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Can Missouri residents legally possess and consume cannabis? Get the latest information on Missouri’s cannabis laws.
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Introduction
Cannabis is currently illegal in the state of Missouri for both recreational and medicinal purposes. However, it remains a priority for many Missouri lawmakers to change this, with several bills being proposed in recent years that would have paved the way for either the decriminalization or full legalization of cannabis in the state. So far, none of these bills have been successful, but the debate surrounding cannabis reform in Missouri is certainly ongoing.
What is the current status of cannabis in Missouri?
Missouri’s medical marijuana program
Missouri’s medical marijuana program is still in its early stages. The state began accepting applications for medical marijuana licenses in June 2019, but it could be months or even years before dispensaries are up and running.
Missourians with certain medical conditions can apply for a medical marijuana card, which will allow them to purchase cannabis from licensed dispensaries. qualifying conditions include cancer, epilepsy, Alzheimer’s disease, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and Crohn’s disease.
At the moment, there are no licensed dispensaries in Missouri. However, the state has issued licenses to six cultivators and two manufacturers. Once these businesses are up and running, they will be able to supply dispensaries with product.
It is worth noting that possession of cannabis is still illegal in Missouri, even for medical patients. However, the state has passed a law that protects medical users from being prosecuted for possession of up to 35 grams (about 1.2 ounces).
Missouri’s decriminalization of marijuana
In November 2020, Missouri voters approved an amendment to the state constitution that decriminalized the possession of small amounts of marijuana. The amendment went into effect on December 6, 2020.
The amendment prohibits the possession of up to 10 grams of marijuana for personal use. Possession of larger amounts is still a criminal offense, but is punishable by a fine rather than jail time.
The amendment also allows for the cultivation of up to six marijuana plants for personal use. Again, larger cultivation operations are still illegal.
It is important to note that while the possession and cultivation of small amounts of marijuana has been decriminalized, it is still illegal to sell or distribute marijuana in Missouri.
What are the implications of cannabis legalization in Missouri?
The passing of Amendment 2 in Missouri has led to many questions regarding the legalization of cannabis and its implications. Some people are for it while others are against it. However, the fact remains that it is now legal to possess and consume cannabis in Missouri. Let’s take a look at what this means for the state.
Tax revenue
As more states legalize cannabis, we’re seeing more and more discussion around the tax revenue that could be generated from legal sales. In Missouri, a state that has recently legalized medical cannabis, tax revenue is expected to be a major source of funding for the state’s new program.
According to a report from the Missouri Department of Revenue, legal cannabis sales in the state are expected to generate $58 million in tax revenue in the first year, and $100 million in the second year. The report estimates that total tax revenue could reach $266 million by 2025.
This money will be used to fund the state’s new medical cannabis program, as well as other programs and services that will be determined by the legislature. While it’s still too early to say exactly how this money will be spent, it’s clear that tax revenue from legal cannabis sales will have a significant impact on the state of Missouri.
Jobs
One of the most common questions people have about recently legalized cannabis is how it will affect the job market. With so many different industries being created or expanded by the cannabis industry, there are a lot of opportunities for people with all kinds of skillsets.
Cannabis dispensaries are popping up all over Missouri, and they need employees to work in them. Dispensary jobs can range from customer service to security to management, and many dispensaries are looking for employees with backgrounds in the medical or retail industries.
In addition to dispensaries, there are other types of businesses that support the cannabis industry, such as testing labs, grow operations, and manufacturers of cannabis products. These businesses also need employees with a variety of skillsets, from scientists to accountants to salespeople.
The legalization of cannabis has created a lot of new job opportunities in Missouri, and it is expected that these jobs will continue to grow in number as the industry expands.
Crime
The potential implications of cannabis legalization in Missouri are far-reaching and complex. While the full extent of these implications is not yet known, there are a few potential areas that could be affected by legalization. One of these is crime.
There is no definitive answer as to how cannabis legalization would affect crime rates in Missouri. However, some believe that it could lead to an increase in crime. This is because, under current law, the illegal sale of cannabis is a lucrative business for criminals. If cannabis were to be legalized, it would no longer be an illegal substance, and thus would no longer be as profitable for criminals. As a result, some believe that those involved in the illegal sale of cannabis would turn to other illegal activities in order to make money.
It is also worth noting that, while the exact effect of cannabis legalization on crime rates is not known, research on the matter has been inconclusive. Some studies have found that there is no correlation between cannabis legalization and increased crime rates, while others have found a small uptick in certain types of crimes (such as burglary) after legalization. The reality is that the jury is still out on this issue, and more research is needed to draw any definitive conclusions.
Conclusion
The dispensary must be a not-for-profit entity, and the total amount of marijuana dispensed must not exceed two ounces per month for each qualified patient. The Department of Health and Senior Services will license and oversee up to 24 dispensaries in Missouri
