NOT EVERYTHING IS SHARED AT CHRISTMAS... | CANNA LEY | By: Lic. Aleczer

With the arrival of the holiday season, many feelings awaken, including the desire to share with family and friends. Puerto Ricans are famous for their generosity, especially during the Christmas season.

But be aware, not everything good can be shared, as we often wish. Some things are best left unshared, such as credit, a husband or wife (depending on the agreement between the parties), but especially medicinal cannabis. For many, medicinal cannabis, besides being their medicine, is also a cause for celebration, synonymous with great adventures, good company, and of course, great stories.

When we're among good friends who we know are cannabis enthusiasts, it's incredibly difficult to hide the latest delicious and extraordinary strain we bought at the dispensary. Instinctively, we want to take it out and offer it to our friend in a selfless gesture of solidarity and love. Unfortunately, this action is prohibited by the regulations and the Cannabis Law.

It is important that you know the laws that regulate you so that you can consume your medication responsibly and at the same time help educate all those who are still ignorant about this medicinal project.

To begin with, sharing cannabis, even among patients, is expressly prohibited by the Medicinal Cannabis Regulations. This is to protect medical indications and address potential contraindications that may exist from one condition to another. Not everyone reacts the same way to the same strain, even when consuming it under identical conditions.

It becomes particularly delicate when the person is not a medical cannabis patient or has never experimented with the plant. The experience can be very intense and unpleasant if not done under safe and supervised conditions; this is why a doctor is involved in the patient certification process.

Sometimes, strangers approach you, blending in with your group of friends, wanting to experiment or asking you to sell or get them medical cannabis. THIS IS A RED ALERT. Under no circumstances should you comply with this request, no matter what story they tell you. I know of cases where undercover agents pose as close friends to ensnare you and later file criminal charges.

Finally, it's important to know that budtenders have a responsibility to ensure strict compliance with the laws and regulations governing their work. Failure to do so could result in job loss and even criminal prosecution if they engage in any prohibited transaction while performing their duties as a medical cannabis dispenser. Therefore, do not tell the budtender you're buying for Christmas gifts, for your mother, or for a friend—this is not allowed, and the budtender will refuse the sale, as is their duty.

For this reason, this Christmas, have a wonderful time with family and friends, and take your medication with you. Help anyone who needs information about the certification process; take them to the clinic with you so they can get assistance. Take your medication safely and responsibly. I wish you many blessings, love, and prosperity, but above all, health.

Until next time.

Mr. Jose Aleczer

@aleczer