What Does Missouri’s Adult-Use Marijuana Legislation Entail?

Missouri has implemented legislation regarding the use and regulation of adult-use marijuana. This law allows individuals who are at least twenty-one years of age to legally purchase and possess marijuana. In a single transaction, a consumer can purchase up to 3 ounces of marijuana and possess the same amount at any time. Moreover, adult-use marijuana purchases are subject to a 6% tax, in addition to any local taxes.

Significant changes have also been made to facility licenses under this legislation. For general inquiries, contact the Division of Cannabis Regulation at PO Box 570, Jefferson City, MO 65102-0570. They are available via a toll-free access line at 866-219-0165 (9:00 am – 4:00 pm CST, Monday – Thursday) or via email at Cannabisinfo@health.mo.gov.

According to XIV Section 2 of the Missouri Revisor of Statutes, the purpose of the marijuana legalization regulation is to control the commercial production and distribution of marijuana under a licensed, regulated, and taxed system. This law focuses on making marijuana legal for adults over the age of twenty-one.

The Medical Marijuana | Health Services Regulation in Missouri provides a comprehensive discussion on the implications of living with medical marijuana laws. It’s important to note that recreational marijuana is distinct from the decriminalization of marijuana. Missouri’s law enforcement and judicial systems have already adjusted their approach towards prosecuting small amounts of marijuana.

Furthermore, XIV Section 1 addresses the right to access medical marijuana. It permits state-licensed physicians and nurse practitioners to recommend marijuana for medical purposes to patients with serious illnesses and medical conditions. This section also allows patients with qualifying medical conditions to access medical marijuana.

The Division of Cannabis Regulation has outlined an adult-use timeline from ballot to implementation, highlighting significant dates and milestones in the program’s development. As of November 8, 2022, Missouri approved Amendment 3, with the Department of Health and Senior Services releasing draft program rules shortly after. This timeline is crucial in understanding the evolution of marijuana regulation in Missouri.

On September 15, 2022, the Department announced the transfer of $13 million in funds from Missouri’s medical marijuana program to the Missouri Veterans Commission. This marks the fourth transfer, totaling $26,978,820. Article XIV includes a provision requiring that fees and taxes generated by the medical marijuana program, minus administrative expenses, be allocated to the Missouri Veterans Commission.