At this time, cannabis is legal for many reasons in California, including for medicinal purposes. As of January 1, 2017, all adults over the age of 21 can buy and sell cannabis in California with a license.
Before November 4, 2014, people could apply for a controlled cannabis permit to purchase and possess up to an ounce of cannabis. After that date, people can still apply if they are at least 18 years old and have been admitted to a hospital or jail because of drug use.
If you are under the age of 26, you cannot apply for at least four months due to state law until it is no longer illegal to apply. You can still help promote fairness and inclusivity by being on your government-issued-paperticket as soon as possible!
Bullet point:controlled cannabis sales are now open
Before November 4, 2014 there were two types of licenses that could be applied for by individuals: microbusinesses (less than $150,000 in gross revenue annually) or large companies (more than $150K). These have been the only two types of licenses since April 1, 2015.
The history of cannabis social equity programs
The term cannabis social equity program (or cannabis equity program for short) was first introduced in the United Kingdom in 2008. At that time, it referred to a set of policies and strategies aimed at removing obstacles to accessing low-cost, quality cannabis.
These include providing financial assistance, outreach programs, and access to legal drugs such as heroin. As the term is more recent compared to drug policy terminology, it has been used more frequently.
Since its introduction in the United Kingdom, the term cannabis social equity program has been used around the world. Some countries have adapted the term for their own programs and policies and others have disowned it due to its apparent political agenda.
This article will take a closer look at the history of the term, discuss some of the countries that use it, and offer some tips for promoting fairness and inclusivity in your country’s program.
Who are eligible for cannabis social equity programs?
Yours? Are you a low-income person who needs an affordable way to get high? Then a cannabis social equity program is for you!
Cannabis social equity programs are designed for people who are less fortunate and don’t have access to legal recreational marijuana. They aim to make it easier for people to transition from mainstream drug use to education and treatment, as well as community support.
The programs typically include free or low-cost access to marijuana, along with educational and treatment services. Most states require at least some form of drug addiction treatment before eligibility can be granted, making it an essential part of the program.
The states that have instituted cannabis social equity programs are doing so because it helps lower crime, improve public health and safety, and reduce criminal behavior. In fact, one study found that people who were in the program were less likely to engage in crime than those who did not attend drug court.
Where are cannabis social equity programs available?
In California, there are two main ways to get a cannabis social equity program. The first is through a sheriff’s office or police department. These departments typically work with other law enforcement agencies to create a program.
The second is through a non-profit organization that develops and operates a cannabis social equity program. Most of these organizations are run by a board of directors, not just one person.
These board members may be from different communities or cultural groups. For example, they can be people who promote wellness and anti-bullying policies in their organization.
There are some programs that require you to be already involved in the community to join a program. Others require you to be newly involved to receive funding for your program.
What products are available under cannabis social equity programs?
There are four main products available under cannabis social equity programs in California: cannabis, medical marijuana, legal cannabis, and supplements. Apps and devices are also accepted under these programs.
The main difference between the products is which ones qualify for the program and which ones do not. For example, medical marijuana is not eligible for the app or device system.
There are five priority groups that receive priority over others when applying for a cannbis social equity program membership: homeless people, people with mental health problems, people with substance use disorders, parents of children with mental health problems, and former users who want to return to using cannbis as an alternative to alcohol or other drugs.
How do I participate in a cannabis social equity program?
There are a variety of ways to get involved in a cannabis social equity program. Some of these include: joining a committee, serving on a committee, teaching a class, creating an activity or program, or even just going to the meeting to listen and learn about the programs and how they impact my community.
Committees are popular ways to get involved as they can make small but powerful changes towards an issue or community. Serving on a committee can be difficult because you have to put in your time and effort every week.
Because this takes attention and effort, people that can find volunteer opportunities with little effort should look into cannabis social equity programs.
Some things you can do on your own, but it would be helpful to learn how others work at the chapter or local level for more help.
Do I need to be a California resident to participate?
No, anyone can enter into a cannabis social equity program. However, you must be connected to the program to receive your equity reward.
To participate in a cannabis social equity program in California, you must be affiliated with the organization that is administering the program. Most programs are affiliated with a local government or group of groups, such as an apartment association or neighborhood association.
It is up to the administrator of the program how often they update their database and add new members to their list of approved members. Many times, new members are invited by existing members who have been approved by the organization.
Do not let limited membership numbers deter you from joining an equitable cannabis social equity program! There are plenty out there that offer this opportunity for inclusion and rewards for contributing members.
What identification do I need to present?
In order to participate in a cannbis equity program in California, you must be at least 18 years of age and have a valid driver’s license or state-issued ID.
To join, you must complete an application and submit your documentation. Once approved, your agent can refer you to local resources such as police support services or housing assistance programs.
To stay involved, your agent must periodically update the program and provide help in case of need. Your agent also needs to take responsibility for their client if they leave the program or go missing.
It is very important that agents keep their clients connected with their programs so that people who need help can find you.
How much can I purchase at one time?
At cannabis shops, you can purchase up to an ounce of marijuana or 24 grams of concentrate. If you want more, you can buy another ounce or gram of marijuana or another dose of concentrate.
The maximum amount a buyer can have in one visit is four ounces. That is why many people purchase small amounts at a time- to save money!
Some dispensaries offer more than one type of marijuana. For example, there may be medical marijuana products, like oil and gel, that are sold as combinations of THC and CBD.
To determine if your dispensary has enough space for expansion, ask about how much storage area they have available inside the shop. You may need to add members to your account to see if they have enough space for expansion.
