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Is marijuana legal in Arkansas

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Arkansas has taken a limited approach to cannabis legalization, permitting medical marijuana use while continuing to prohibit recreational weed under state law. For residents and visitors, understanding how Arkansas regulates medical cannabis, possession limits, dispensary access, and ongoing legalization efforts is essential to staying compliant. To explore how Arkansas compares with other regions, see our comprehensive resource on cannabis regulations across states, cities, and countries in the Cannabis Laws by Location guide.

Is Marijuana Legal in Arkansas
1. Recreational Marijuana: Illegal
  • Possession: Still a criminal offense.
    • Under 4 oz (first offense): Misdemeanor, up to 1 year jail + $2,500 fine.
    • Repeat offenses or higher quantities: Felony charges.
  • Cultivation: Illegal.
  • Sale/Distribution: Felony.
is marijuana legal in arkansas a
  • Authorized by: Arkansas Medical Marijuana Amendment (Amendment 98).
  • Requirements:
    • Must have a qualifying condition (e.g., cancer, PTSD, Crohn’s, severe pain).
    • Must receive physician certification.
    • Must register with the Arkansas Department of Health to receive a Medical Marijuana ID card.
3. Program Details:
  • Forms allowed: Flower, concentrates, edibles, tinctures, topicals.
  • Dispensaries: Over 35 state-licensed dispensaries operating.
  • Cultivation: Not allowed for patients—must purchase from dispensaries.
  • Age requirement: 18+ (minors allowed with guardian consent).
4. Restrictions:
  • Public use: Prohibited.
  • Driving under the influence: Illegal and penalized.
  • Advertising & packaging: Heavily regulated.
5. Recreational Legalization Attempts:
is marijuana legal in arkansas v
  • Issue 4 (2022): Failed ballot initiative to legalize adult-use cannabis.
  • Future outlook: Continued advocacy, but resistance remains strong in state legislature and among voters.

Summary:
Medical marijuana is legal under strict guidelines. Recreational use is fully prohibited and criminalized. No home growing is permitted, and all legal cannabis must be purchased through licensed dispensaries.