Is Weed Legal in Arkansas?

Cannabis laws in the United States vary widely from state to state, and Arkansas is no exception. While the state allows marijuana for medical use under strict regulations, recreational use remains illegal and carries criminal penalties. This guide breaks down the current legal status of weed in Arkansas as of 2025, covering what’s permitted, what’s not, and recent developments affecting cannabis policy.

Medical Marijuana Is Legal in Arkansas

Medical marijuana is legal in Arkansas under a voter-approved amendment passed in 2016.

The Arkansas Medical Marijuana Amendment (AMMA) allows qualifying patients to legally purchase cannabis for therapeutic use.

Over 100,000 patients are currently registered in the program, demonstrating widespread usage within the state.

Who Qualifies for Medical Marijuana?

Patients must be diagnosed with a debilitating medical condition such as cancer, PTSD, severe arthritis, or chronic pain unresponsive to conventional treatment.

To qualify, individuals must receive a written certification from a licensed physician and register with the Arkansas Department of Health.

Patients can legally purchase up to 2.5 ounces of cannabis every 14 days from state-licensed dispensaries.

Recreational Marijuana Remains Illegal

Recreational marijuana is still illegal in Arkansas.

Possession of any amount for non-medical use is considered a criminal offense, and penalties vary based on the quantity and criminal history.

For example, possession of less than 4 ounces is a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in jail.

2025 Legislative Update: Medical Cannabis Tax Funds School Meals

In 2025, Arkansas passed SB59, which redirects medical marijuana tax revenue to provide free breakfast for students who request it.

This marked the only cannabis-related legislation signed into law during the 2025 session, reflecting limited progress in expanding cannabis policy.

Governor Opposes Expansion of Cannabis Access

Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders has firmly opposed any legislative or ballot-driven expansion of cannabis access.

In 2025, she vetoed HB1889, which would have:

• Allowed drive-through dispensary access
• Expanded home delivery services for medical marijuana patients
• Her administration continues to resist broader cannabis reform in the state.

Court Blocks Cannabis Expansion Ballot Initiative

In late 2024, a proposed ballot initiative to expand the medical program and decriminalize possession was blocked by the Arkansas Supreme Court.

Two justices recused themselves, and Governor Sanders appointed temporary replacements who helped form a majority decision to disqualify the measure.

The Court cited issues with signatures and the ballot title, despite previously approving the initiative months earlier.

Patients Gain Some Legal Protections

In 2023, the legislature passed a law that protects the right of medical marijuana patients to carry concealed firearms.

That same year, a judge struck down legislative amendments that imposed restrictions on the medical program, affirming voter control over the constitutional amendment.

Restrictions on Cannabis Use Still Apply

Even for medical users, Arkansas law prohibits:

• Smoking or vaping cannabis in public
• Use on federal property
• Consumption in workplaces or near schools
• Use in front of minors or pregnant women

The state also bans home cultivation of marijuana and does not recognize out-of-state medical marijuana cards.

Future Outlook for Legalization

Although adult-use cannabis remains illegal, public opinion is shifting.

Recent polls indicate that a majority of Arkansans support legalization, despite the defeat of the 2022 adult-use measure, Issue 4, which lost with 43.7% support.

Voters also rejected Issue 2, which would have made it harder to pass future ballot initiatives, preserving the ability to reform cannabis laws through direct democracy.

Conclusion

Cannabis is legal for medical use in Arkansas but remains prohibited for recreational purposes.

Despite a functioning medical program and growing public support, significant legal and political barriers—particularly from the governor’s office—continue to block further reform.

Until new leadership or policy shifts occur, Arkansas is likely to maintain its restrictive stance on cannabis legalization.