December 17, 2009
/24-7PressRelease/ --
Your Medical Marijuana Card Won't Work In Arizona
A California medical marijuana card does not guarantee you safe passage in any state other than California. So, if you're crossing the border into Arizona - leave the pot at home.
Some Californians, at least, have learned this the hard way.
Since 1996, when California legalized medical marijuana use, Arizona police officers have cited an increasing number of out-of-state visitors for
drug possession. In the years between 1999 and 2002, marijuana seizures in the state jumped by nearly 69 percent.
Under Arizona law, possession of marijuana is a
criminal offense and can result in felony charges.
Even if the marijuana is just for your own use, possession can net you a fine between $750.00 and $150,000.00, plus a mandatory drug treatment, and a permanent criminal record. Many visitors to the state, traveling with medical cards from other states, have found themselves
facing felony charges, large fines and probation, thus the saying, "came on vacation, left on probation."
Things may be changing soon, though. Thanks to the efforts of some dedicated Arizonians, it looks as if marijuana will be making it onto the 2010 state ballot. In and of itself, this isn't new. In fact, Arizona residents passed marijuana initiatives in both 1996 and 1998, but both times, the results were negated due to conflicts.
However, this is a new year. Currently the Arizona Medical Marijuana Policy Project is closing in on 200,000 signatures for their ballot initiative and seems to be in good position to get the option in front of voters. If signed into law, the Arizona Medical Marijuana Act would remove legal restrictions from seriously or terminally ill patients whose doctors have prescribed marijuana.
Under the law, "designated caregivers" would be appointed - each with the ability to grow up to 12 marijuana plants and maintain up to five approved patients. Individuals with cancer, AIDS, HIV, Alzheimer's, Hepatitis C and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis would be allowed to seek medical sanction for pot use.
The public would be able to petition for additional medical conditions to be added.
Even with a medical marijuana card, Arizona residents would be subject to some restrictions. Permitted marijuana users would not be able to operate vehicles while under the influence and use in and around schools and correctional facilities would be prohibited.
However, until the dust settles, possession of marijuana in Arizona is still illegal and out-of-state drivers can and will be punished if they are
caught transporting drugs.
If you are pulled over and charged with drug possession, contact an
Arizona lawyer with experience in defending against
drug charges.Article provided by Cates, Hanson, Sargeant & Rakestraw, P.L.C.
Visit us at
www.duilawyer4u.com
Phoenix Marijuana Charge Defense Lawyers---
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