While April 15 is commonly known as Tax Day, this year holds extra significance for medical marijuana patients in Washington, DC. On April 2, 2024, the District made a groundbreaking decision: the Council approved the Medical Cannabis Patient Card Extension and 4⁄20 Medical Cannabis Sales Tax Holiday Week Emergency Amendment Act of 2024.
This forward-thinking legislation introduced two key changes. Firstly, it prolonged the validity period of patient and caregiver registration identification cards from two years to a more convenient six-year timeframe. This adjustment is anticipated to streamline administrative processes for patients and caregivers. Secondly, and more significantly, the act expanded the medical cannabis tax holiday that was initially launched in 2023. This extended period, now spanning two full weeks until April 28, allows registered medical marijuana dispensaries to waive sales taxes for their customers—a beneficial financial reprieve for patients who depend on these products for their health.
Industry leaders and cannabis professionals have warmly welcomed this news. Bethany Frick, the CEO of District Cannabis, a cultivator preparing to open its flagship store in Union Market on April 17, praised the decision. “We firmly believe that cannabis, particularly for medical use, should be exempt from taxes,” she stated, echoing a sentiment shared by many within the industry and by patients themselves. With states like Maryland, New Jersey, Delaware, Massachusetts, and Connecticut already excluding medical cannabis sales from taxes, the prolonged tax holiday in DC represents a step towards improved accessibility and affordability for patients managing various health issues such as pain, anxiety, and sleep disorders.
The financial benefits are evident: without the standard 6% medical cannabis sales tax rate in DC, an ounce of Acapulco Gold, typically priced at \(300, becomes notably more affordable at \)318 including taxes. In contrast, states like California impose a high 15% retail excise tax on similar purchases.
Jared Powell, the chief of staff for the Alcoholic Beverage and Cannabis Administration, confirmed the tangible impact of these tax holidays on licensed DC retailers: “Sales data indicates a significant uptick in April due to this specific incentive.” This appeal extends beyond DC residents; non-resident patients are enticed by the opportunity to register for up to 365 days or benefit from state reciprocity programs.
Amidst inflation affecting all sectors, including cannabis, with the US Cannabis Spot Index showing a year-over-year rise, the tax holiday arrives at an opportune moment. And let’s not overlook the anticipation surrounding April 20—a day synonymous with celebrating cannabis culture. Hannah Clarke, the executive director of the I-71 Committee (a nonprofit advocating for socially conscious cannabis legislation), encourages consumers to explore local dispensaries during this festive period: “4⁄20 presents an excellent chance to engage with your local dispensary and make the most of unique promotions.”
With the tax relief offering additional savings at the point of sale, it presents a mutually beneficial scenario for both consumers and the flourishing cannabis industry in DC.
Photograph by District Cannabis.