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Medical — LegalNorth America

Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico authorized medical cannabis by executive order in 2015 (OE-2015-010) and formalized the program through the Medical Cannabis Act (Act 42-2017). The program is overseen by the Medicinal Cannabis Regulatory Board under the Department of Health. As of early 2025, approximately 118,000 patients were registered across the island, making it one of the largest medical cannabis programs in US territories. Patients 21+ with a physician certification for one of 23 qualifying conditions may purchase up to 1 ounce of flower or 8 grams of THC in concentrates daily, with up to 30 days’ supply on hand. Over 77 dispensary licenses have been issued, with 40+ operational locations. Home cultivation is not permitted without authorization. The Regulatory Board imposed a moratorium on new cultivation and dispensary licenses in late 2024 pending a market study. Adult-use cannabis remains illegal, with decriminalization limited to small amounts.

Ask the Expert about Puerto Rico
Regulator
Medicinal Cannabis Regulatory Board
Key Legislation
Medical Cannabis Act, Act 42-2017
Year Legalized
2015 (executive order); 2017 (statutory)
Program Size
~118,000 registered patients (March 2...

Key Facts

  • Puerto Rico’s medical cannabis program launched via executive order in 2015 and was codified by Act 42-2017
  • Approximately 118,000 registered patients as of March 2025, recovering from a post-pandemic dip
  • Patients may possess up to 1 oz of flower or 8g THC in concentrates daily; public consumption is prohibited
  • The Regulatory Board imposed a moratorium on new cultivation and dispensary licenses in late 2024 pending market study
  • Adult-use cannabis is not legal; possession of small amounts (under 5g) was decriminalized in 2015

Key Legislation

Medical Cannabis Act, Act 42-2017 (P. del S. 860)

Regulatory Body

Medicinal Cannabis Regulatory Board (Junta Reglamentadora de Cannabis Medicinal), Department of Health

Country Info
ISO Code
US
Region
North America
Tier
Tier 2 — Emerging
Status
Medical — Legal
Sources
NORML — Puerto Rico Medical Marijuana LawBioTrack — Puerto Rico Cannabis LegislationPuerto Rico Department of Health — Cannabis MedicinalWeedmaps — Puerto Rico Cannabis Laws
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.