Reciprocity

Michigan is surrounded by several states and Canada, making cross-border travel familiar, particularly in areas like Detroit and the Upper Peninsula. This raises questions for Michiganders with medical marijuana cards about whether they can legally purchase cannabis during their travels in neighboring states or even those farther away.

In this article, we’ll explore the concept of ‘reciprocity’ among neighboring states and beyond for Michigan:

Do neighboring states, or those even farther away, recognize Michigan’s medical marijuana cards, and if so, what does that imply for Michiganders eager to purchase quality cannabis products in other states?

Understanding Reciprocity for Medical Marijuana Patients

To start, let’s clarify ‘reciprocity’ within the realm of medical marijuana. Reciprocity refers to one state recognizing the medical marijuana laws of another. This means that a person who is legally eligible to purchase medical marijuana in Michigan might also be able to do so in another state that recognizes Michigan’s medical cards.

Michigan does show a form of reciprocity. It allows cardholders from states with similar medical marijuana laws to purchase from Michigan dispensaries if their cards are recognized by Michigan law.

However, reciprocity varies significantly among states. Some states might offer reciprocity under certain conditions, require participation in their medical marijuana program, or impose stringent restrictions.

States Recognizing Michigan Medical Marijuana Cards in 2025

Several states recognize Michigan’s medical marijuana cards. As of the latest updates, states like Arizona and Nevada allow Michiganders with valid medical marijuana cards to make purchases in their dispensaries. However, only some states offer full reciprocity. For example, some states may only allow the purchase of medicinal cannabis if the visitor has a particularly severe or terminal condition.

An interesting case is Oklahoma, which offers a temporary license for visitors, allowing them to buy medical marijuana during their stay.

Moreover, other states farther from Michigan provide varying degrees of reciprocity, often subject to specific terms. Michiganders must understand that cannabis laws are continually evolving. Always check the current rules of the destination state before attempting to purchase or possess cannabis there.

States that offer reciprocity, albeit with certain conditions, include:

• Arizona
• Arkansas
• Maine
• Montana
• Nevada
• New Hampshire (only possession and under strict conditions)
• New Jersey
• New Mexico
• Oklahoma
• Rhode Island
• Utah

Always ensure to verify the specific requirements and limitations of each state’s reciprocity agreement before traveling with or planning to purchase medical marijuana.