Every state issues its own medical marijuana cards to patients applying for the medical card with qualifying medical and psychological conditions. The qualifying conditions are different in each state, as is the registry.
This means that patients in Ohio who obtain their MMJ card are approved to use the card throughout the state at any approved dispensary. This makes it easy for patients to travel within the state of Ohio and purchase medical marijuana.
However, traveling outside of the state is more problematic. It is important for patients in Ohio to know that transporting medical marijuana across state lines is a federal drug offense. This is true even if the patient has a current MMJ card and is traveling to a state that recognizes medical marijuana as legal.
Reciprocity
Some states are willing to consider reciprocity, which means the dispensary will accept valid MMJ card from other states. However, patients need to recognize that this is not always possible.
Temporary Resident Status and Other Options
Some states do offer the option for temporary residents to obtain a medical marijuana card if they meet specific requirements. There are also some states that allow a patient to apply for a medical marijuana card if they are receiving care as a patient in that state.
In a few states, patients with medical marijuana cards have the option to legally purchase marijuana for recreational use. The number of states recognizing legal recreational cannabis is still small, but it is increasing, making traveling easier for patients using medical marijuana.
