Home Cannabis Hawaii’s Marijuana Decriminalization Law Takes Effect – What You Must Understand

Hawaii’s Marijuana Decriminalization Law Takes Effect – What You Must Understand

July 7, 2023

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Hawaii became the latest state to decriminalize the possession of small amounts of marijuana on January 11, 2023. While the marijuana bill was approved by the Hawaii Senate, it has since stalled in the House of Representatives.

As a result, Hawaiians must continue to wait until recreational marijuana is legal in the Aloha state. When recreational marijuana is ultimately legalized, it will be critical to familiarize yourself with its stipulations to remain on the right side of the law.

In this post, we will go over the key points concerning Hawaii’s marijuana decriminalization law that you should be aware of. In the interim, residents can apply for a Hawaii medical marijuana card to gain access to medicinal cannabis.

Hawaii’s Marijuana Decriminalization Law – What Will it Mean for Hawaiians?

For starters, it is vital to understand that decriminalization is not the same as legalization. While decriminalization reduces the criminal punishment for small amounts of marijuana possession, it doesn’t mean that marijuana will be legal in Hawaii. Large-scale marijuana possession, cultivation, and distribution will continue to be unlawful and may result in criminal charges.

It is important to note that the decriminalization law only applies to persons above the age of 21, and recreational marijuana usage will remain illegal for those under the age of 21.

Adults aged 21 and older who possess three grams or less of marijuana will no longer face criminal penalties under the new law. Instead, they will face a civil violation and a $130 fine for their first offense. Subsequent crimes within two years may result in increased fines, community service, or drug education programs.

Another significant distinction is that the law differentiates between public and private possession. Possession of marijuana in a public place remains a criminal offense punishable by harsher penalties. Possession of modest amounts of marijuana in private places, such as one’s home, is subject to the previously mentioned civil offense and penalties.

It is also worth noting that while the new law decriminalizes marijuana possession, it does not permit people to smoke marijuana in public. It will remain illegal to smoke cannabis in public places such as parks, beaches, and sidewalks. Such infractions may result in fines and other penalties. As a result, understanding where and when it is legal to consume marijuana under Hawaaii’s new decriminalization law is critical.

Medical Marijuana in Hawaii

Hawaii’s decriminalization law does not alter the state’s existing medical marijuana program. The state’s medical marijuana patients will continue to have access to marijuana for medicinal purposes, subject to the regulations set forth by the Department of Health. These regulations include obtaining a Hawaii medical marijuana card online and purchasing marijuana from licensed dispensaries.

Patients in Hawaii can apply for a medical marijuana card via leading online providers such as MMJCardOnline by visiting their website, mmjcardonline.com. Together with its partners, MMJCardOnline speeds up the process of getting a medical marijuana card in Hawaii, saving qualifying patients time and money.

Hawaii Marijuana Law – What You Need to Know

Marijuana legalization in Hawaii seeks to minimize the burden on the criminal justice system by allocating resources to more severe offenses. It also reflects the changing popular perception of marijuana and the awareness of its possible therapeutic benefits.

To avoid unwittingly infringing the new law, residents and tourists visiting Hawaii should familiarize themselves with its stipulations. Understanding the quantity limits, public consumption prohibitions, and the distinction between decriminalization and legalization can help people manage the change more effectively.

Furthermore, keep in mind that laws evolve and alter over time, and it is always a good idea to stay up to date on any changes to the law by visiting official state sources of information.