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The Status of Cannabis Legalization in District of Columbia

Washington DC Medical Marijuana Laws

In Washington DC, adults aged 21 or older can possess up to two ounces of marijuana and grow up to six plants in their primary residence, with no more than three being mature at one time, without facing penalties. Public use of marijuana is considered a misdemeanor but is typically handled through a cite and release procedure. Possession of more than two ounces of marijuana without a doctor's recommendation is also a misdemeanor, punishable by up to six months of incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000. Distribution, manufacture, or possession with intent to distribute can lead to imprisonment for up to five years and a fine of up to $50,000. Hashish is classified as a Schedule II drug in Washington DC. Possession or sale of paraphernalia for individuals 21 years or older who use, grow, or process marijuana is permitted under the law.

Cannabis Policy Reform Timeline

The regulation of pharmacy practice and the sale of marijuana in the District of Columbia was introduced in an act by Congress in 1906, limiting cannabis to licensed pharmacists and prescription. In 1998, Initiative 59, which sought to legalize medical cannabis, was approved by 69% of voters, but its implementation was delayed by Congress. The Barr Amendment, which delayed the start of the medical marijuana program, was effectively overturned in 2009. In 2010, the Council of the District of Columbia passed a bill legalizing medical marijuana, which became officially legal in 2011. The first legal purchase of medical cannabis at a dispensary in the District of Columbia occurred in 2013. In 2014, the Council decriminalized possession of cannabis. Initiative 71, a voter-approved ballot initiative legalizing recreational cannabis, was approved by 64.87% of voters in November 2014 and fully implemented in February 2015.

Possession Limits in the District of Columbia

Adults 21 years of age or older in the District of Columbia can possess up to two ounces of marijuana in their primary residence without penalty. They can also transfer up to one ounce of marijuana to another person 21 years of age or older without payment.