7 things to know about Louisiana's medical marijuana program
Louisiana's medical marijuana program is regulated by the Louisiana Department of Health. Since January 1, 2025, LDH also oversees the retail locations that used to be licensed by the Board of Pharmacy as marijuana pharmacies. The state keeps no patient registry and issues no patient ID card. A patient gets a recommendation from an authorized clinician who has a genuine treatment relationship with them, then buys from a state-permitted retailer. The law names many qualifying conditions, but clinicians may also recommend for any condition they consider debilitating for that patient. Purchases are capped at 71 grams (2.5 ounces) of flower every 14 days.
7 things to know
- Louisiana has no state patient registry or medical marijuana ID card.
- LDH took over regulation of medical marijuana retailers from the Board of Pharmacy on January 1, 2025, under Act 693 of 2024.
- Each permitted retailer must have a Louisiana-licensed pharmacist responsible for its operations.
- Patients may buy up to 71 grams of flower every 14 days.
- Clinicians may recommend for any condition they judge debilitating, not only the listed ones.
- Medical marijuana sold to qualified patients is exempt from state sales and use tax.
- Recreational (adult-use) marijuana is not legal in Louisiana.
At a glance
- State fee: No state fee (no patient card or registry)
- Card lasts: Set by doctor
- Processing: No state card to wait for
- Patient limit: Set by your recommendation
- Home grow: Not allowed
- Recreational sales: Not legal
- First visit online: Yes
Sources
- LDH Medical Marijuana
- RS 40:1046 - Recommendation and sale of marijuana for therapeutic use
- Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners - Notice regarding medical marijuana recommendations via telemedicine
- Louisiana Board of Pharmacy Bulletin 24-02 (2024 new laws, Act 693)
- Act 693 (HB 376) of 2024 - Enrolled
- Louisiana Laws - visiting qualifying patient provisions
This guide is general information, not medical or legal advice. Laws change — confirm details with your state agency. State facts last checked October 7, 2026.