Arkansas Cannabis Laws & Regulations (2024)

Arkansas's journey with cannabis legislation has been marked by both caution and progress. While the state has taken steps to accommodate medical cannabis use, it remains conservative regarding recreational use. Understanding Arkansas's specific cannabis laws and regulations is essential for both medical patients and general residents to ensure compliance and avoid potential legal issues. 

Is Medical Cannabis Legal in Arkansas? 

Yes, medical cannabis is legal in Arkansas. The state passed the Arkansas Medical Marijuana Amendment in 2016, which allows patients with qualifying conditions to obtain and use medical cannabis. This legislation was a significant milestone, acknowledging cannabis's therapeutic potential and providing relief to many residents. 

Arkansas Medical Cannabis Purchase & Possession Limits 

To balance accessibility with regulation, Arkansas has established purchase and possession limits for medical cannabis patients. These limits ensure that patients have access to their medicine while preventing excess accumulation and potential diversion. 

Medical Cannabis Purchase Limits in Arkansas

In Arkansas, patients registered under the medical marijuana program are subject to specific purchase limits to ensure responsible use and adherence to state law. For medical marijuana flower, patients can purchase up to 2.5 ounces (about 70.87 g), from a dispensary every 14 days.  

As for concentrates, the law does not specify a separate limit. Therefore, the total amount of marijuana products, including concentrates, cannot exceed the 2.5-ounce limit within the bi-weekly period. This regulation is designed to monitor and regulate the amount of medical marijuana a patient can legally obtain, ensuring it's used solely for therapeutic purposes. 

Medical Cannabis Possession Limits in Arkansas

When it comes to possession, Arkansas has clear guidelines for registered medical marijuana patients. The possession limits mirror the purchase limits closely. Patients may possess up to 2.5 ounces (about 70.87 g), of medical marijuana flower at any given time.  

This limit also applies to a combination of marijuana products, including concentrates. It's important to note that exceeding these possession limits can result in legal consequences, underscoring the importance of adhering to state regulations. 

Is Recreational Cannabis Legal in Arkansas? 

No, recreational cannabis is not legal in Arkansas. Efforts to legalize recreational use have been made, including proposed initiatives and public discussions, but none have successfully changed the law yet. Thus, residents and visitors should be mindful of the legal landscape to avoid unintended violations. 

Where Can You Consume Cannabis in Arkansas? 

In Arkansas, the consumption of medical cannabis is restricted to private properties away from public view. It is illegal to consume cannabis, whether smoking, vaping, or ingesting edibles, in public places, including parks, streets, and businesses.  

Moreover, cannabis consumption is prohibited on federal land and in vehicles. Patients are encouraged to use their medicine discreetly and responsibly. 

What is the Tax Rate for Cannabis in Arkansas? 

Cannabis taxation in Arkansas is applied to medical cannabis sales. The state imposes a 6.5% state sales tax on medical cannabis purchases at dispensaries, in addition to any local taxes that may apply. This tax revenue contributes to the state's budget, funding various public services.  

Understanding Arkansas Cannabis Laws 

Navigating the cannabis laws in Arkansas requires a clear understanding of what is permitted under the state's medical cannabis program and what remains prohibited on the recreational front. By familiarizing themselves with the purchase and possession limits, consumption guidelines, and taxation policies, Arkansas residents and medical cannabis patients can ensure they use cannabis legally and responsibly.  

Frequently Asked Questions About Cannabis Laws in Arkansas

Expand your knowledge and take a look at common questions others have asked when exploring cannabis use in Arkansas.

**Disclaimer:** While our goal is to provide you with the most accurate and up-to-date information on Arkansas's cannabis laws, we recognize that the landscape of cannabis legislation is dynamic and can change rapidly. As such, there may be times when new legal amendments or updates occur faster than we can reflect them on our landing page. For this reason, we highly encourage you to consult directly with official local government websites or authorized state resources for the most current information regarding Arkansas cannabis laws. This approach ensures that you have access to reliable and timely data, helping you stay informed and compliant. We appreciate your understanding and diligence in this matter.