Marijuana is still illegal for recreational use in Louisiana, but the state has allowed medical marijuana since 2019 for patients with qualifying conditions. The legal status of certain hemp-derived THC products has been murky, leading to a proliferation of products like THC gummies, seltzers, and other edibles in a regulatory gray area.
Now state lawmakers are set to bring clarity by deciding if these products should be banned, more tightly regulated, or allowed to remain relatively unrestricted.
The Benefits of a Medical Marijuana Card
For those suffering from approved conditions like cancer, seizure disorders, PTSD, and more, getting a medical marijuana card in Louisiana allows legal access to marijuana products from licensed dispensaries. This provides a safe, controlled supply of marijuana that can provide relief when other treatments have failed. Chronic pain patients in particular have found THC and CBD products to be helpful alternatives to addictive opioid painkillers.
While the medical program has strict rules, it at least provides a legal avenue for those who need it most. However, the rise of novel hemp-derived products poses new challenges for regulators.
Hemp Loopholes and Inconsistent Enforcement
Both marijuana and hemp are derived from the marijuana plant, with hemp being defined as having less than 0.3% THC content. This opened the door for businesses to create hemp-based consumables like gummies and drinks that provide a mild high despite their low overall THC levels.
Louisiana quickly approved a hemp program after the 2018 Farm Bill legalized industrial hemp production. But some lawmakers claim they didn't realize hemp product regulations would lead to these quasi-legal THC products hitting the market.
Inconsistent enforcement by state agencies has exacerbated the situation. An April 2023 audit found the Louisiana Department of Health had improperly approved products over the THC limit and lacked processes to remove non-compliant items. Alcohol and Tobacco Control admitted struggling to properly regulate the 2,500+ locations selling hemp products statewide.
A Compromise or a Ban?
To bring order, legislators are weighing two main proposals. Rep. Dustin Miller's HB 952 seeks a middle ground, allowing THC products to remain legal but with tighter testing, packaging, and serving size rules. It would also empower regulators to revoke business permits after just one violation in egregious cases.
On the other side, Sen. Thomas Pressly's SB 237 would simply ban manufacturing or selling any consumable hemp products, a devastating blow to the emerging industry.
Lawmakers must weigh health concerns around unregulated intoxicants against the economic interests of Louisiana hemp businesses that have invested heavily. Compromises like Miller's bill attempt to strike a balance between public safety and protecting legal businesses operating in good faith.
Why Get a Medical Marijuana Card?
For patients suffering from qualifying conditions, getting a medical marijuana card is the clear legal choice in Louisiana. The program provides a robust testing and safety protocol, allowing access to controlled marijuana products that can provide significant symptom relief and improve quality of life.
While non-medical hemp consumables create a legal gray area, the medical program is unambiguously legitimate and regulated. Those who could benefit should consult their doctor about joining nearly 50,000 other Louisianans who have obtained a card since 2019.
With lawmakers set to decide on THC products in the coming session, the medical marijuana program remains the trusted option for secure access to marijuana therapeutics. Clearing up hemp laws will ideally create a simpler landscape, but only the medical track offers complete legality and oversight.
Get Your Medical Marijuana Card Today!
Medical marijuana is legal in the State of Louisiana, and you can get your medical marijuana card today! It is now easier than ever to get your card, so if you think marijuana may benefit you, what are you waiting for?
If you aren’t sure if you qualify for a card, we can help! Just give us a call and we can answer any questions you may have.
Marijuana is an excellent alternative medicine that offers natural, safe, and legal relief for an array of symptoms. If you think marijuana could help some of your symptoms, what are you waiting for?
Schedule an evaluation online today with one of our knowledgeable, compassionate doctors to see if you qualify for your medical card. Not only will you discuss your condition and options, but you can do so through a virtual appointment in the safety of your own home!
Doctors Who Care.
Relief You Can Trust.
At Louisiana Marijuana Card, our mission is helping everyone achieve wellness safely and conveniently through increased access to medical marijuana. Our focus on education, inclusion, and acceptance will reduce the stigma for our patients by providing equal access to timely information and compassionate care.
Call us at (833) 253-2943, or simply book a medical marijuana evaluation to start getting relief you can trust today!
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