Cannabis

What is Cannabis?

Cannabis has been consumed by people for thousands of years for medicinal, recreational, industrial, and spiritual purposes. Cannabis sativa is a plant commonly known by many names – including weed, pot, and marijuana, with the preferred term being ‘cannabis’. Cannabis is most commonly smoked, vaped, eaten, applied topically. Extended product forms are available to certified patients participating in the medical cannabis program including transdermal patches and suppositories.. It can be consumed in many forms including hash (created from cannabis resin), leaves, oils, lotions, edibles (product, containing either cannabis or concentrated cannabis and other ingredients, intended for use or consumption through ingestion, including sublingual or oral absorption), infused foods or beverages, and in highly concentrated forms such as shatter, wax, kief, or hashish. Many consume cannabis for its possible psychoactive effects. If consumed for medical purposes it can treat chronic pain, glaucoma, poor appetite, nausea, and many other problems.

The cannabis plant has hundreds of chemical compounds, including cannabinoids and terpenes. These natural compounds can have different effects on the mind and body. Tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol are the most common.

  • Tetrahydrocannabinol, known as "THC," is known for its psychoactive effects -- a feeling of being high.
  • Cannabidiol, known as "CBD", is the second most prevalent cannabinoid in cannabis. Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol, cannabidiol does not cause a "high" or psychoactive effect by itself.

History of Cannabis in New York State

Cannabis became legal in New York State for medical purposes when the Medical Cannabis Program was implemented in 2016. Adult-Use (also known as recreational) Cannabis was legalized in New York State when the Marihuana Regulation & Taxation Act (MRTA) was signed on March 31, 2021. The MRTA made it legal for adults 21 or older to possess up to three ounces of cannabis and up to 24 grams of concentrated cannabis (like vaporization oil or an edible) for personal use, to store up to five pounds of cannabis in the home, to consume cannabis, and to share cannabis without compensation to a person 21 or older.

It is illegal to use cannabis in a motor vehicle, a private business, or any place where smoking tobacco is prohibited. It's also illegal to sell cannabis without a license. There are more restrictions and exceptions regarding the possession, consumption, and sales of cannabis.

New York State Department of Health's Role

The New York State Department of Health supports the Office of Cannabis Management in the implementation of the Marihuana Regulation & Taxation Act on matters related to public health and education, public safety, research, and data surveillance. The Department of Health collaborates across state agencies to provide resources and support to local communities for people who use drugs.

Key Terms

For a glossary of terms, see Cannabis Key Terms