California's medical marijuana law, established in 1996 with the passage of Proposition 215, allows patients with qualifying medical conditions to use marijuana for therapeutic purposes. Patients must obtain a recommendation from a licensed physician and can then apply for a medical marijuana card, which provides legal protection for possession and use. The law permits the cultivation, distribution, and sale of medical marijuana through licensed dispensaries. Patients can access various forms of cannabis, including edibles, oils, and flowers, tailored to their specific health needs. This legislation marked a significant shift in how states approach marijuana use for medical purposes.