Cannabis Business Legal Compliance in Washington DC

Cannabis Business Compliance in Washington, D.C.

In Washington, D.C., legal compliance for businesses, including those in the cannabis industry, falls under the jurisdiction of several entities, depending on the specific aspect of compliance.

Alcoholic Beverage and Cannabis Administration (ABCA)

• Role: The ABCA oversees cannabis licensing and regulatory compliance for medical cannabis businesses in Washington, D.C.
• Responsibilities:
  • Issuing licenses for cultivation, manufacturing, dispensaries, and testing facilities.
  • Conducting inspections to ensure compliance with regulations.
  • Enforcing rules related to packaging, labeling, and advertising.

Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs (DCRA)

• Role: Handles general business compliance, including licensing and building permits.
• Responsibilities:
  • Ensuring businesses obtain the necessary Basic Business License (BBL).
  • Verifying compliance with zoning regulations for cannabis operations.

• Are you a Washington DC-licensed Attorney offering services to cannabis-related businesses? Request to be listed .

Legal Resources for Cannabis Attorneys in Washington, D.C.

Attorneys specializing in cannabis law can benefit from support and networking opportunities through a dedicated organization:

International Cannabis Bar Association (INCBA): This global association supports legal professionals in the cannabis industry. They host events like the Cannabis Law Institute, which has been held in Washington, D.C.

Penalties for Unlicensed Distribution of Marijuana in DC

In Washington, D.C., adults aged 21 and older may legally possess up to two ounces of marijuana and transfer up to one ounce to another adult without any form of payment. However, the unlicensed sale or distribution of cannabis products, including marijuana, CBD, and hemp, remains prohibited and is subject to significant legal penalties.

• First Offense (½ pound or less): Classified as a misdemeanor, this offense may result in up to 6 months in jail, a fine of up to $1,000, or both.
• Subsequent Offenses (½ pound or less): Offenders may face up to 2 years in prison, a fine of up to $5,000, or both.
• Any Amount Over ½ Pound: This offense carries a penalty of up to 5 years in prison, a fine of up to $50,000, or both.

In jurisdictions like Washington, D.C., where unlicensed cannabis sales carry severe penalties, engaging a knowledgeable cannabis Criminal Defense Attorney can be critical in protecting your legal rights and minimizing consequences.