Virtual Cannabis Events to Happen in Virginia

Cannabis is officially legal in Virginia, but there are certain regulations that may cause confusion. However, since the epidemic, many virtual events have been organized and are set to take place. In this post, you'll learn about many types of cannabis-related events, conferences, and other meetings.

Cannabis Status in Virginia

Let's start by talking about the legal status of cannabis in Virginia. Medical cannabis is allowed in Virginia for qualifying illnesses, but adult, or recreational, cannabis usage is still prohibited until June 30, 2021. Adults 21 and older will be capable of having up to 1 ounce or 28 grams of marijuana and grow up to four plants per home after that.

In July of 2020, Virginia decriminalized marijuana, making the maximum punishment for having up to 1 ounce of the drug a $25 fine that does not appear on a person's criminal record.

But where did the legalization of cannabis in Virginia begin? In July of 2020, Virginia decriminalized marijuana, making the maximum punishment for having up to 1 ounce of the drug a $25 fine that does not appear on a person's criminal record.

The General Assembly passed a measure in 2017 that allowed for restricted cannabis production and dispensing, as well as access to CBD or THCA oil for patients with intractable epilepsy. Gov. Ralph Northam signed a law in 2018 that expanded access to medicinal marijuana to more Virginians by enabling physicians to recommend it to any patient who may benefit from it.

Furthermore, Virginia's legislature enacted Senate Bill 1406 and House Bill 2312, making it the first southern state to legalize cannabis and the fourth to do so through legislation. The law was amended to allow possession of up to an ounce of cannabis and the production of up to four plants per home beginning July 1, 2021, rather than 2024, as originally planned.

The Cannabis Control Authority and other entities formed by the bill will have time to build the required framework for regulating and supervising cultivation, production, distribution, and retail sales before the rest of the bill takes effect on July 1, 2024.

Events in Virginia

NCIA Cannabis Industry Business Conference

The #IndustryEssentials educational webinar series is NCIA's new digital platform, which includes a range of programs to give you relevant, engaging, and important information when and where you need it most. All NCIA #IndustryEssentials training webinars are free of charge for NCIA members.

The cost of a non-member pass is $15. NCIA's Catalyst Conversations Series is an intensive webinar series designed to provide Social Equity Scholarship program participants the chance to network and learn vital knowledge that will help them succeed in the cannabis business.

This panel will feature veteran operators, consultants, and technical help providers who will provide guiding principles and advice on how to get started, whether you want to apply for a license or establish a side company.

Cannabis and COVID-19 - Research and Implications

This online conference will bring together academics and clinicians from all around the world who are researching the benefits of specific cannabis strains and mixes on COVID-19 and the impact the virus has on medicinal cannabis patients and adult cannabis users.

CannaCon

CannaCon will bring together like-minded people to debate the latest industry developments, bringing together leading founders and businesses with financiers and professionals. Discover the next era of cannabis trends and consumer products, as well as the trends that will shape the market in 2019 and beyond.

CannaCon is committed to forming and developing long-term relationships in the cannabis business. Its mission is to provide a global platform for cannabis businesses, entrepreneurs, investors, and community partners to showcase industry products, experts, and innovations, as well as to cultivate business values within the cannabis industry through education and responsible community participation.

 

Cannabis News Updates in Virginia

Marijuana seeds are not allowed to buy or sell in Virginia, but they are lawful to share. A civil penalty of not more than $25 will be imposed on anybody discovered in possession of more than 1 ounce of cannabis but not more than 1 pound.

A felony prosecution can be filed against anyone who is found in possession of more than one pound of marijuana. Cannabis-related items are only available for purchase or sale at dispensaries affiliated with the state's medicinal marijuana program. The state legislation that governs possession with the intent to distribute is still in effect.

So, while the new legislation doesn't specify how much pot an adult can have at home, anyone who has any amount of marijuana with the intent to distribute it can be prosecuted.

Weed cannot be consumed or brought in cars in open or easily accessible packages by drivers or passengers. It should be kept in a secured trunk or back compartment, according to advocates.

The Bottom Line

Recently, Virginia legalizes the medicinal and recreational use of cannabis. However, the laws and regulations are quite confusing, so it would be best to always check on the rules of every locations you want to visit, specially when it comes in cannabis use. This way, you can prevent being punished by the law.

Cannabis Noteworthy Events You Should Know

The ever-expanding cannabis culture has always been a diverse collective. It is still a surge in demand, particularly after a string of victories over the years. If more states legalize cannabis, more consumers will have access to it. As the new green economy grows at a breakneck rate, different expos and conferences are springing up throughout the United States and beyond.

Conferences and activities are some of the community's most energizing features. These events provide a platform for people to display s their business skills and various cannabis studies and discoveries. It also serves as a venue for appreciating what the plant has to deliver.

There are several activities planned not only in the DMV but throughout the United States. Read on to learn more.

Cannabis Expos and Events of 2021

Cannabis Cooking Class (April 3, 2021)

Boston, MA

Cannabis Cooking Class will be held on April 3, 2021. Attendees will learn how to cook with cannabis in a small live online community with expert mentors at this gathering. As the Soul Fresh crew brings science and a relaxed environment to a device near you, you'll be doing your home cooking live alongside them.

You'll also learn how to make your weed infusion and use it to make salves and delectable recipes. Attendees can get a comprehensive multimedia class booklet with content lists and recipes as a token.

ENTERING CANNABIS: The Global Landscape (April 20, 2021)

Washington, D.C.

Expert panels with the industry's most prominent global thought leaders and immersive expo booths with top brands will be included at this gathering. The group will share useful and actionable information on the current and potential Global Landscape of legislative, industry, agriculture, regulation, science, and other innovations.

Cannabis Conviction Expungement Clinic (April 25, 2021)

Baltimore, MD

Sponsored by Fells Point Cannabis Docs, the Cannabis Conviction Expungement Clinic event will occur on April 25, 2021 in Maryland. There will be lawyers in the venue to discuss and help potential attendees with the entire expungement procedure. They will support individuals throughout the process of removing criminal reports from state records. Individuals who have been convicted due to possession of less than 10 grams of marijuana before April 25, 2018 are qualified to register.

Cannabis Sustainability and Equity in Illinois (April 6, 2021)

Chicago, IL

The Delta Emerging Leaders Associate Board hosts Green Soap Box, an annual gathering that discusses an environmental crisis affecting our culture. This year's theme will be Illinois Cannabis Sustainability and Equity. On April 6, 2021, the group will have a live Question and Answer session to address the many challenges cannabis is currently facing. The fact that cannabis is the most energy-intensive cultivation crop in the United States is one of them.

Freedom Festival by Welit (April 17, 2021)

Manassas, VA

Welit will host an event called Freedom Festival on April 17, 2021. The focus of this conference will be on the state's cannabis laws. There will also be programs where members can interact and socialize with other advocates.

 

CannMed 2021 (Septermber 29 - October 1, 2021)

Pasadena, CA

CannMed 2021 is a three-day cannabis summit at the Pasadena Convention Center on September 29, 30, and October 1, 2021. The event's goal is to put together some of the most brilliant minds in cannabis research, medicine, agriculture, and protection.

The CannMed Medical Practicum, a comprehensive full-day training scheduled for September 20, 2021, is part of the meeting. The speakers will share the new research, clinical expertise, and practice recommendations in treating a patient with cannabinoids therapeutics. For the next two days, the Full Conference will take place, with over 60+ panelists and 50+ convention center supporters.

Medical Cannabis 101- Online Learning Series (April 14, 2021)

Lutherville-Timonium, MD

Curio Wellness' Medical Cannabis 101- Online Learning Series explores the clinical impact of cannabis as a drug, as well as correct dosing methods, dosage formulations, preventing side effects, and legislation. There will be plenty of time set aside to answer questions. Both Medical Cannabis patients and non-patients will benefit from this free educational opportunity.

 

Body & Soul 420 Adult Tea Party (May 1, 2021)

Halethorpe, MD

On May 1, 2021, Sonja Secrets will host the Body & Soul 420 Adult Tea Party. This festival is for people aged 21 and up who want to learn about cannabis-infused food, drinks, and other events, including live music, gaming, raffles, and giveaways.

The Cannabis Conference 2021 (August 24 - 26, 2021)

The Cannabis Conference is one of the most important gatherings in the United States. It has been a major venue in recent years, with many people attending to hear more about marijuana discoveries, businesses, inventions, and brands.

Participants also use the event to broaden their professional networks. This year's conference involves several exhibitors and representatives that will tell attendees about recent trends in the cannabis industry.

 

Things to Know Before Attending Weed Events

The legalization of marijuana, whether for recreational or medicinal uses, has been a source of contention for generations. Experts have banded together to inform others about the plant's composition and therapeutic advantages, as well as its risk factors and future legality, as science advances.

The biggest reason you should know various things before visiting a marijuana function somewhere in the world is because of cannabis conflicts. Read on to discover things you have to consider if you're planning to register for a cannabis event.

●     Cannabis Events May Seem to a Standard Conference

Exhibit halls, panel meetings, meeting areas, and networking opportunities are common aspects of many cannabis conferences. For example, one cannabis event's morning agenda includes breakfast on the show floor and morning networking opportunities with like-minded people. Guests will stick to their assigned track later in the day, such as business, finance, or tribal, to attend events and roundtable discussions.

●     Industry Influencers and Businessmen Usually Attend Weed Events

Lawyers, physicians, lawmakers, advocates, and industry executives serve as panelists and guest speakers at cannabis conventions. For example, political activist Ralph Nader will give the keynote address at one of the events this year.

Corporate leaders of cannabis firms, real estate developers, herbalist workers, and scientists are among the speakers at the Cannabis World Congress and Business Exposition.

●     Expect a Large Number of Exhibitors

Many events devote a significant amount of time and space to exhibitions. There will be 225 exhibitors from various laboratories, greenhouses, security agencies, law firms, lobbying organizations, and software businesses at one upcoming festival.

The show space for the National Cannabis Summit is 20,000 square feet. The American Cannabis Company, Heliospectra, and Medicine Man Innovations are among the exhibitors.

●     Weed Conferences Tackles Different Aspects of Cannabis Industry

Representatives from cannabis firms and greenhouse technology laboratories, defense companies, clinics, and testing centers will be included in the traditional exhibit space. Many cannabis workshops, such as Chicago's My Compassion Cannabis Festival, concentrate on marijuana's medicinal effects. In reality, this particular conference contains a medical forum and exposition.

●     Technology Plays a Big Role in Every Weed Event

At cannabis conventions, the exhibit halls typically feature a wide variety of technology. Whether it's greenhouse lighting, safes, or surveillance cameras and alarms, the cannabis industry would almost certainly have the equipment it needs. Other tech items, such as vape pens, are also common at some weed events, but not all.

Like many other industry meetups, weed conferences bring together like-minded people to collaborate for a shared goal, network with colleagues, learn best practices, and explore new useful resources.

The Weed’s Scene in the DMV

Huge media outlets within the country track the developments in the DMV (Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia) since it's one of the tri-state areas where the plant faces issues of legalization. Read on to understand the real deal of cannabis in the DMV.

Cannabis Culture in the DMV

Among the three states, Washington, D.C., is the only place where you can roam around without worrying about being in trouble due to weed. It's a pot free-for-all in Washington, D.C. In their Decriminalization Bill I-71, D.C. decriminalized recreational drug use and provided for the trading and gifting of cannabis items. They now have a restricted medicinal marijuana policy that requires patients with some medical problems to access hemp and CBD products.

On the other hand, Virginia has a tiny compassionate care medical marijuana policy for citizens with serious illnesses. It only uses hemp/CBD drugs without any psychoactive effects of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol)l. This, however, is not always the case. Virginia is one of the most democratic anti-cannabis states in the world.

Lastly, Maryland. The cannabis scene in Maryland is quite different. The marijuana scene in Maryland is a bit different. Rather than complete legalization, limited doses of weed have been decriminalized. They do not allow commercial cannabis and have a restricted medicinal cannabis policy. Getting a medical passport, on the other hand, isn't complicated. You can buy anything from plant to concentrates to vape cartridges to edibles and topicals at any approved Maryland pharmacy with a prescription card.

Takeaway

Compared to the past years, the cannabis scene today is indeed undergoing huge improvements in different places worldwide. Despite the criticisms that the industry has been receiving, everyone expects more developments in the legalization of both medical and recreational use of the plant.

Is Weed Legal in Massachusetts?

Curious about the current marijuana landscape in Massachusetts? Today, with more public support for marijuana law reform than ever, it’s normal to find yourself interested in which states have already legalized the use of marijuana for medical and recreational purposes.

Whether you’re eyeing to move into the famed Bay State soon or is set to spend a brief vacation there for a week or two, knowing where Massachusetts stands in relation to marijuana can help you know what you can and what you can’t do once you get there.

To help you prepare in advance, here is a comprehensive discussion on the current state of marijuana in Massachusetts. Find out whether cannabis has been declared legal in the state and learn about the different laws and policies surrounding the drug in the state by reading this guide below.

Marijuana in America: Where Does Massachusetts Stand in the Cannabis Poll?

In less than two decades, the world has witnessed how marijuana’s position evolved from a stigmatized gateway drug to a substance blessed with tons of medicinal promises.

If we were to look back, California became the first domino to fall in 1996 after legalizing medical marijuana, creating a ripple that has pushed many other states to follow the same arrangement. In 2012, Colorado and Washington became the first states to vote for the legalization of marijuana for recreational purposes, marking yet another key milestone in the U.S. marijuana legalization.

Today, it’s not surprising that a total of 11 states, plus D.C., have now legalized both recreational and medical use of cannabis. Massachusetts. is one of these 11 marijuana havens.

Recreational Marijuana in Massachusetts – Is It Legal?

As mentioned earlier, Massachusetts is one of the 11 U.S. states to have legalized the use of recreational cannabis. Specifically, this means that anyone who is 21 years of age and older can buy and use marijuana for a specified amount.

Similar to all other states, the story of how Massachusetts embraced cannabis is a long and complex one. In 2008, the state voted to decriminalize cannabis, marking the first significant event that made Massachusetts closer to becoming a marijuana haven for patients and enthusiasts. Specifically, at the time, the use and purchase of the drug remained illegal, however, anyone who is to be caught doing the act will face only civil fines instead of criminal charges.

About four years since the decriminalization, medical marijuana in the state had been approved. And, finally, in 2016, Massachusetts voters passed Question 4, which legalized the use of cannabis for recreational purposes in the state.

Specifics of the Law: Exploring Recreational Marijuana in Massachusetts

Under Massachusetts' recreational cannabis laws, anyone who is 21 years of age or older is allowed to possess and carry specific amounts of marijuana. In particular, he or she can have up to one ounce of marijuana or 5 grams of concentrate outside of their residence and up to ten ounces of marijuana inside their residence.

Additionally, adults are also allowed to possess and cultivate up to 6 marijuana plants, with a maximum of 12 per household.

What Can’t You Do: Limitations of Massachusetts’ Recreational Cannabis Laws

Of course, similar in the case of all other states to have legalized recreational marijuana, Massachusetts’ existing cannabis laws still come with a few limitations.

Among these include:

• People who are to be caught “operating, navigating, or being in actual physical control” of any transport vehicle while under the influence of a marijuana product will still face penalties.

• Transfer of marijuana, marijuana products, or marijuana accessories to people under 21 years of age is illegal.

• Manufacturing marijuana or hemp products by means of any liquid or gas with a flashpoint below 100 degrees Fahrenheit is prohibited (except when done pursuant to a marijuana product manufacturer license issued by the commission).

• Property owners and local government agencies can still prohibit or regulate the possession or consumption of marijuana within a building, subdivision, or facility.

• Employers can still enact and enforce workplace policies restricting the consumption of marijuana to their employees.

• Anyone can still face civil, criminal, or other penalties if their use of marijuana resulted in negligence or professional malpractice.

• While medical and recreational cannabis are both legal in Massachusetts, it is still illegal to consume the drug in public.

Medical Marijuana in Massachusetts – Is It Legal?

Even before recreational use has been declared legal in Massachusetts, medical use of the drug has already been approved, thanks to the Massachusetts Medical Marijuana Initiative, also known as Question 3, which was passed in 2012.

Under the said measure, patients who are suffering from specific serious illnesses are allowed to use cannabis for medical purposes in the state.

Who is Eligible for the State’s Medical Marijuana Program?

As per required by the state laws, medical marijuana program is limited to those who reside in Massachusetts and are suffering from a specified debilitating medical condition.

Specifically, he or she must you must experience a debilitating medical condition as determined by the Commonwealth. Among these include:

• Cancer

• Glaucoma

• HIV/AIDS

• Hepatitis C

• Lou Gehrig’s disease (ALS)

• Crohn’s disease

• Parkinson’s disease

• Multiple Sclerosis

• Or other debilitating conditions as determined in writing by a patient’s certified physician.

How to Apply for the State’s Medical Marijuana Program?

To apply for Massachusetts’ Medical Marijuana Program, interested individuals must follow the steps below:

Step 1: Determine whether they are eligible to apply.

Step 2: If they qualify for the program, the next step is to get a certification from a certified physician recommending the use of medical marijuana. If the health care provider approved, he or she will provide the patient with a PIN number to register with the Program.

Step 3: After getting the PIN, the patient must now register online via the Medical Use of Marijuana Program Online System to ask for a medical marijuana card. During the application, they will be asked to provide the PIN number provided by their health care provider.

Step 4: To complete the application, applicants must upload the required documents (a valid ID and current photograph of the applicant, along with other needed files).

Step 5: Pay the $50 application fee.

Step 6: Submit their applications and wait for the approval.

Step 7: If they’ve been approved, applicants will receive a temporary printable version of their Massachusetts medical marijuana card, which they can use to purchase marijuana products at dispensaries.

Step 8: The official Medical Marijuana Card will arrive by mail when it is ready.

What Can’t You Do: Limitations of Massachusetts’ Medical Cannabis Laws

To date, under Massachusetts’ medical cannabis laws, registered patients are only allowed to purchase up to a 60-day supply of up to 10 ounces from a dispensary with each prescription. They may, however, be allowed to buy more if a qualified health care provider determines that their condition warrants higher doses.

Some Notes to Remember

Generally, although medical and recreational marijuana are both declared legal in Massachusetts, exporting the drug from the state towards another will still subject a person to a felony crime at the federal level, as marijuana remains illegal under federal law.

Similarly, a person can still be arrested for possession of cannabis when in another state that hasn’t legalized possession of cannabis – regardless if that person is a registered medical marijuana patient in Massachusetts.

The Bottom Line

Is the current marijuana landscape in Massachusetts a lot clearer to you now? Whether you’re a cannabis enthusiast, a potential medical marijuana patient, or just a curious culture vulture, learning the ins and outs of Massachusetts marijuana laws can benefit you greatly.

To know more, feel free to visit Massachusetts official state site and look for more info regarding the current status of marijuana and the laws surrounding the drug to date.