better to visit a gift weed shop in person.
Initiative 71 Penalties for DC Weed Stores
If you are caught selling cannabis in DC, you could be subject to a number of penalties, including up to 60 days in jail and a fine of up to $500.
However, the penalties are much harsher for DC weed stores, which may lose their business license or certificate of occupancy.
It is essential to note that these penalties are only for selling cannabis, not gifting it. So if you’re caught gifting cannabis in DC, you will not be subject to the same penalties as if you were caught selling it.
Can I Get Weed in DC If I Am under 21?
No, you cannot get weed in DC if you are under 21. This is because the legal age to possess and consume cannabis in DC is 21. Therefore, if you are caught with cannabis under the age of 21, you could be subject to a fine and even possibly arrested.
Possession of up to two ounces of marijuana is legal in DC, but if you are caught with more than that, you could be subject to additional fines as well.
Growing Recreation Cannabis in DC
Currently, it is legal to grow up to six cannabis plants in your home in DC. However, you can only grow them for personal use and not for sale. You must also keep your plants out of public view, which means no growing them on your front porch, balcony, or front yard.
If you’re caught with more than six plants or selling the cannabis you grow, you could be subject to the same fines as if you were caught selling cannabis.
Don’t Ask to Purchase DC Cannabis
Although it is legal to gift cannabis in DC, it is still illegal to purchase it. Asking someone to sell you cannabis is a crime, and you should exercise caution when at a DC smoke shop or DC weed store. If you’re caught asking to purchase cannabis, you and the DC weed store could be subject to a fine.
The best way to avoid any problems is to receive weed gifts via a donation system. When purchasing your non-cannabis product, always clarify that you are not asking to buy cannabis and are instead receiving a gift. Using the proper terminology can help you avoid any misunderstandings and unnecessary stress or trouble.
Receiving a Weed Gift in DC
Now that you know the basics of DC cannabis laws, you’re ready to receive your weed gift! As stated before, when visiting a gift economy weed shop, make sure to bring enough cash to cover the cost of the donation for cannabis and the item you’re purchasing.
Most importantly, don’t forget to enjoy your weed gift responsibly! Always enjoy your cannabis in a private space and never drive while under the influence.
Now that you know everything there is to know about DC cannabis laws, go out and enjoy your weed gift! Just remember to be safe and always consume responsibly.
Conclusion
The laws surrounding cannabis use in DC are still evolving, and it is currently legal to gift and possess small amounts of cannabis. However, it is illegal to sell cannabis for recreational use.
If you want to purchase cannabis, you must either have a medical marijuana card or visit a gift economy weed shop. Be aware that the latter option is technically operating within a grey area and to be respectful and understanding of the complicated laws surrounding cannabis in DC.
If you are caught selling cannabis, you could be subject to harsh penalties, including up to sixty days of jail time and a fine of up to $500. However, these penalties are more severe for DC weed stores, which may lose their business license or certificate of occupancy.
As a DC smoke shop and one of the top Washington DC weed stores, DC Dabbers Club wants to make sure you know the risks and rewards of dabbing in DC. Stay safe and informed so you can enjoy your experience to the fullest! You can visit DC dabbers Club your local dispensary everyday from 10:00am to 6:45pm.
Check out DC Dabbers Club’s other blog posts for more information on cannabis in DC, and click here for our limited-time deals!