Alaska has both medical and recreational cannabis programs. Medical marijuana was legalized in 1998, followed by recreational legalization in 2014. Adults 21+ can possess up to 1 oz of cannabis and grow up to 6 plants (3 mature) at home. Medical patients register with the state ($25 fee) after getting a doctor's certification. Both medical and recreational users purchase from the same dispensaries, but medical patients under 21 must have caregivers purchase for them. Alaska allows on-site consumption at certain licensed establishments - the first state to do so. The state has proposed reducing cannabis taxes from $50/oz to a 7% sales tax, but legislation is pending.
Both medical patients and recreational users can purchase cannabis at licensed dispensaries. There are no separate medical-only dispensaries in Alaska.
Qualifying conditions include: cancer, glaucoma, HIV/AIDS, cachexia (wasting syndrome), chronic pain, nausea, seizures, persistent muscle spasms, multiple sclerosis, and other conditions that cause these symptoms or whose treatment causes them.
The Marijuana Control Board (MCB), operating under the Alaska Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development's Alcohol and Marijuana Control Office (AMCO), regulates cannabis. The Medical Marijuana Registry is overseen by the Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS).
Yes, patients must register with the Alaska Medical Marijuana Registry, which is administered by the Department of Health and Social Services.
Both medical patients and recreational users can purchase cannabis at licensed dispensaries. There are no separate medical-only dispensaries in Alaska.
The application fee is $25, and cards must be renewed annually for the same fee. Doctor consultation fees are separate and typically range from $100-250, though insurance generally doesn't cover these visits.