The state of California has passed some new laws regarding the recreational use of cannabis. California’s Proposition 64 allows for recreational use for marijuana but with some restrictions regarding the public use of marijuana, the amount that can be purchased, and driving while high. If you’re facing charges due to cannabis use, make sure to get into contact with a criminal defense attorney experienced in cannabis law.
What Can You Do?
If you’re interested in purchasing marijuana from a marijuana dispensary, you don’t need a medical marijuana card to make your purchase. People 21 or over will be able to purchase one ounce of marijuana from a state-licensed marijuana dispensary. You can also grow up to 6 marijuana plants at a time and keep whatever you produce. However, there are some exceptions to growing these plants. Any marijuana you harvest must be kept in a locked container away from the public eye. In addition, your plants must be grown indoors or inside an enclosed building.
What Can’t You Do?
If you think smoking recreational cannabis means you have the freedom to smoke wherever you want, you couldn’t be further from the truth. The state of California prohibits smoking marijuana in public. If you’re caught smoking in public, you could receive a $100 fine. In addition, you cannot consume cannabis near schools. You can’t have marijuana on school grounds either. Those who are underage, or under the age of 21, are prohibited from possessing marijuana in any amount.
You also can’t drive while high. Just like driving while under the influence of alcohol, you can and will be pulled over if California police officers suspect you’re driving while high. The state of California does not utilize breathalyzers to test for cannabis use, but you could be subjected to a saliva, blood, or urine test. Driving while high comes with grave consequences including heavy fines, suspended licenses, or jail time. Keep your marijuana in its sealed container away from the driver’s seat. Do not smoke and drive.
Facing charges due to cannabis use in California? Don’t go to court alone. Get in contact with the cannabis law attorneys at Hammerschmidt Law Corporation. Email us or give us a call to schedule a free consultation.