Guide Note

Marijuana vending machines are operating in Los Angeles, California, as part of the state's medical marijuana distribution network. Supporters say it allows medical marijuana users confidentiality, increases security, and lowers prices.

Fast Facts

1. Called "AVM" or "Anytime Vending Machines"
2. Guarded 24 hours a day
3. Prescription required
4. Requires special card, fingerprint
5. Package sizes: 3.5 grams, 7 grams
6. Strains available: 5
7. Limited to one ounce per week
8. February 8, 2008: Declared illegal by International Narcotics Control Board

1. Legalized by twelve states: AK, CA, CO, HI, ME, MT, NV, NM, OR, RI, VT, and WA
2. Federal law: Illegal
3. Use: pain, chronic pain, nausea, chemotherapy, cancer, insomnia, glaucoma
4. Hazards: lung cancer (if consumed via smoking), cognitive impairment, mood swings

1. Also called: Cannabis
2. Slang terms: Weed, grass, pot, Mary Jane
3. Effects: Euphoria, relaxation, appetite stimulation, tiredness, blood-shot eyes
4. 20 million Americans use it per year
5. 11 million use it regularly
6. 80 million have used it during their lifetime
7. Jewish religious law: Not kosher for Passover