Is Recreational Marijuana Legal in Louisiana?
No. Recreational use is illegal, but small amounts are decriminalized. Medical marijuana is legal. A 2026 bill could change things.
Reviewed by Laura Bennett · Last updated March 2026
Illegal — Decriminalized for Small Amounts
Recreational marijuana is illegal in Louisiana under LA R.S. 40:966. Possession of 14 grams or less is decriminalized (fine only, no jail for first offense). Medical marijuana is legal with a state card.
The Short Answer
Recreational marijuana is illegal in Louisiana as of March 2026. Louisiana has not legalized recreational cannabis for adult use. However, the state took a significant step in 2021 by decriminalizing possession of small amounts — making possession of 14 grams or less a fine-only offense for first-time offenders.
Medical marijuana is legal in Louisiana. Patients with qualifying conditions can obtain a physician's recommendation and purchase products from state-licensed pharmacies.
Louisiana Marijuana Penalty Breakdown
Under LA R.S. 40:966, penalties for marijuana possession depend on the amount and prior offenses:
| Amount | Offense | Penalty |
|---|---|---|
| 14 grams or less | 1st offense | Fine up to $300, no jail |
| 14 grams or less | 2nd offense | Fine up to $1,000 |
| 14 grams or less | 3rd+ offense | Fine up to $1,000 and/or up to 20 days jail |
| 14g to 2.5 lbs | Any | Misdemeanor: up to 6 months jail, fine up to $500 |
| Over 2.5 lbs | Any | Felony: 2-10 years prison, fine up to $30,000 |
Medical Marijuana in Louisiana
Louisiana's medical marijuana program has expanded significantly since its creation in 2015:
- Qualifying conditions: Cancer, HIV/AIDS, PTSD, chronic pain, seizure disorders, Crohn's disease, muscular dystrophy, and other debilitating conditions
- Products available: Tinctures, oils, capsules, edibles, topicals, metered-dose inhalers, transdermal patches, and raw flower (since 2022)
- Where to buy: State-licensed pharmacies only (currently operated by LSU and Southern University agricultural centers)
- Age requirement: 18+ with a medical card (21+ for some programs)
Will Louisiana Legalize Recreational Marijuana?
A bill (HB 373) was introduced in early 2026 that would create a 3-year pilot program for recreational marijuana sales at existing medical dispensaries for adults 21 and older. Key provisions include:
- Sales would begin in 2027 if the bill passes
- Limited to existing medical dispensary locations
- 15% excise tax on recreational sales
- Local governments could opt out
The bill faces significant opposition from conservative legislators and law enforcement groups. Its passage is not guaranteed, and Louisiana's political landscape makes full legalization a longer-term prospect compared to many other states.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is recreational marijuana legal in Louisiana?
No. Recreational marijuana is illegal in Louisiana as of 2026. However, possession of 14 grams or less is decriminalized — a first offense carries a fine of up to $300 with no jail time.
What are the penalties for marijuana possession in Louisiana?
Penalties depend on the amount: 14 grams or less (first offense) is a fine up to $300 with no jail. 14 grams to 2.5 pounds is a misdemeanor with up to 6 months jail. Over 2.5 pounds is a felony carrying 2 to 10 years in prison.
Is medical marijuana legal in Louisiana?
Yes. Louisiana legalized medical marijuana in 2015. Patients with qualifying conditions can obtain a physician's recommendation and purchase products from state-licensed pharmacies.
Will Louisiana legalize recreational marijuana in 2026?
A bill (HB 373) has been introduced that could create a pilot program for recreational sales starting in 2027. However, the bill faces opposition and its passage is uncertain.
Can you go to jail for marijuana in Louisiana?
For a first offense of possessing 14 grams or less, no. But larger amounts, repeat offenses, distribution, and cultivation can all result in jail or prison time.