Cannabis State Laws

The cannabis industry is developing at a rapid rate in some parts of the U.S. However, the opportunities associated with entering the industry are very state-dependent and this can be confusing for aspiring business owners.

Some states have legalized recreational cannabis as well as medical cannabis usage, with retail dispensaries widely available. Others have legalized only medical cannabis, some have decriminalized it without legalizing it, some states have legalized only low-THC CBD oil, and others have retained traditional laws banning the use of cannabis in any form.

Every state except two has legalized cannabis in some form but the laws remain confusing for many—and possession remains a felony crime even in some states where medical usage is permitted.

Attitudes are changing towards cannabis, so we should expect some state governments to embrace change quicker than others.

As you weigh up the opportunities and risks associated with starting a cannabis business, it is important to understand the relevant cannabis laws in your state. The regulations can be highly restrictive but must be observed or the risks can be substantial.

At Cannabis Law Solutions, we can support you if you are trying to start, establish or grow a cannabis business in states where cannabis is fully legal, i.e., cannabis use has been decriminalized and medical/recreational use is allowed. This includes the states of Connecticut, Montana, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, and Virginia.

Cannabis state laws are changing fast so it helps to have a single source to depend on for the latest information that may affect your business decisions wherever you are based.

Our experienced attorneys can help you with your cannabis business in the following states where cannabis has been legalized:

Connecticut 

Cannabis is decriminalized in Connecticut but you can still be convicted of a felony crime if you possess it in larger amounts. Medical cannabis treatment has been available for many years for patients with a long list of ailments.

Since 2021, cannabis has been legalized and is now regulated and taxed. We have a comprehensive understanding of the regulations in Connecticut and can help you capitalize on the opportunities provided for licensing in all sectors of the growing industry there.

Montana

In 2020, Montana voted to legalize the recreational use of cannabis for adults aged 21 or over but funding issues slowed the legalization.

As of January 2022, adults in Montana can now purchase cannabis from licensed retail stores across the state and locals can possess up to one ounce and four plants.

As the cannabis industry beds down and becomes more established in Montana, we can help your business overcome the legal hurdles and position itself to benefit from the growth in demand.

New Jersey 

New Jersey voted for the state constitution to be amended to allow recreational cannabis for adults ages 21 and older in 2020. As of late 2021, the laws regarding the legalization of cannabis were still being developed and previous laws against cannabis were still in effect.

The Cannabis Regulatory Commission (CRC) is expected to finalize the rules for the cultivation, manufacture, and sale of adult-use cannabis in New Jersey soon and we can help prepare your business for when this happens.

New Mexico

New Mexico decriminalized recreational cannabis in 2019 and legalized it in 2021. This follows the implementation of a well-established medical cannabis program that has been running in the state for many years.

Qualifying residents can now possess eight ounces over a 90-day period and a total of 16 plants.

The attorneys at Cannabis Law Solutions have helped many business owners in the state ready themselves for the opportunities presented by the recent law changes—and we are here to assist you in doing so too.

New York

Cannabis was decriminalized some years ago in New York and, for many years, the state has had a medical cannabis program that permits non-smokable products for people with certain conditions.

In 2021, New York finally legalized cannabis for adult recreational use after years of discussion. Adults over 21 may now possess up to three ounces of cannabis and grow up to six plants.

If you are looking to set up a cannabis business in New York, our informed and knowledgeable attorneys can help you navigate the considerable legal issues.

Virginia 

While medical cannabis has been legal for several years in Virginia, in 2021 the state became the first in the South (and the 17th in the U.S.) to legalize cannabis for adult recreational usage. This followed the decriminalization of cannabis in 2020.

Adult residents can now legally possess and share up to one ounce of cannabis and cultivate up to four cannabis plants.

If you are based in Virginal and looking to enter or expand in the cannabis industry there, our cannabis attorneys understand the local laws and can guide you through the legal hurdles.

Cannabis business legal planning, advice, and support

Whether you plan to grow, manufacture, retail, or otherwise be part of the burgeoning cannabis industry, understanding the local state cannabis laws is key.

Whether you are based in Connecticut, Montana, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, or Virginia, our cannabis business attorneys can provide tailored support for planning, incorporating, protecting, and growing your business legally and responsibly.

Our cannabis business attorneys can help you prepare and apply for your cannabis business license.  Call 866-329-0729 for a consultation with a knowledgeable cannabis attorney at Cannabis Law Solutions.

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How will our cannabis and psychedelic business services help you

Cannabis & psychedelics business entity formation

Whether you are looking to form a limited liability company (LLC) or a corporation, our experienced business lawyers can discuss the pros and cons of both and help you incorporate your business with the optimal structure to achieve your goals.

Cannabis & psychedelics business licenses

If you want to run a cannabis or psychedelics business, you will need a valid business license issued by your state authority as well as local permits. Eligibility criteria are likely to be stringent and we can help you navigate the often-complex license application process.

Cannabis & psychedelics corporate documentation

Whether you need to prepare for a license application, transfer of business ownership, change of corporate structure, transfer business location or another business process, we can help you identify and draft the documentation you need to operate legally in your state.

Cannabis & psychedelics administrative law

State authorities watch licensed and unlicensed cannabis and psychedelics businesses closely. If you violate regulations, you could face an administrative penalty. Our attorneys can provide representation or help you prepare for an administrative hearing, settlement conference or appeal.

Cannabis & psychedelics disputes and litigation

Whether you have a dispute with another business, a legal issue with one of your partners or a licensing or administrative issue, you may need legal assistance to help resolve it. We are adept at alternative dispute resolution methods as well as civil litigation.

Cannabis & psychedelics regulatory compliance

As the cannabis and psychedelics industries emerge in states around the U.S., they are more heavily regulated than most other industries. We can help your business navigate the red tape and plan to stay on the right side of the regulatory authorities in whichever state you are based.