Initiative 71, also known as the Legalization of Possession of Minimal Amounts of Marijuana for Personal Use Initiative, is an act that was proposed and approved by voters in Washington, D.C., on November 4th, 2014. This initiative legalized recreational marijuana possession and consumption for adults over 21, including the cultivation and transport of up to two ounces. It allows citizens to transfer up to one ounce of marijuana to another adult 21 or older without money, goods or services being exchanged. Also, Initiative 71 does allow for adults 21 and over to cultivate up to six cannabis plants, with no more than three being mature at a time.
DC’s marijuana laws are largely based on Initiative 71, and the act does not allow for public consumption of marijuana or cannabis-related products, including edibles. Marijuana can only be consumed in private places. It also does not permit people to drive under the influence of marijuana or use it in public places such as parks or federal buildings
Initiative 71 also includes a clause that prevents employers from discriminating against workers because of their use of cannabis products. This means employers cannot refuse to hire, terminate, or otherwise discriminate against employees due to their use of marijuana, as long as it is done in accordance with Initiative 71.
However, Initiative 71 does not decriminalize the sale of marijuana, a key factor in maintaining consistent progress towards DC statehood. Just because cannabis is now legal doesn’t mean that it can be bought and sold in stores without repercussions; there are still strict regulations to follow if someone wants to open a dispensary. Moreover, the lack of taxation and regulation on sales means less money flowing into the city coffers, which could be used for education, infrastructure, and other important public services. This can create a roadblock for statehood since DC’s budget is largely funded by Congress, making it difficult for the district to prove its fiscal stability and self-sufficiency.
The District’s taxes on cannabis are also part of the law set forth by Initiative 71. All sales and transfers of marijuana products are subject to a 10% excise tax, paid for by the consumer. This money is placed in the DC Tax Fund and then disbursed to various government services, such as healthcare and education initiatives.
Visit the link below to view the I-71 Fact Sheet provided by DC Government
Gifting is a form of exchanging goods or services without demanding payment. This practice has been around for centuries, with some cultures placing greater value on gifting than others.
Gifting is also an important part of Initiative 71 (I-71) in the District of Columbia (DC). Enacted in 2014, I-71 legalized the possession, use and cultivation of marijuana for individuals aged 21 or older in DC. It also allows adults to give away up to one ounce of marijuana (or a lesser amount) without financial compensation. This concept of gifting marijuana is known as “social sharing,” and it has been an integral part of the initiative since its adoption.
It is important to note that gifting marijuana under I-71 is limited to adults 21 or older and can only occur within the District of Columbia. It remains illegal in DC to sell, distribute, purchase, or transport marijuana across state lines. Additionally, individuals are not permitted to consume marijuana in public spaces nor may they drive while under the influence of marijuana.
DC Residents and Non-DC Residents are allowed to apply for medical cannabis card
See more details at the link below
https://abca.dc.gov/page/medical-cannabis-patients#gsc.tab=0
