When you look back at 2018, you may begin to realize how great of an impact marijuana has left (and continues to leave) on the United States of America. Over the course of several months, the little green plant has tipped the scales of nationwide elections and has become the focal point for multiple industries and small businesses. While the Pacific Coast and East Coast are definitive powerhouses for the recreational cannabis market, over thirty of these states provide options for medical marijuana, as well. Although Vermont, Maine, and Massachusetts lead the seaboard, we might overlook one of the biggest powerhouses in the United States (and the world): the State of New York. So how does one of our most influential states handle legal cannabis? Let’s take a closer look and find out.
Shoulders of Kings
When you think about it, the State of New York truly needs no detailed introduction. After all, we are all familiar with its most famous landmark New York City, a thriving metropolitan jungle containing Lady Liberty (in the harbor), Madison Square Garden, Rockefeller Center, and Radio City Music Hall. However, where else but the Empire State can you have a blast in the city before heading out into the wild wilderness? Beyond the urban reaches of Manhattan or the Bronx lies a sea of trees and mountains, filled with local folklore and indigenous culture. Visitors can enjoy taking a trip through time as they visit Fort Ticonderoga, the sight of battles fought during the Seven Years War and the Revolutionary War. New York is also the home of the infamous Sleepy Hollow, the stomping ground of the infamous Headless Horsemen in Washington Irving’s The Legend of Sleepy Hollow.
What’s the Buzz?
So, with all the attention placed on New York, how has the Empire State enforced marijuana laws through all these years? Simply put, decriminalization of the drug has been enacted for quite some time, and the state’s first medical dispensary was officially opened in 2016. Nevertheless, New York has set up strict regulations on medical-grade cannabis, meaning patients will have to go through some harsh roadblocks before they obtain their precious cargo. At this time, patients cannot obtain marijuana for smoking, meaning flowers cannot be sold, but they do have access to topicals, transdermal patches, and edibles. Recreational users will not face legal repercussions if they smoke in private.
Always remember that marijuana does not have control over your life. You do. Are you suffering from a substance use disorder or a severe form of addiction? Do you have a friend or family member suffering from one or more of these debilitating illnesses? If you do, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our counselors and healthcare experts are ready to walk you through every step of the detox and withdrawal process and rehabilitation and guide you towards living a happier, healthier, and freer lifestyle. While the road to recovery might not be an easy road to travel, we promise to help you every step of the way. Take the first step to stay fit, healthy, and safe.
The time for you to take back control of your life is now. If you are interested in one of our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how to overcome your drug abuse or addiction troubles today.