Ask Ethel
Get the scoop on all cannabis-related questions from Arkansas’ expert advice columnist, Ethel Mertz.
By Ethel Mertz
Photography By Ebony Blevins
Consider me your modern-day Ethel Mertz from “I Love Lucy.” I want to be your friend, your confidante, and a guide to all your cannabis-related questions.
Dear Ethel,
What the heck is an allotment? I got my medical marijuana card in the mail a few days ago but I don’t know how much of my allotment I can “spend.”
Help!
Allotment Aloof
Dear Allotment Aloof,
It’s not as confusing as it sounds! Qualified medical marijuana patients are allowed to purchase up to 2.5 ounces from a licensed dispensary in each 14-day period. Each individual purchase counts against the patient’s balance for 14 days. This translates to a maximum of 5 ounces per month, considering the biweekly limit. For products like edibles, the THC content is measured instead of the product’s overall weight. It’s essential as a patient to understand your allotment and monitor your purchases closely to stay within the legal limits and manage your medical needs effectively. You can easily track your allotment online using my handy guide. I hope it helps allot.
Love,
Ethel
Dear Ethel,
I live out-of-state, but I’m visiting my sister in Little Rock this summer. Can I use my medical marijuana card in Arkansas?
Thanks,
Visiting Vaper
Dear Visiting Vaper,
Welcome to The Natural State! You’re going to love it here. To apply as a visiting out-of-state patient, you must have a medical marijuana card or equivalent from another state for one of the 18 qualifying conditions approved in Arkansas. Visit the ADH website to apply ($50 processing fee required). The processing time is up to 14 days after you submit your application and payment. Visiting patient cards are issued for 90 days per application.
Love,
Ethel
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“It’s essential as a patient to understand your allotment and monitor your purchases closely to stay within the legal limits and manage your medical needs effectively.”