Arkansas Cannabis Laws 2026: Medical Only for Now
Arkansas has had medical cannabis since 2016, but voters rejected recreational legalization in 2022. Here's what patients can buy and what everyone else risks.
MomPuffs Team
TL;DR
Recreational cannabis is illegal in Arkansas. Medical cannabis is legal with a state card for qualifying patients, who can buy up to 2.5 ounces every 14 days. No home growing, even for patients. A January 2026 court ruling confirmed lawmakers can amend the medical program.
Arkansas voters approved medical cannabis with Amendment 98 in 2016, and dispensaries opened in 2019. Recreational legalization (Issue 4) failed in November 2022, so Arkansas remains a medical-only state.
Is weed legal in Arkansas?
Not for recreational use. You need a state medical marijuana card to buy or possess cannabis legally.
Medical cannabis in Arkansas
Patients need certification from a physician for a qualifying condition, then apply to the Arkansas Department of Health for a registry card (the state fee is $50). Qualifying conditions include cancer, glaucoma, HIV/AIDS, hepatitis C, Crohn's disease, PTSD, severe arthritis, fibromyalgia, Alzheimer's, epilepsy and other seizure disorders, and intractable pain, among others.
| Limit | Medical patients |
|---|---|
| Purchases | Up to 2.5 ounces every 14 days (each purchase counts against your total for 14 days) |
| Edibles | Capped at 10 mg of THC per serving |
| Home grow | Not allowed |
Visiting patients with a valid card from another state may be able to register to buy in Arkansas. Check with the Department of Health before you travel.
Penalties for recreational possession
Without a medical card, possessing cannabis in Arkansas is a criminal offense. Small amounts (under 4 ounces) are charged as a misdemeanor; larger amounts, or possession with intent to sell, can be a felony.
Driving and work
Driving while impaired by cannabis is illegal, including for patients. Employers can still prohibit use on the job, and federal rules apply to jobs like commercial driving.
Is anything changing in 2026?
In January 2026, a court ruling confirmed that the Arkansas Legislature has the power to amend the voter-approved medical marijuana amendment, which means lawmakers could change program rules in future sessions. No recreational legalization measure is on Arkansas's 2026 ballot that we're aware of.
Federal law in 2026
Federal law still treats recreational cannabis as illegal. In April 2026, the federal government moved marijuana sold under a state medical license (and FDA-approved cannabis medicines) to Schedule III, but adult-use cannabis is still Schedule I. That means it's still banned on federal land and can't legally cross state lines, even between two legal states.
Separately, a federal ban on intoxicating hemp products takes effect in two steps: synthetic and converted cannabinoids like delta-8 lose their legal status on November 12, 2026, and naturally derived hemp THC (THCA flower, hemp delta-9 edibles and drinks) on December 11, 2026.
Where to buy legally
Only card-holding patients can buy at Arkansas dispensaries. Browse dispensaries in Arkansas in our directory.
Last reviewed October 8, 2026. This guide is general information, not legal advice. Laws change, so check the official sources below before you rely on any detail.
FAQ
Is recreational marijuana legal in Arkansas?
No. Arkansas voters rejected recreational legalization (Issue 4) in 2022. Only patients with a state medical marijuana card can legally buy and possess cannabis.
How much medical marijuana can you buy in Arkansas?
Registered patients can buy up to 2.5 ounces every 14 days. Each purchase counts against the patient's total for 14 days from the date of purchase.
Can you grow your own cannabis in Arkansas?
No. Home cultivation is not allowed in Arkansas, even for registered medical patients.
How much does an Arkansas medical marijuana card cost?
The state registry card fee is $50, plus whatever the certifying physician charges for the evaluation.