Limitations on who can use medical marijuana in New Jersey are still strict, so it’s no surprise that there are many regulations concerning how the drug is transported.
If you have a prescription for medical marijuana, read on to learn how to avoid issues with law enforcement while traveling with medicinal marijuana or paraphernalia.
Those who have been diagnosed with a debilitating medical condition by a New Jersey physician registered with the Medical Marijuana program may obtain a prescription to lawfully possesses the otherwise illegal substance. However, if you are transporting it, it’s best to follow these tips to avoid unnecessary complications with the law:
- Carry your MMP card and driver’s license or other official identification on your person
- Do no remove medical marijuana for its original packaging
- Only transport small amounts of medical marijuana when absolutely necessary
- Do not attempt to transport medical marijuana across state lines — despite the legality of the substance in surrounding states
- Do not possess marijuana obtained from a source other than a New Jersey dispensary — even dispensaries from other states
- Do not drive while under the influence of medicinal marijuana
- Do not smoke medical marijuana on school grounds, near a correctional facility, at a public park, beach or other public place.
Medical marijuana penalties
Forging a marijuana registry identification card is a Disorderly Persons misdemeanor offense, which could lead you to face up to 6 months jail time and a fine of up to $500.
For medical marijuana patients in New Jersey, possession of more than two ounces of marijuana per month or possession of a marijuana plant is illegal. However, penalties may vary depending on the amount the patient possesses.
However, some politicians project that recreational marijuana could be legal in the state of New Jersey by the end of September. In which case, laws revolving around travelling with the substance would likely focus from a state-to-state perspective.
If you are facing charges for using medical marijuana without a prescription or a police officer has infringed upon your right to use medical marijuana, contact a criminal defense attorney for help. A lawyer can give you detailed legal advice as it pertains to your unique situation.
