Medical and Recreational Cannabis: A Legal Update

Medical and Recreational Cannabis: A Legal Update

August, 2021
Robert C. Phillips
Deputy District Attorney (Ret.)

Significant Legislation/Voter Initiatives:

November 6, 1996:  The “Compassionate Use Act of 1996” (“CUA,” Proposition 215; H&S § 11362.5)  (pg. 23, below)

Summary:  Provided protection for doctors recommending medical cannabis (then called “marijuana”) as well as decriminalizing possession and cultivation of limited amounts of cannabis, based upon a doctor’s recommendation.

January 1, 2004 (Amended June 27, 2017):  The “Medical Marijuana Program Act” (“MMPA,” Stats. 2003, ch. 875, § 1, SB 420; H&S §§ 11362.7 et seq.)  (pg. 34, below)

Summary:  Created the voluntary ID card program and expanded immunity for patients and primary caregivers.

January 1, 2016:  The “Medical Cannabis Regulation and Safety Act” (“MCRSA”) (Originally, the “Medical Marijuana Regulation and Safety Act”) (© 2026 Legal Updates, LLC.
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