Alaska State Laws

The Alaska State Cannabis Laws Course is designed to provide a detailed overview of the legal framework governing cannabis in Alaska. This includes both the statutory and regulatory aspects that define the operations within the state’s cannabis industry, as articulated by the Alaska Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development and other resources.

The course covers the statutes and regulations that came into effect following the legalization of recreational cannabis in 2014 through Measure 2, allowing adults aged 21 and over to possess up to one ounce of marijuana and to cultivate up to six plants for personal use. These regulations are detailed in AS 17.38 and 3 AAC 306, which were updated as recently as January 2024, and include specifics on the operational standards for cannabis establishments, the fine schedule for violations, and compliance documents for cannabis testing laboratories.

Participants will learn about the requirements for operating a retail marijuana store in Alaska, including necessary forms and fees, such as the new application fee of $1,000 and the retail store license fee of $5,000. The course also addresses the penalties associated with marijuana-related crimes under AS 17.38, highlighting the legal limits for possession, distribution, and cultivation, and the associated fines and imprisonment terms for violations.

Furthermore, the course delves into the marijuana consumption laws in Alaska, emphasizing that consumption is only permitted in private spaces and not in retail stores or public places. It also covers the regulations surrounding driving under the influence of marijuana, with detailed consequences for violations.

For those interested in the business aspect, the course provides insights into the licensing process, including the submission of forms, proof of premises possession, food safety permits, and fingerprinting requirements. It also offers guidance on advertising regulations, ensuring that applicants are aware that advertisements must reflect the actual proposed establishment location and comply with local zoning laws.

This certification is essential for legal professionals, entrepreneurs, healthcare providers, and policymakers looking to navigate or operate within Alaska’s cannabis industry. It equips them with the knowledge to ensure compliance with state laws and regulations, thereby fostering a responsible and legally compliant cannabis market in Alaska.