Legality of Concentrates in Arizona
What We Know:
The Arizona Medical Marijuana Act (AMMA) passed by voters in 2010, making cannabis medically available in the state seems to some to be unclear on the subject of concentrates. The legislation defines “marijuana” and “hashish” as two different categories of cannabis, with only marijuana protected under the statutes of the AMMA. According to the lawmakers, hashish is “the resin extracted from the marijuana plant,” and acknowledged as the Schedule 1 narcotic drug, cannabis. If caught in possession of concentrated forms of cannabis, due to Arizona drug laws, one could be liable to face hefty fines and anywhere from six months to two years in jail. The AMMA defines “useable marijuana” as, “the dried flowers of the marijuana plant, and any mixture or preparation thereof, but does not include the seeds, stalks and roots of the plant and does not include the weight of any non-marijuana ingredients combined with marijuana and prepared for consumption as food or drink.” It would seem as though those set in place to oversee and uphold the laws in the state of Arizona have different interpretations of what this all means. One thing, however is clear, those making these decisions are uneducated on the subject of cannabis and the different ways patients find relief from their medicine. It would also appear that some aren’t particularly interested in educating themselves on the subject. Losing access to tinctures, oils, vapes, wax, and edibles would drastically change the way patients here in Arizona medicate. Concentrates often offer a more precise dosing as well as faster acting relief. Without access to these forms of medicine some medicinal patients may not be able to consume cannabis whatsoever, depending on their ailments. Not every patient can or wants to smoke flower. Patients should have the right to the form of cannabis they choose that offers the greatest relief.
What Happens Next:
For the time being our concentrates are relatively safe, many dispensaries have vocally opposed this decision and resolved not to take products off their shelves. This ruling can be appealed again, taking the case to a higher court in the state of Arizona. Until that time comes and the decision of the higher courts appeal is made, this law does stand. While it is still gray enough that it won’t likely pull products from shelves, it is a step in the wrong direction for the Arizona cannabis community. We as patients need to be careful with our concentrates so as not to find ourselves at odds with the law. Transport and consume intelligently and safely.
What Can We Do:
Continue to educate others about cannabis, share your story and let them know how cannabis has impacted your life. Continue to represent this community well, even in times of adversity and show the opposition that we have class and tact. Contact your local lawmakers, email or call your congressman, make your voice heard. Together we will stand and fight for our right to our medicine. We will keep you updated on this situation and any opportunities to get involved as they arise.