In Connecticut, individuals with certain felony convictions may still be eligible for a medical marijuana card. With the growing acceptance of cannabis for medical use, many people with criminal records are wondering if they can access this treatment option.
In this article, we’ll explore the laws surrounding medical marijuana cards for individuals with a felony in Connecticut, including any restrictions they might face and how they can apply.
Can Felons Apply for a Medical Marijuana Card in Connecticut?
Yes, individuals with a felony conviction can apply for a medical marijuana card in Connecticut. The state’s medical marijuana program does not automatically disqualify applicants based on their criminal history.
However, certain felony convictions may restrict an individual’s ability to work in the cannabis industry or hold specific roles, such as a backer or key employee at a dispensary.
For those seeking medical cannabis to treat a qualifying condition, the process is generally the same as for any other applicant. As long as your conviction does not involve specific disqualifying crimes, you can apply for a medical marijuana card and receive the treatment you need.
Disqualifying Criminal Convictions
Types of Crimes That Disqualify You from Certain Cannabis Roles
While having a felony does not necessarily prevent you from obtaining a medical marijuana card, there are restrictions on working in the cannabis industry.
According to Connecticut’s laws, certain felony convictions may disqualify individuals from becoming backers or key employees at a cannabis business.
These disqualifying crimes typically include serious offenses such as drug trafficking or violent crimes. If you’re interested in working in the cannabis industry, it’s important to check whether your criminal record includes any of these disqualifying convictions.
You can find a list of specific disqualifications on the state’s cannabis regulatory website.
How to Apply for a Marijuana Card If You Have a Felony?
Steps for Felons to Obtain a Marijuana Recommendation
Applying for a medical marijuana card with a felony is much the same as applying without one. You’ll need to consult with a licensed physician, who will determine if you have a qualifying medical condition. Once you receive your recommendation, you can register with the Connecticut Medical Marijuana Program.
The state does not require applicants to disclose their criminal history when applying for a medical marijuana card, and background checks are not part of the standard application process. As long as you meet the medical and residency requirements, you can be approved for a card, regardless of your past conviction.
Legal Challenges Felons May Face with a Marijuana Card
However, Connecticut enables felons to get MMJ cards, and there are still some legal issues that should be discussed. For example, pot is prohibited by federal law, and people with drug records can be discriminated against. One of them that comes into focus at this point is gun control.
Under federal law, people convicted of a felony, particularly those involving drugs, are barred from possessing or buying guns. That is, even when you are legally allowed to possess marijuana for medical purposes in Connecticut, you may not be allowed to own a gun.
Costs and Renewal for Marijuana Recommendations
For people who are felons about to apply for or renew their medical marijuana recommendation, the process is quite easy. A new client is guided to purchase for $179, whereas the renewal fee is $149 for yearly visits through telemedicine sessions.
This makes it easy for anyone to get certified without having to visit a physically doctors office they can get it from the comfort of their home.
Conclusion
Medical marijuana cards are not a rarity for individuals with felony convictions in Connecticut, and they are eligible for a card, too. The police record is never an issue during the issuance of a medical marijuana recommendation if you fulfill the medical and residency criteria.
However, if you are focusing on working in the cannabis industry, licensure can be a tricky process because some felony convictions may bar a person from having central roles.
CTA: Are you finally prepared to apply for the medical marijuana card? Start your telemedicine consultation today and request your recommendation without leaving your house.
FAQs
Can I get a medical marijuana card with a felony in Connecticut?
Yes, felons qualify for the medical marijuana card in Connecticut if they qualify medically, legally, and on a residency basis.
What types of felonies might prevent me from obtaining a marijuana license?
Violations involving forcible criminal offenses or medication dealing could heighten the prohibition of people from being backers or significant workers in the cannabis industry. But they will not stop you from getting a medical marijuana card.
Can felons work in the cannabis industry in Connecticut?
Yes, felons are allowed to work for companies in the cannabis industry, but some felonies will bar them from becoming backers or holding key positions.
Do federal restrictions affect my ability to own a firearm with a marijuana card?
Yes, currently, federal law bars people who are felons from possessing firearms. Moreover, marijuana for medical purposes may lead to a federal disqualification of possessing firearms even when you possess a state license.
How long does it take to get a marijuana recommendation in Connecticut?
It usually can take a few weeks but with telemedicine, it is easier and quicker with the initial appointment for $179 new patients, and for the follow-up consultations $149.
