With the transition of 18 states fully legalizing adult-use cannabis, states like Louisiana are starting to make progress towards the same status. For state residents or people visiting who are asking “is weed legal in Louisiana,” knowing the current regulations in place can save you from a headache, fines, or even jail time.
Is Weed Legal in Louisiana: Recreational Use
Weed is currently illegal for recreational use in Louisiana. For citizens who suffer from health issues, the state does have a medical cannabis program. At its start, the medical program was one of the most restrictive in the country. The program did not allow for the sale of flower or concentrates. Since its fruition, the program has developed into a more open system. Even if enrolled in the program, smoking cannabis in public will be a ticketable offense under the Smoke-Free Air Act.
While the state has a long way to go in the realm of legalization, legislators are currently working on future cannabis reforms. In 2021, a bill that would have set up a tax structure for adult-use cannabis was denied in the House. These types of bills are only allowed in old-number years. As a result, the bill will have to wait to be reintroduced until 2023. Another step that Louisiana has taken to reform its cannabis policy is to pardon 10,000 cannabis possession convictions and pending charges.
Is Weed Decriminalized?
Taking reform a step further, small amounts of cannabis have been decriminalized in Louisiana. According to the Marijuana Policy Project, “This law will save thousands of Louisianans from being incarcerated for small amounts of cannabis”. The penalty for possession up to 14 grams–just under a half-ounce–was lowered to $100. Instead of an arrest, the offense will now be enforced similar to a traffic ticket.
People visiting or living in the state can expect further changes in Louisianna’s cannabis policy as legislation evolves.
