Initiative 71 Explained: Your Guide to DC Cannabis Laws and Dispensaries

Initiative 71, passed on November 4, 2014, transformed cannabis laws in Washington, DC. This groundbreaking initiative legalized the possession and cultivation of small amounts of marijuana for personal use, fundamentally changing how cannabis was accessed in the District. However, as DC transitions to a regulated market, the unlicensed i71 gifting model is no longer in operation.

In this blog, we’ll dive into the history, objectives, and impact of Initiative 71 while also addressing the safest and most reliable ways to legally purchase cannabis in DC through licensed medical dispensaries.

History Of Initiative 71 

Before the passing of Initiative 71, there was a movement to decriminalize marijuana in DC People were tired of the harsh penalties and the impact on communities of color. This was part of a bigger trend nationwide to rethink drug laws and make them fairer.

The process began on January 10, 2014, when the DC Cannabis Campaign submitted the proposition. And by March 4, 2014, the council passed a decriminalization bill. They gathered over 57,000 signatures by July 1, 2014, showing strong public support. The DC Board of Elections certified the petition on August 6, 2014, and a whopping 65% of the voters endorsed it in November. 

Even with strong support, Congress attempted to prevent the initiative by including a provision in a budget bill. However, the DC Council proceeded, and the law took effect on February 26, 2015, following a 30-day period of review.

How Initiative 71 Works

The Initiative 71 DC laws allow adults 21 and over to:

• Possess not more than two ounces of marijuana.

• Grow up to six plants at home, out of which only three can be in the flowering stage.

• Share up to one ounce with other adults.

• Use or sell paraphernalia for growing, processing, or using marijuana.

However, as DC transitions to a regulated market, the i71 gifting model is no longer in operation.

Personal Use And Possession

People above the age of 21 are allowed to use marijuana but in a moderate quantity of two ounces, and this is only allowed in private areas and not in public.

It is also worth noting that the limit is two ounces. If you have more than that, you could still get in trouble. 

These rules let people use marijuana at home without worrying about getting arrested, which has made a big difference in how residents feel about personal use.

Cultivation At Home

The rules state that you can have up to six plants in your house, but only three can mature and bear flowers. The plants must be in your primary residence and kept secure, not left lying around.

The six-plant limit ensures that it is for personal use and not for cultivation on a large scale.

Selling home-grown marijuana is illegal, but you can give up to one ounce to another adult for free.

Visiting Licensed Dispensaries vs. the Gifting Model

With the transition to a regulated market, the unlicensed i71 gifting model is no longer in operation, leaving licensed medical dispensaries as the only legal option for purchasing cannabis.

Licensed dispensaries like No Kids Allowed provide:

• Premium, lab-tested cannabis products with consistent potency and safety.

• Legal protection under DC’s medical cannabis program.

• Expert guidance from knowledgeable staff to help you find the best products for your needs.

How to Get a Medical Cannabis Card in DC

Obtaining a Medical Cannabis Card (MMC) is quick and easy, thanks to DC’s self-certification process. Here’s how you can get one:

For DC Residents

1. Gather Documents:

   • A DC driver’s license or proof of residency.

   • A clear photo of your face.

2. Self-Certify Online:

   • Visit the DC Department of Health’s medical cannabis program website and complete the application.

3. Receive Your Card:

   • A temporary card will be emailed to you within 10 minutes.

For Non-DC Residents

1. Gather Documents:

   • A government-issued ID.

   • A clear photo of your face.

2. Apply Online and Pay the Fee:

   • Non-residents must pay a fee ranging from $10 to $100, depending on the card type and fill out the non-resident application form.

3. Receive Your Card:

   • Temporary cards are emailed within minutes, giving you quick access to licensed dispensaries.

The Impact of Initiative 71

As public opinion continues to evolve, DC has shifted toward a regulated cannabis market, moving beyond Initiative 71’s initial framework. The transition involves establishing systems for taxation and sales while navigating federal limitations.

Discussions previously centered on whether Initiative 71 could be expanded to cover a legal market, addressing the issue of “gifting” and contributing to the city's tax revenue. However, with the shift to licensed dispensaries, the focus is now on ensuring a fully regulated system that aligns with DC’s medical cannabis program.

The debate continues about how to best implement and expand marijuana legalization in DC. Future challenges include ensuring public safety, strengthening the regulated market, and addressing federal opposition.

Social and Economic Effects

Initiative 71 significantly reduced marijuana-related arrests, alleviating pressure on the justice system and addressing long-standing disparities in enforcement. Additionally, it spurred economic activity by creating demand for cannabis-related products and services.

Public Health and Safety

The initiative paved the way for public health campaigns promoting responsible cannabis use. Education programs have focused on preventing impaired driving and underage consumption while highlighting the benefits of medical cannabis for chronic pain, epilepsy, and other conditions.

Challenges and Future Prospects

While Initiative 71 played a major role in shifting cannabis policy, the absence of a regulated recreational market posed challenges. Advocates continue to push for legislative changes that would allow for taxed and regulated cannabis sales, bringing greater clarity and safety to the industry. With the transition to a fully regulated system, licensed dispensaries now provide a legal and structured way to access cannabis in DC.

Cannabis Conclusion

Initiative 71 has been instrumental in reshaping cannabis laws in Washington, DC, decriminalizing personal use and cultivation while reducing the societal impact of prohibition. However, its gifting model leaves much to be desired in terms of safety, quality, and legal clarity.

For those seeking a safe and reliable cannabis experience, obtaining a Medical Cannabis Card and visiting a licensed dispensary like No Kids Allowed is the best choice. Licensed dispensaries provide premium, lab-tested products in a regulated environment, ensuring peace of mind for both residents and visitors.

Don’t forget that smoking it in public is still strictly prohibited. It is also unlawful to drive a vehicle while under the influence of marijuana.

By staying informed and making responsible choices, you can enjoy all the benefits cannabis has to offer in the nation’s capital.

Explore the finest cannabis selections at no kids allowed—your go-to source in DC for top-tier strains and marijuana products. Stop by our DC dispensary store (only a few minutes from Capitol Hill) or browse our collection online. Connect with us at (202) 897-5993 for expert advice on our premium offerings. For exclusive updates and special deals, follow us on Instagram @nka.dc

Frequently Asked Questions on Initiative 71

What Is Initiative 71 Compliant?

Being Initiative 71 compliant referred to following the rules of DC’s Initiative 71, which previously allowed adults to possess and grow marijuana but not sell it. Under this framework, i71-compliant DC shops operated by offering marijuana as a free "gift" with the purchase of other items to stay within the law.

However, with the transition to a regulated cannabis market, this unlicensed gifting model is no longer in operation.

What Is The I-71 Law In DC?

The I-71 law in DC, also known as Initiative 71, allowed adults in Washington, DC, to possess up to two ounces of marijuana and grow up to six plants for personal use. Since selling marijuana remained illegal, this led to the unique gifting economy that operated under i71 compliance.

However, with DC's shift toward licensed dispensaries, this model is no longer active, and only regulated medical dispensaries can legally sell cannabis.