By Kirk McCracken
Last month, a new law took effect that treats medical marijuana just like alcohol in regard to open container in vehicles.
Medical marijuana users can no longer drive around with an open container of marijuana products within reach of the driver or passenger. Senate Bill 786, which took effect Nov. 1, treats marijuana in a vehicle similarly to alcohol.
Marijuana must be kept in a sealed container and stored out of reach of the driver, ideally in the trunk. Opened cannabis products must typically be stored in a secure area not accessible while the vehicle is in operation, such as the trunk or behind the last upright seat in vehicles without a trunk.
The law also prohibits anyone from possessing any open container of marijuana in the passenger area, as well. It is now unlawful to consume medical marijuana or inhale secondhand marijuana smoke while operating a motor vehicle on a public highway or street.
Consumption in a vehicle by anyone, the driver or passenger, is strictly prohibited. Although it is a misdemeanor, the bill increases the fee for transporting an open container of an intoxicating beverage or marijuana from $100 to $250.
