Table of Contents
Is marijuanas legalized in South Carolina
1. Recreational Use:
- Illegal.
- Possession of up to 1 ounce: misdemeanor, up to 30 days jail and $100–$200 fine (first offense).
- Felonies may be charged for repeated offenses.
- No decriminalization or tolerance for adult-use cannabis.
2. Medical Use:
- Extremely limited.
- Only low-THC, high-CBD oil permitted under Julian’s Law (2014).
- Allowed for patients with severe epilepsy.
- Oil must contain <0.9% THC and ≥15% CBD.
- No in-state production or legal purchase system.
3. Medical Legalization Efforts:
- South Carolina Compassionate Care Act (most recently proposed in 2024):
- Would legalize medical cannabis for conditions like cancer, PTSD, chronic pain.
- Passed Senate but stalled in House due to conservative opposition.
- Emphasized tight regulation and doctor oversight.
- Not yet enacted into law.
4. Hemp and CBD Products:
- Legal under federal and state law if derived from industrial hemp (<0.3% THC).
- Available in stores statewide.
- Marijuana-derived products remain illegal.
5. Public Sentiment & Outlook:
- Growing public and bipartisan support for medical marijuana.
- Law enforcement and key lawmakers remain resistant.
- No timeline for recreational or full medical legalization.
Conclusion:
As of 2025, South Carolina does not allow recreational or comprehensive medical marijuana use. Only highly restricted CBD oil is permitted for epilepsy. Despite legislative efforts, marijuana legalization remains blocked by state lawmakers.
