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Medical — LegalNorth America

North Dakota

North Dakota voters approved the Compassionate Care Act (Initiated Statutory Measure No. 5) in November 2016 with 64% support, legalizing medical cannabis. The program is administered by the Division of Medical Marijuana within the Department of Health and Human Services. The state operates a tightly regulated system with eight registered dispensaries distributed across designated regions, each covering a 50-mile radius from selected cities. As of 2026, the program serves an estimated 3,700 to 8,000 registered patients, a relatively small program reflecting the state's population. Qualifying conditions include cancer, PTSD, epilepsy, HIV/AIDS, ALS, Crohn's disease, and terminal illness. A 2018 recreational legalization ballot measure was defeated with 59% voting against, and no subsequent adult-use proposals have advanced. Patients may possess up to 2.5 ounces of dried cannabis in a 30-day period.

Ask the Expert about North Dakota
Regulator
Division of Medical Marijuana, North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services
Key Legislation
N.D.C.C. §19-24.1
Year Legalized
2016
Program Size
~3,700 active patients (est.)

Key Facts

  • Approved by voters in 2016 with 64% support via the Compassionate Care Act
  • Eight registered dispensaries distributed across geographic regions statewide
  • Patients may possess up to 2.5 ounces of dried cannabis per 30-day period
  • 2018 recreational legalization ballot measure was defeated by voters
  • One of the smaller state medical cannabis programs by patient count

Key Legislation

N.D.C.C. §19-24.1 (Compassionate Care Act)

Regulatory Body

Division of Medical Marijuana, North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services

Country Info
ISO Code
US
Region
North America
Tier
Tier 2 — Emerging
Status
Medical — Legal
Sources
North Dakota DHHS — Medical MarijuanaNorth Dakota Compassionate Care Act (N.D.C.C. §19-24.1)
Disclaimer: This information is for general reference only and does not constitute legal advice. Cannabis regulations change frequently. Always verify with official sources and local legal counsel before making compliance decisions.