Reciprocity

Surrounded by various states, Maryland witnesses frequent cross-border travel, particularly from its border regions. This naturally leads to questions among Maryland residents holding medical marijuana cards about whether their neighboring states acknowledge their cards, allowing them lawful purchasing privileges during their journeys. In this article, we explore the concept of ‘reciprocity’ both among states adjacent to Maryland and those further away:

Do the states neighboring Maryland, or even those at a greater distance, recognize Maryland’s medical marijuana cards, and if they do, what does this mean for Marylanders keen on obtaining quality cannabis products outside their home state?

Understanding Reciprocity for Medical Marijuana Patients

First, we need to unravel the term ‘reciprocity’ in the context of medical marijuana. It means one state respects the legal status bestowed by another. Translated into medical marijuana terms, it means someone legally entitled to buy medical marijuana in one form might be permitted to do the same in another.

However, Maryland does not currently offer reciprocity. Maryland does not permit individuals holding cards from other states to make medical marijuana purchases within its boundaries.

Yet, a significant number of states do exhibit reciprocity, although the specifics differ. Some states might reciprocate based on certain conditions, others might accept any valid medical marijuana program, and some might have stringent criteria.

States Recognizing Maryland Medical Marijuana Cards in 2025

Several states in the US recognize Maryland’s medical marijuana cards. For instance, as of 2021, the District of Columbia permits Maryland residents with valid cards to buy from DC dispensaries. Conversely, while not providing complete reciprocity, Pennsylvania grants purchases to critically ill patients from out-of-state.

An exciting example is Hawaii. While not providing straightforward reciprocity, it allows non-residents to apply for their medical marijuana program, typically prioritizing patients with severe conditions.

Moreover, numerous states far from Maryland exhibit some form of reciprocity, though often with distinct conditions. Maryland residents must note that cannabis regulations are fluid. Always check a state’s rules before carrying or buying cannabis within its territory.

States offering reciprocity, but sometimes under specific conditions, encompass:

• Arizona
• Arkansas
• California
• Maine
• Missouri
• Montana
• Nevada
• New Hampshire (only possession and with strict constraints)
• New Jersey
• New Mexico
• Oklahoma
• Rhode Island
• Utah