Cannabis in West Virginia is illegal for recreational use, but partially decriminalized in the city of Morgantown.[1] Possession of small amounts is a misdemeanor crime.[2] Medical use was legalized in 2017 through legislation signed by Governor Jim Justice.
Medical cannabis[edit]
Medical cannabis bills were introduced in West Virginia in each year between 2010 and 2015,[3] when Senate Bill 546 and House Bill 2909 sought to legalize cannabis for medical use, but failed to advance prior to the end of the legislative session on March 14.[4]
In 2017, Senate Bill 386 was passed, legalizing medical cannabis for specific chronic medical conditions. Governor Justice signed it into law on April 19, 2017, and it went into effect in July 2018.[5][6] However, dhhr.wv.gov states it wasn't until July 1, 2019, that effects of the law would allow the state to "issue the patient and caregiver identification cards necessary to obtain medical cannabis."
References[edit]
- ^ West Virginia Local Decriminalization
- ^ West Virginia Laws & Penalties
- ^ "Parkersburg officials not interested in marijuana decriminalization". Parkersburg News and Sentinel. August 15, 2015. Retrieved August 27, 2015.
- ^ Madalyn LaMastro; Nick Villano; Steven Laks; Samantha Valentine (April 29, 2015). "Despite new highs, medical Marijuana doesn't pass in West Virginia — this year". The Exponent Telegram. Retrieved August 27, 2015.
- ^ "Senate passes medical marijuana bill". West Virginia MetroNews Network. Retrieved March 31, 2017.
- ^ "WV governor signs medical marijuana into law". Charleston Gazette-Mail. Retrieved April 20, 2017.