Medical Marijuana in Idaho
The State of Idaho is one (1) of the twelve (12) remaining states that has no form of legalized medicinal cannabis access for its citizens. Under current Idaho law, an individual charged with possession of up to an ounce of marijuana faces a year in jail and/or up to a $1,000 fine. These outdated laws hit minority communities the hardest as the ACLU reported that African American residents are 3.9 times more likely to be arrested for marijuana possession than Idaho’s white population.
Fortunately, a Supreme Court of Idaho ruling created an opening for local cannabis policy reform to make its way onto the ballot in 2022. Lawmakers in Idaho established a law that would have required petitioners to collect signatures from at least 6% of registered voters in every legislative district in the state – which is 35 total districts! The Justices overruled this law and reinstated prior rules (which only requires 6% of voters in only 18 districts).
Unfortunately the advocacy group was unable to receive all the signatures needed to place medical marijuana reform on the ballot in 2022. However, Kind Idaho, along with numerous local advocates, have their focus on getting it placed on the 2024 ballot and are collecting signatures here.
Further, in 2023, House Health and Welfare Committee Chairman John Vander Woude introduced House Bill 370, also referred as the Idaho Medical Cannabis Act. Rather than bringing a draft bill to a legislative committee for an introductory hearing, Chairman Vander Woude took an unusual step by introducing the bill as a “personal bill,” which traditionally do not advance due to it bypassing the committee process. Due to its lack of support and unexpected arrival, it was not listed on the legislative agenda.
Upcoming Applications for Medical Marijuana Business Licenses
With 68% of Idaho residents actively supporting the legalization of medical marijuana, there will be an open application process for Medical Marijuana Business Licenses in in the near future. Now is the time to get started with your comprehensive and strategic business plan. Contact one of our consultants today!
Last Updated: July 18th, 2023