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Cannabis Business Laws and Info

By Olivia Wathne, Esq. | Legally reviewed by Amber Sheppard, Esq. | Last reviewed June 14, 2023

This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by FindLaw’s team of legal writers and attorneys and in accordance with our editorial standards.

The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our contributing authors. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please contact an attorney in your area.

Public opinion on cannabis has changed over a short period. More and more Americans are supporting marijuana legalization. Federal prohibition of cannabis forces each state to pass unique cannabis legislation. This has created a tangle of conflicting state and federal laws.

Sometimes the differences in states' cannabis laws are drastic. Often, the goal of these laws is to maintain public health. The other goal is to prevent the unlawful distribution of marijuana to minors. Violating these laws can result in significant challenges for business owners. Cannabis business owners need to understand their state's cannabis laws to succeed. A cannabis attorney can help you navigate your state's cannabis transportation laws.

 See here for a state-specific guide on current state laws for medical marijuana use. 

Disclaimer: Cannabis regulations in your state may have changed recently. Be sure to check with your state government or an attorney.

  • Federal and State Laws and Your Pot Business

    Many states have legalized both medical and recreational marijuana. The cultivation, possession, and sale of cannabis products remains illegal at the federal level. Federal law enforcement still considers the possession of marijuana a misdemeanor offense. The seriousness of the offense may depend on your criminal record. Another factor is how many ounces of cannabis are found in your possession. You can operate a cannabis business while protecting yourself from federal criminal charges.

  • Medical Marijuana Laws Affecting Your Business

    This is your state-by-state guide to laws relating to medical marijuana dispensaries. Some states may only allow the medical use of marijuana. Other states may allow the sale of both medical and recreational cannabis. The legal sale of medical cannabis for qualifying conditions is available in these states.

  • Marijuana Statistics: What It Looks Like in 2023

    The debate surrounding the legalization of marijuana still exists and varies across jurisdictions. Some states allow individuals to grow cannabis plants for personal use. Other states ban marijuana altogether. Cannabis law statistics and surveys in the United States are here.

  • Marijuana Vote: The Legal History

    Marijuana was first grown across the United States as industrial hemp. Then President Nixon signed the Controlled Substances Act into law. This classified marijuana as a Schedule I drug. Many states have decriminalized marijuana. Dispensaries sell marijuana products ranging from edibles to cannabis concentrates.

  • Highly-Regulated Marijuana Businesses

    The risks are great for cannabis entrepreneurs in today's regulatory climate. The rewards are great as well. The cannabis industry continues to grow as more states legalize adult-use cannabis. It is important to determine which type of cannabis business you want to open. For example, different regulations may apply to cannabis growers versus cannabis dispensaries.

  • Medical Marijuana Laws by State

    Some states only allow terminally ill patients 21 years of age or older to use medical marijuana. Ohio allows medicinal use of cannabis products for Parkinson's, epilepsy, and other illnesses. Other states, such as New York, allow caregivers to buy medical cannabis for medical marijuana patients. There are nine states where marijuana is illegal but allow low THC, high cannabidiol (CBD) products for medical purposes.

  • Marinol vs. Medical Marijuana

    Marinol is a prescription drug containing a synthetic form of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). In 1985, the FDA approved Marinol. Marinol treats qualifying medical conditions, such as muscle spasticity related to multiple sclerosis. Marijuana is different than Marinol because it contains cannabinoids as well as THC. Learn about its legality, its use, and how it compares to medical marijuana.

  • Marijuana Delivery Service Laws

    Different states have different regulations for cannabis delivery businesses. For instance, it is illegal in Massachusetts to deliver cannabis for recreational use. Yet, retail locations can sell it. Learn the specific laws of your state before going into this type of business.

  • Legal Information About Marijuana Stocks

    Investors have plenty of opportunities to become part of the budding cannabis industry. Cannabis investing and financing have unique risks and rewards.

  • Transporting Marijuana: Laws and Regulations

    Transporting marijuana products presents several legal issues. Under federal law, it is illegal to transport marijuana across state lines. States also have strict policies to consider.

You Don’t Have To Solve This on Your Own – Get a Lawyer’s Help

Meeting with a lawyer can help you understand your options and how to best protect your rights. Visit our attorney directory to find a lawyer near you who can help.

Or contact an attorney near you:

Next Steps: Find a Local Attorney

Working in the cannabis industry means facing strict and conflicting regulations. Get help from a lawyer experienced in cannabis law.

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