The history of Louisiana and medical cannabis is full of ups and downs. The state history initiated the legalization of medical cannabis back in 1978. But over the years, the whole process was plagued by legislative and bureaucratic delays. Fortunately today, access to a medical marijuana card is now possible for both adult and minor patients within the state. However, there are certain eligibility requirements set by the state for minor patients.
Eligibility requirements for a medical marijuana card in Louisiana
As per state law, a patient must be a resident of Louisiana and have a valid medical marijuana recommendation from a medical doctor in order to apply for a Louisiana medical marijuana card. Patients who are not yet 18 can apply for a medical marijuana card, considering that they are accompanied by a designated caregiver.
Qualifying medical conditions
As per the state law, a patient must be diagnosed with one of the following qualifying medical conditions in order to be marked eligible for a Louisiana medical marijuana card,
- Cancer
- HIV/AIDS
- Cachexia (wasting syndrome)
- Seizures / Epilepsy
- Spasticity (including severe muscle spasms)
- Crohn’s disease
- Muscular dystrophy
- Multiple sclerosis
- Glaucoma
- Parkinson’s disease
- Intractable pain
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Specific symptoms of autism spectrum disorder
- Spastic quadriplegia
What exactly is a caregiver?
As per the Louisiana cannabis laws, patients who are not yet 18 must apply for a medical marijuana card, only if they are accompanied by a designated caregiver. The major role of the caregiver involves providing legal assistance to the patient as well as helping with cannabis possession/purchase. The caregiver must be one of the parents or legal guardians of the patient.
Medical Marijuana Laws for minors in Louisiana
Medical marijuana laws are the same for both adult and minor patients within the state of Louisiana. Here are some prominent key points of these laws,
- Police officers donât have the authority to conduct a warrantless search in someoneâs house just because of the cannabis smell.
- Consuming cannabis in public is illegal.
- Driving under the influence of cannabis or consuming cannabis while driving is illegal as per the state law.
- State employees who are working in non-safety-sensitive roles can consume medical cannabis.
Final Note
Allowing patients who are not yet 18 to apply for a medical marijuana card was a major step taken by the state of Louisiana. However, there are certain sections of Louisiana cannabis laws that need to be upgraded now.