Index
Criminal LawNew York, USA

New York Marijuana Legalization (MRTA)

Summary

Under the Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act (MRTA), it is legal for adults 21 and older to possess, use, and grow specific amounts of cannabis in New York State.

Rights & Rules

  • 01.
    Adults 21+ can legally possess up to 3 ounces of cannabis flower or 24 grams of concentrated cannabis.
  • 02.
    You can legally smoke or vape cannabis almost anywhere that smoking tobacco is allowed (except in cars, schools, or workplaces).
  • 03.
    You can grow up to 3 mature and 3 immature cannabis plants in your home for personal use (maximum of 12 plants per household).
  • 04.
    Police can no longer use the smell of cannabis alone as a legal justification to search your car or person.

Penalties

  • 01.
    Possessing more than the legal limit (over 3 ounces) remains an unclassified misdemeanor or felony, depending on the amount.
  • 02.
    Driving under the influence of cannabis remains a serious crime (DWI).

Verified Citations

New York Penal Law Section 222.05

Source
"A person twenty-one years of age or older may possess, display, purchase, obtain, or transport up to three ounces of cannabis and up to twenty-four grams of concentrated cannabis."