What to Know About Washington’s New Medical Marijuana Regulations

Photo by Caleb Riston

Is Weed Legal in Washington?

Medical Weed in Washington

Medical marijuana has been legal in Washington since 1998, offering patients with qualifying conditions an alternative to traditional pharmaceuticals. Patients must receive a recommendation from a licensed healthcare provider and can choose to join the state’s voluntary Medical Cannabis Authorization Database. Those who register receive a recognition card, allowing them to purchase products from medically endorsed dispensaries, grow cannabis at home, and receive legal protections.

The Status of Recreational Weed in Washington

Washington was one of the first states to legalize recreational marijuana in 2012. Adults 21 and older can purchase cannabis products from licensed retailers without a medical card. However, recreational users are subject to a 37% excise tax and cannot grow cannabis at home, unlike registered medical patients. While both systems coexist, medical patients receive specific benefits and exemptions that make registration worthwhile.

Learn more: Is Weed Legal in Washington?

Who Is Eligible for a Washington Medical Marijuana Card?

WA Medical Weed Requirements

To qualify for medical marijuana in Washington, patients must be residents of the state and receive a medical cannabis authorization from a licensed healthcare practitioner. This authorization must be based on a diagnosed qualifying medical condition and documented in the appropriate form.

WA Medical Weed Qualifying Conditions

Washington State maintains a list of qualifying conditions that includes:

• Cancer
• HIV/AIDS
• Multiple sclerosis
• Epilepsy and seizure disorders
• Crohn’s disease
• Intractable pain
• Glaucoma
• PTSD
• Chronic nausea

Patients with terminal or debilitating medical conditions not listed may still qualify if their healthcare provider determines that medical cannabis would be beneficial.

How to Apply for a Medical Marijuana Card in Washington State

Step 1 – Get Certified by a Licensed Healthcare Provider

Begin by scheduling an appointment with a Washington-licensed provider who is authorized to recommend medical cannabis. During the evaluation, they will assess your condition and determine whether cannabis is an appropriate treatment.

Step 2 – Join the State’s Medical Cannabis Authorization Database

After receiving your authorization, you may choose to be entered into the state’s Medical Cannabis Authorization Database. This is a voluntary step, but it provides additional legal protections, including the ability to grow more cannabis plants and exemption from the state’s 37% excise tax.

Step 3 – Visit a Medically Endorsed Dispensary

To complete your registration, bring your authorization form and identification to a medically endorsed dispensary. A certified consultant will verify your documents, take your photo, and issue a Washington Medical Marijuana Recognition Card.

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Benefits of Registering in the Database

Registered patients receive several advantages:

• Exemption from the 37% retail excise tax
• Ability to grow up to 15 cannabis plants (based on practitioner recommendation)
• Access to more potent and specialized DOH-compliant products
• Enhanced legal protections in housing, employment, and caregiving contexts

Learn more: Washington Medical Marijuana Card Online

New Medical Marijuana Regulations in Washington State

Tax Exemption for Registered Patients

House Bill 1453, passed in 2024, allows medical cannabis patients registered in the state’s Medical Cannabis Authorization Database to be exempt from Washington’s 37% retail excise tax. This change helps reduce the financial burden on patients who rely on cannabis for chronic or debilitating conditions.

Changes to Cannabis Sampling Rules (Effective April 2025)

On April 29, 2025, revised rules from the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board (WSLCB) streamlined cannabis sampling guidelines. The previous categories of “vendor” and “educational” samples were consolidated into a single “trade sample” designation. These trade samples are intended for licensed processors and retailers to facilitate sales negotiations and employee education.

The new rules include clear restrictions on who can receive and distribute samples and how much product is permitted. All samples must be tracked, logged, and reported per WSLCB requirements.

Upgrades to the Medical Cannabis Database Registry (Expected Mid-2025)

The Washington State Department of Health is actively working on upgrades to the Medical Cannabis Authorization Database. The updated platform is expected to launch in mid-2025 and will improve usability, accessibility, and registration efficiency for patients and healthcare providers.

Ongoing Rulemaking for Product Compliance and Labeling

The Medical Cannabis Program is considering updates to Chapter 246-70 WAC. Proposed changes include refinements to product labeling, packaging, and quality assurance standards. These updates aim to increase transparency and ensure that DOH-compliant products meet high safety and efficacy benchmarks.

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Washington’s Home Grow Rules: What’s Legal for Medical vs. Recreational Users

Current Home Cultivation Rights for Medical Patients

Medical cannabis patients in Washington can grow up to four plants at home with a valid medical authorization. Patients who are entered into the state database can grow up to 15 plants, depending on their provider’s recommendation. This flexibility allows patients to manage their treatment affordably and independently.

Status of Home Grow for Recreational Users

Despite ongoing advocacy, recreational home cultivation remains illegal. A bill introduced in January 2025 to legalize home grow for adults did not pass. As a result, non-medical users must continue to purchase cannabis from licensed retail outlets and are not permitted to grow their own plants.

Employment Rights and Cannabis Use in Washington

2023 Employment Protections for Cannabis Use

A law passed in 2023 prohibits most employers from discriminating against job applicants for past cannabis use outside of work hours. This shift acknowledges the legality of adult cannabis use and provides protection for applicants, especially in non-safety-sensitive jobs. Employers can still test for impairment and maintain drug-free workplace policies, particularly where required by federal or safety standards.

Final Thoughts on Medical Marijuana Regulation Updates in Washington

Washington State continues to refine and improve its medical cannabis program through legislation, rule changes, and registry upgrades. From tax exemptions and sampling reforms to enhanced patient protections, the latest updates demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care. Staying informed and registering in the state database can offer important benefits for those who rely on medical marijuana for chronic conditions.

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FAQs About Medical Marijuana Regulations in Washington

Can I still buy medical marijuana without joining the registry?

Yes, it is possible to purchase medical marijuana in Washington using only an authorization form from your healthcare provider. However, not joining the registry means missing out on key benefits like tax exemption and increased plant limits. Additionally, having a recognition card helps dispensaries serve you more efficiently and allows access to a wider variety of DOH-compliant products.

How many cannabis plants can I grow as a medical patient?

If you have a valid medical authorization, you’re legally permitted to grow up to four plants at home. If you choose to register in the state database and your healthcare provider approves it, you may grow up to 15 plants. This expanded limit allows for more affordable, personalized care for those who rely heavily on cannabis for symptom management.

What taxes do recreational users pay on cannabis in Washington?

Recreational cannabis purchases are subject to a 37% excise tax, along with standard sales tax. These taxes can add up quickly, making medical cannabis significantly more cost-effective for eligible patients. Registered medical users are exempt from this excise tax, offering major savings over time.

Are there any protections for workers who use cannabis?

Yes. Under a 2023 law, Washington employers cannot disqualify job applicants based solely on prior cannabis use during their personal time. This law helps protect individuals who use cannabis legally and responsibly. However, workplace policies regarding active impairment and safety-sensitive roles are still enforceable, and employers may conduct drug tests where appropriate.

Get Your Washington Medical Marijuana Card Online Today

Ready to experience the benefits of medical marijuana legally and affordably in Washington? Green Health Docs makes the process simple. Our licensed professionals can evaluate your condition and help you get the documentation needed to access tax-exempt cannabis, grow your own plants, and obtain stronger DOH-compliant products.

Apply online with Green Health Docs and get started today from the comfort of your home.

This article has been reviewed by Dr. Anand Dugar, an anesthesiologist, pain medicine physician and the founder of Green Health Docs. Graduating from medical school in 2004 and residency in 2008, Dr. Dugar has been a licensed physician for almost 20 years and has been leading the push for medical cannabis nationwide.