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South Carolina remains one of the few states without a legal medical marijuana program, despite ongoing efforts from lawmakers and strong public support. While neighboring states like Georgia and North Carolina are making strides toward legalization, South Carolina’s progress has been slow and met with resistance. New legislative efforts in 2025 may finally bring a structured medical marijuana program to the Palmetto State.
Where Does South Carolina Currently Stand on Medical Marijuana?
As of 2025, medical and recreational marijuana remain illegal in South Carolina. The state enforces strict laws, and possession of any amount can result in criminal charges.
First-time possession of one ounce or less is a misdemeanor, carrying a fine of up to $200 and 30 days in jail.
Subsequent offenses or possession of larger amounts can lead to felony charges and longer jail sentences.
Sale, distribution, or cultivation of marijuana carries even harsher penalties, with potential prison time of up to five years for small-scale offenses.
The only exception is the state’s limited CBD program, which allows certain patients with severe epilepsy to access low-THC CBD oil. However, this program is highly restrictive and does not offer full-spectrum medical marijuana or broader patient access.
The Compassionate Care Act
In January 2025, Senator Tom Davis reintroduced the Compassionate Care Act (Senate Bill 53), a long-awaited bill designed to create a regulated medical marijuana program in South Carolina. The bill proposes a highly controlled system that includes:
15 licensed cultivation centers and 30 processing facilities statewide.
Three dispensaries per county, regulated by the Department of Public Health and Board of Pharmacy.
Strict limits on consumption, including:
1,600 mg THC per 14 days for edibles and tinctures.
8,200 mg THC per 14 days for vaporization oils.
4,000 mg THC per 14 days for topical treatments.
Unlike other state programs, the bill prohibits home cultivation and smoking marijuana, allowing only vaporization, edibles, tinctures, and topicals. This aligns with South Carolina’s conservative stance, ensuring medical marijuana is available only under doctor supervision and pharmacist dispensing.
A unique five-year sunset clause is also included, meaning the program would automatically expire unless lawmakers vote to renew it based on feedback from patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers.
Public Support and Political Roadblocks
Despite overwhelming public support, medical marijuana legalization continues to face resistance from lawmakers.
Recent statewide polls show that over 70% of South Carolina residents support medical marijuana legalization.
Senator Tom Davis has been a vocal advocate, emphasizing that the Compassionate Care Act is a conservative bill designed to help patients with severe conditions without opening the door to recreational use.
However, Republican leaders in the House have stalled previous medical marijuana bills, citing concerns about federal legality and potential recreational expansion.
Governor Henry McMaster has expressed neutrality on medical marijuana but has not committed to signing a bill if it passes. Meanwhile, South Carolina’s law enforcement community has historically opposed legalization, arguing that it could increase crime and drug abuse.
The Economic and Health Benefits of Medical Marijuana
Legalizing medical marijuana in South Carolina could bring major benefits for patients, the economy, and public health.
1. Relief for Patients with Chronic Conditions
Medical marijuana is proven to help with conditions like cancer, epilepsy, PTSD, and chronic pain. It offers a natural alternative to opioids, reducing dependence on addictive painkillers.
2. Job Creation and Economic Growth
A regulated medical marijuana industry would create thousands of jobs in cultivation, processing, and retail, as well as generate millions in tax revenue for South Carolina.
3. Keeping Revenue in the State
Currently, South Carolinians travel to Georgia or North Carolina for legal hemp-derived THC products. If medical marijuana is legalized, it would keep tax dollars in the state instead of losing them to neighboring markets.
Why You Need a Medical Marijuana Card (When It Becomes Legal)
If South Carolina legalizes medical marijuana, patients will need a medical marijuana card to access dispensaries legally. A card provides legal protection, ensuring compliance with state laws and preventing possession-related penalties.
It also guarantees access to high-quality, lab-tested products, unlike unregulated hemp-derived THC, ensuring safe and effective treatment. Additionally, medical marijuana is typically taxed at a lower rate, making it a more affordable option than recreational marijuana in other states.
Finally, a medical card allows for doctor-guided treatment, ensuring patients receive expert recommendations on dosages and products tailored to their specific medical needs.
What’s Next? Will 2025 Be the Year for Medical Marijuana in South Carolina?
With new legislation on the table and growing public support, South Carolina has a real opportunity to legalize medical marijuana in 2025. The biggest challenge remains the state legislature, where previous bills have stalled.
Key Steps to Watch:
The Compassionate Care Act (Senate Bill 53) will be debated in the state Senate and House in 2025.
Bipartisan support is crucial to overcoming opposition from Republican lawmakers who remain skeptical.
If the bill passes, Governor McMaster’s stance will be key in determining whether it becomes law.
For now, South Carolinians must continue advocating for a medical marijuana program that prioritizes patient health, safety, and economic benefits. While challenges remain, the push for legalization is stronger than ever, meaning medical marijuana could finally become a reality in South Carolina.
Get Ready for Medical Marijuana in South Carolina
Reserve an evaluation online today, and we’ll book an appointment for you with one of our knowledgeable, compassionate doctors just as soon as the state’s medical marijuana market is up and running.
You’ll learn if you qualify for a South Carolina Marijuana Card and how to best treat your conditions with safe, effective medical marijuana. You’ll even save $25 off the cost of your evaluation!
Doctors Who Care
Relief You Can Trust.
South Carolina Marijuana Card’s mission is to help everyone achieve wellness safely and conveniently through increased access to medical marijuana. Our focus on education, inclusion, and acceptance will reduce the stigma for our patients by providing equal access to timely information and compassionate care.
If you have any questions, call us at (833) 781-6670, or simply reserve an appointment to start getting relief you can trust today!
Check out South Carolina Marijuana Card’s Blog to keep up to date on the latest medical marijuana news, tips, and information!
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