Missouri Cannabis Laws​

Navigating Missouri's cannabis laws is crucial for dispensary operators and patients to ensure compliance and safe practices. Missouri allows both medical and recreational cannabis use, with specific purchase limits, taxation rates, and regulatory requirements.

Every Dispensary Must Know

MO (Missouri) Laws at a Glance

Overview

Missouri has established comprehensive regulations for both medical and recreational cannabis use. Understanding these laws is crucial for dispensary operators to ensure compliance and provide safe, effective service to their customers. Here’s a detailed overview of Missouri’s cannabis laws at a glance.

Key Points

  1. Legalization and Ballot Initiative
    • Amendment 3: In November 2022, Missouri voters passed Amendment 3, a ballot initiative to legalize recreational marijuana use for adults 21 and over.
  2. Legalization Dates
    • Medical Marijuana: Legalized in 2018, with dispensary licenses awarded in January 2020.
    • Recreational Marijuana: Possession for adults 21 and over became legal in December 2022, and legal adult-use cannabis sales began on February 3, 2023.
  3. Purchase Limits
    • Recreational Use: Adults over 21 can purchase up to 3 ounces of cannabis at a time.
    • Medical Use: Medical patients are allowed 6 ounces of cannabis per 30-day period.
  4. Taxation
    • Medical Marijuana: Subject to a 4% state tax in addition to sales taxes.
    • Adult-Use Cannabis: Subject to a 6% state tax in addition to sales taxes.
  5. Regulatory Authority
    • The Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) oversees Missouri’s medical marijuana industry and ensures compliance with state regulations.
  6. Minors and Medical Cannabis
    • Persons under the age of 18 can receive a medical marijuana license through a primary caregiver with the consent of a parent or legal guardian, who will act as the primary caregiver.
  7. Seed-to-Sale Tracking
    • Dispensaries must use state-approved seed-to-sale tracking software to manage inventory and report sales to Metrc, ensuring transparency and compliance.
  8. Conversion to Comprehensive Facility License
    • Medical facilities wishing to serve both medical and adult-use markets can request a conversion to a comprehensive facility license, involving a plan for market service and community participation and a $2,000 nonrefundable fee.
  9. Training Requirements
    • Licensees are responsible for ensuring that all facility workers are trained in compliance with state regulations, including security measures, use of the statewide track and trace system, emergency response procedures, and facility-specific processes.
  10. Inventory Control
    • Every dispensary must designate an agent responsible for inventory control systems and procedures to ensure accurate tracking and reporting of all cannabis products.

By adhering to these key points, dispensaries in Missouri can ensure they operate within the legal framework, maintain their licenses, and provide safe and effective service to both medical and recreational cannabis customers.

Applying for Dispensary Licenses

Overview

Obtaining a dispensary license in Missouri involves a detailed application process, whether you’re converting an existing medical facility to serve both medical and adult-use markets or applying for a new dispensary license. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the application process for dispensary licenses in Missouri.

License Conversion for Existing Medical Facilities

  1. Conversion Request
    • Medical facilities wishing to expand to serve both medical and adult-use markets can request a conversion to a comprehensive facility license.
    • Submit a plan for market service and community participation via a web-based application.
    • Pay a $2,000 nonrefundable fee.
  2. Approval Process
    • The Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) will approve or deny the request within 60 days. If no response is received within this period, the conversion request is automatically approved.

Application Process for New Dispensaries

  1. Application Periods
    • The DHSS will announce periods for accepting applications on its website.
    • Applications must be submitted electronically through a department-provided system.
  2. Application Fee
    • Applications must include a nonrefundable application fee, the amount of which is published on the DHSS website.
  3. Microbusiness Applications
    • Microbusiness applicants not selected via lottery can request a fee refund within specified time frames.

Specific Application Requirements

  1. Operational Plan
    • Detail the dispensary’s operational plan, including:
      • Address
      • Legal names
      • Ownership details
      • Visual representation of ownership structure
  2. Attestation
    • Dispensaries must attest to not being under common control with testing facilities.
  3. Community Participation
    • Include plans for serving both medical and adult-use markets efficiently.
    • Promote participation from communities historically impacted by marijuana prohibition.

Approval, Denial, and Renewal Processes

  1. Lottery System
    • If the number of applicants exceeds available licenses, selection may involve a lottery system.
  2. Application Review
    • Applications are reviewed for completeness and compliance with state regulations.
  3. License Validity
    • Licenses are valid for three years.
    • Renewal requests must be submitted via the web-based system 30-90 days before expiration, accompanied by the published renewal fee.

Operational Compliance

  1. Commencement Inspection
    • Before commencing operations, dispensaries must pass a commencement inspection to ensure the facility meets all regulatory requirements for safety, security, and operational standards as defined by the state.

Microbusiness Facility Application

  1. Eligibility
    • Demonstrate financial eligibility, residency in disadvantaged areas, or being affected by marijuana-related legal issues.
  2. Specific Criteria
    • Microbusiness facilities have specific application criteria to support small business participation in the cannabis industry.

Location Requirements for Dispensaries

  1. Separate Licenses
    • Entities must obtain separate licenses or certificates for each facility.
    • Multiple licenses can be operated at a single location, subject to department approval.
  2. Annual Fees
    • Annual fees are due for each license or certificate, with the first fee due 30 days after issuance and annually thereafter.
  3. Proximity Restrictions
    • Facilities, including dispensaries, cannot be located within 1,000 feet of schools, daycares, or churches, with specific measurement criteria provided by Article XIV.
  4. Relocation Restrictions
    • Dispensaries can only relocate within their original congressional district.

By following these guidelines and requirements, dispensaries can successfully apply for and maintain their licenses, ensuring compliance with Missouri’s regulations and contributing to a well-regulated cannabis market.

Dispensary Ownership and Employment

Overview

Missouri has established specific regulations regarding the ownership and employment of dispensary facilities to ensure that only qualified and compliant individuals operate within the industry. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the ownership and employment requirements for dispensaries in Missouri.

Dispensary Ownership Restrictions and Requirements

  1. Ownership Restrictions
    • Individuals with disqualifying felony offenses cannot own, in whole or part, medical or marijuana facilities.
    • Owners must report any new felony charges within 30 days.
  2. Limitations on Ownership
    • An entity or individual cannot own more than 10% of the total number of licenses within a facility type.
    • Marijuana testing facilities cannot be owned by entities that also own cultivation, manufacturing, or dispensary facilities.
    • Microbusiness facility owners cannot own other types of marijuana or medical facilities.
  3. Ownership Disputes
    • If disputes impair facility operations or the department’s review process, the department may suspend or restrict operations or deny applications until the dispute is resolved.
    • Licenses can be revoked if disputes are not resolved within a year.

Dispensary Employment Requirements

  1. Agent Identification Cards
    • Employees, contractors, and volunteers must obtain an agent identification card before starting work at a facility.
    • Individuals performing temporary maintenance work for up to 14 days a year do not require an ID card.
  2. Age Requirement
    • Facility agents must be 21 years or older, with existing agents under 21 before the rule’s effective date allowed to continue working.
  3. Identification and Background Checks
    • Agent ID cards must be visible while working, and agents must also carry a government-issued photo ID.
    • Licensees may require criminal background checks for employment.
  4. Card Validity and Renewal
    • Agent ID cards are valid for three years, with renewal applications due at least 30 days before expiration.
    • Agents must keep their contact information up to date with the department.
  5. Application Process
    • Applications for agent ID cards must include personal details, a government-issued photo ID, employment confirmation, and applicable fees.
    • The department charges a $75 fee for processing applications.
  6. Denials and Revocations
    • Agent ID cards can be denied or revoked for reasons including:
      • Incomplete applications
      • Deceptive or false information
      • Fraudulent use of the card
      • Violations of Missouri laws or regulations
      • Refusal to cooperate with investigations

Key Considerations

  1. Compliance with Ownership Limits
    • Ensure compliance with ownership limits and restrictions to avoid potential penalties or revocation of licenses.
  2. Timely Reporting of Changes
    • Report any new felony charges or changes in ownership details to the DHSS within the required timeframes to maintain compliance.
  3. Employee Vetting
    • Conduct thorough background checks and vetting processes for all employees to ensure they meet the state’s eligibility requirements.
  4. Training and Documentation
    • Keep detailed records of employee training and ensure all employees understand and adhere to state regulations and facility policies.

By adhering to these ownership and employment requirements, dispensaries in Missouri can ensure they operate within the legal framework, maintain compliance, and provide a safe and professional environment for both employees and customers

Employee Training

Overview

Proper training for employees, contractors, and volunteers is essential for ensuring that dispensaries operate safely, securely, and in compliance with Missouri’s cannabis regulations. The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) has set out specific training requirements to guide dispensaries. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the training requirements for dispensary staff in Missouri.

Training Requirements

  1. Scope of Training
    • Security Measures: Employees must be trained in security protocols to protect the facility and its contents.
    • Track and Trace System: Training on the use of the statewide track and trace system (Metrc) to ensure accurate inventory management.
    • Emergency Response Procedures: Employees must know how to respond to emergencies, including medical emergencies, fire, and security breaches.
    • Facility Safety and Sanitation: Training on maintaining a safe and clean environment for both employees and customers.
    • Compliance with Department Rules: Comprehensive understanding of DHSS rules and guidance to ensure the dispensary remains compliant with state regulations.
    • Facility-Specific Processes: Training on processes and procedures specific to the dispensary’s operations and employee roles.
  2. Special Training for Certain Licensees
    • Transportation and Dispensary Facilities: Additional training focused on maintaining the confidentiality of customer information, verifying identities and ages, and understanding purchase limitations.
    • Dispensary Workers: Specific training on the characteristics and use methods of different marijuana strains, expected effect onset times, and age verification procedures for purchasers.
  3. Timing of Training
    • Initial Training: All required training must be completed within one week of an individual starting work at the facility.
    • Updates and Changes: Additional training must be provided whenever there is a change or addition to standard operating procedures (SOPs) that affect the employee’s role.

Record-Keeping and Inspections

  1. Training Records
    • Documentation: Licensees must maintain records of all employee training sessions.
    • Retention Period: Training records must be kept for a minimum of five years.
    • Accessibility: Records must be made available for review during facility inspections by the DHSS.
  2. Inspections
    • Compliance Checks: The DHSS will inspect training records to ensure that all employees have received the required training.
    • Corrective Actions: Any deficiencies in training compliance must be addressed promptly to avoid penalties.

Key Considerations

  1. Comprehensive Training Programs
    • Develop and implement comprehensive training programs that cover all required topics and ensure employees are well-prepared to perform their duties.
  2. Regular Updates
    • Regularly update training programs to reflect changes in regulations, SOPs, and industry best practices.
  3. Continuous Improvement
    • Foster a culture of continuous improvement where employees are encouraged to enhance their knowledge and skills.
  4. Monitoring and Compliance
    • Monitor employee performance and compliance with training requirements through regular evaluations and audits.

By adhering to these training requirements, dispensaries in Missouri can ensure that their employees are knowledgeable, compliant, and capable of maintaining a safe and efficient operation. This not only helps in meeting regulatory standards but also enhances the overall quality of service provided to customers.

Security Requirements

Overview

Missouri mandates stringent security measures for dispensaries to ensure the safety and integrity of cannabis products, facilities, and personnel. Compliance with these requirements is essential for maintaining a dispensary license. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the security requirements for dispensaries in Missouri.

Security Measures and Equipment

  1. Detection Devices
    • Unauthorized Access Detection: Facilities must have devices capable of detecting unauthorized access, which may utilize cellular or private radio signals to alert security personnel.
    • Automated Alerts: An automated system must be in place to alert local law enforcement of any unauthorized security breaches.
  2. Exterior Lighting
    • Surveillance Support: Exterior lighting is required for all buildings and the facility’s perimeter to aid in surveillance and deter criminal activities. Outdoor cultivation areas are exempt from this requirement.
  3. High-Definition Cameras
    • Coverage: Cameras (minimum 1920 x 1080p resolution) must cover all critical areas, including entrances, product areas, point-of-sale locations, and perimeters.
    • Footage Storage: Recorded footage must be stored for at least 60 days.
    • Camera Specifications: Cameras must not operate solely on wifi, must include a date and time stamp, and be installed to avoid obstruction or tampering.
  4. Access Control Systems
    • Limited Access Areas: Electronic or biometric systems must be used for limited access areas, ensuring only authorized personnel can enter.
    • Manual Locks: All external doors must be equipped with manual locks for use during power outages.
    • Entry Records: Records of entry into limited access areas must be kept for at least one year.
  5. Manual Silent Alarms
    • Immediate Alerts: Silent alarms must be installed at key points within the facility to allow employees to alert law enforcement immediately in case of security breaches.
  6. Physical Security Measures
    • Window Security: Use security film or shatter-proof glass on windows to prevent intrusion.
    • Secured Vaults: Store cannabis products in secured vaults to prevent theft.
    • Prevent Intrusion: Design windows and other access points to prevent easy intrusion.

Policies and Procedures

  1. Restricted Access
    • Marijuana Product Areas: Access to areas where marijuana products are stored or handled must be restricted to authorized personnel only.
    • Visitor Control: Visitors must be accompanied by an authorized employee at all times in restricted access areas.
  2. Security System Functionality
    • Monitoring: Regularly monitor the functionality of security systems to ensure they are operational and effective.
    • Law Enforcement Coordination: Keep local law enforcement informed about security personnel and measures in place.
  3. Inventory Control
    • Identification: Clearly identify authorized personnel with badges or other forms of identification.
    • Security Monitoring: Maintain constant security monitoring of inventory areas to prevent theft and unauthorized access.

Security Personnel

  1. Designated Security Manager
    • Responsibilities: A designated security manager must oversee security measures, conduct semi-annual security audits, and evaluate the credentials of contractors and third-party security providers.
  2. Security Training
    • Theft Prevention: Train security personnel in theft prevention techniques and emergency response procedures.
    • Emergency Response: Ensure security staff are trained in emergency response, including the appropriate use of force and crime scene protection.
    • Access Control: Provide both facility-based and classroom training on access control measures and security system use.

Key Considerations

  1. Regular Audits
    • Conduct regular security audits to ensure compliance with state regulations and identify areas for improvement.
  2. Employee Awareness
    • Ensure all employees are aware of and adhere to security protocols, including the use of silent alarms and access control systems.
  3. Incident Reporting
    • Develop a clear incident reporting procedure to ensure that any security breaches are documented and reported to the appropriate authorities promptly.
  4. Continuous Improvement
    • Continuously review and update security measures to address emerging threats and ensure the highest level of protection for the facility and its products.

By implementing and maintaining these security measures, dispensaries in Missouri can protect their operations, comply with state regulations, and provide a safe environment for employees and customers.

General Dispensary Operations

Overview

Missouri’s regulations for general dispensary operations are designed to ensure that cannabis businesses operate safely, efficiently, and in compliance with state laws. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the operational requirements for dispensaries in Missouri.

License Display and Visibility Restrictions

  1. License Display
    • Licenses must be prominently displayed near the main entrance of the dispensary to ensure visibility and compliance.
  2. Visibility Restrictions
    • Marijuana cultivation, manufacturing, sale, or display must not be visible from public places to maintain privacy and security.

Compliance with State, Local, and Federal Requirements

  1. Adherence to Regulations
    • Dispensaries must comply with all applicable state, local, and federal laws and regulations to maintain their licenses and operate legally.
  2. Quality Management Systems
    • Implement quality management systems within one year of operation approval to ensure consistent product quality and regulatory compliance.

Operational Approval and Product Origin

  1. Operational Approval
    • Facilities must receive operational approval from the Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) within specified timeframes. Failure to do so may result in license revocation.
  2. Product Origin
    • Only licensed entities can hold rights to marijuana products, which must originate from licensed Missouri cultivation facilities to ensure traceability and compliance.

On-Premises Consumption and Advertising Regulations

  1. On-Premises Consumption
    • Consumption of marijuana products on dispensary premises is strictly prohibited to maintain a professional and compliant environment.
  2. Signage and Advertising
    • Signage and advertising must comply with state regulations, including restrictions on content that is attractive to children and prohibitions on false or misleading statements.

Record Keeping and Recall Compliance

  1. Record Keeping
    • Maintain detailed records of all transactions, inventory, and operational activities for a minimum of five years to comply with state regulations and facilitate audits.
  2. Recall Notices
    • Dispensaries must comply with department recall notices, ensuring that any recalled products are promptly removed from sale and appropriately handled.

Key Considerations

  1. Operational Efficiency
    • Develop and implement standard operating procedures (SOPs) to ensure efficient and compliant day-to-day operations.
  2. Regulatory Updates
    • Stay informed about updates to state, local, and federal regulations to ensure ongoing compliance and adjust operations as necessary.
  3. Employee Training
    • Regularly train employees on compliance requirements, operational procedures, and best practices to maintain a high standard of service and adherence to regulations.
  4. Customer Service
    • Provide exceptional customer service while ensuring all transactions and interactions comply with state regulations and company policies.

By adhering to these operational requirements, dispensaries in Missouri can ensure they operate within the legal framework, maintain their licenses, and provide a safe and professional environment for their customers and employees.

Cannabis Inventory Control

Overview

Effective inventory control is crucial for dispensaries to manage their cannabis products, ensure compliance with state regulations, and maintain accurate records. Missouri mandates specific procedures and systems for tracking and managing cannabis inventory. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the inventory control requirements for dispensaries in Missouri.

Inventory Control Systems and Procedures

  1. Designated Inventory Control Agent
    • Each dispensary must designate an agent responsible for managing inventory control systems and procedures. This individual ensures accurate tracking and compliance with state regulations.
  2. Record Retention
    • Cannabis inventory records must be kept for at least five years to ensure traceability and facilitate audits by regulatory authorities.
  3. Measurement and Calibration
    • All marijuana products and waste must be weighed or measured with an NTEP-approved scale.
    • Scales must be recalibrated annually to maintain accuracy.
    • Monthly inspections of scales are required to ensure ongoing precision.

Track and Trace System

  1. Metrc System
    • Dispensaries must use the Metrc system to track all marijuana products from seed or immature plant stage until they are sold, tested, or destroyed.
    • All transactions and inventory changes must be entered into the Metrc system daily to maintain real-time tracking.
  2. Traceability Requirements
    • All marijuana products must be traceable in the track and trace system at all times.
    • Tags with traceability information are required for all plants and packaged products to ensure accurate tracking from cultivation to sale.
  3. Monthly Reconciliation Reports
    • Licensees must provide monthly reports that reconcile physical inventory with the records in the track and trace system.
    • These reports ensure that any discrepancies are identified and addressed promptly.

Inventory Discrepancy Management

  1. Documentation and Investigation
    • Any inventory discrepancies must be documented and investigated immediately to determine the cause and prevent recurrence.
    • Detailed records of the investigation and corrective actions taken must be maintained.
  2. Reporting Discrepancies
    • Dispensaries must report inventory discrepancies to the Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) within 24 hours of discovery.

Key Considerations

  1. Accurate Record Keeping
    • Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of all inventory transactions to ensure compliance with state regulations and facilitate audits.
  2. Regular Audits
    • Conduct regular internal audits of inventory to identify and address any discrepancies promptly.
    • Ensure that all inventory records are complete and accurate to prevent regulatory issues.
  3. Employee Training
    • Train all employees involved in inventory management on the use of the Metrc system and the importance of accurate record-keeping.
    • Provide ongoing training to keep staff updated on best practices and regulatory changes.
  4. Compliance Focus
    • Develop and implement standard operating procedures (SOPs) for inventory management that comply with state regulations.
    • Regularly review and update these procedures to ensure ongoing compliance and operational efficiency.

By adhering to these inventory control requirements, dispensaries in Missouri can ensure the accurate tracking and management of cannabis products, maintain compliance with state regulations, and provide a reliable and safe environment for both employees and customers.

Regulations for Dispensaries

Overview

Missouri’s regulations for dispensaries cover a wide range of operational aspects to ensure the safe and legal sale of cannabis products. Compliance with these regulations is essential for maintaining a dispensary license and providing a secure environment for customers and employees. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the operating requirements for dispensaries in Missouri.

Dispensary Operating Requirements

  1. Acquisition and Transfer
    • Dispensaries can acquire, transfer, and sell marijuana products, including seeds, clones, prerolls, and marijuana-infused products, from cultivation and manufacturing facilities, as well as from other dispensaries.
    • Retailers are permitted to create and sell prerolls but not to grind marijuana for prerolls or manufacture marijuana-infused products.
  2. Storage and Transport
    • Marijuana products and paraphernalia can be packaged, stored (including off-site), and transported according to state regulations.
    • Dispensaries can transfer products to and from their own warehouses, ensuring secure and compliant transportation.
  3. Distribution Limitations
    • Medical dispensaries can only distribute products to qualifying patients or caregivers.
    • Comprehensive or microbusiness dispensaries can serve both medical patients and adult-use consumers.

Facility and Staffing Design

  1. Public Entry and Screening
    • Public entry is limited to one access point for screening purposes, ensuring that only authorized individuals can enter areas where marijuana products are accessible.
    • Individuals under 21 are restricted from entering beyond the public access area unless they are qualifying patients or accompanying a qualifying patient or caregiver.
  2. Staffing Ratios
    • A specific facility agent to consumer/patient/caregiver ratio is required in areas where marijuana products are accessible to ensure adequate supervision and security.
  3. Drive-Through and Pickup Windows
    • Drive-through and pickup windows must meet certain design and security criteria to ensure safe and secure transactions.

Verification and Transactions

  1. Testing Verification
    • Dispensaries must verify through the state-wide track and trace system that products have passed mandatory testing and are not recalled or destroyed.
    • This ensures that only safe and compliant products are sold to customers.
  2. Sales Limits
    • Dispensaries must adhere to sales limits for both consumers and patients to ensure compliance with state regulations and prevent over-purchasing.
  3. Eligibility Verification
    • At the point of sale, dispensaries must verify the purchaser’s eligibility and authorization to purchase cannabis products.
    • All transactions must be recorded in the track and trace system to maintain accurate records and compliance.

Product Handling and Education

  1. Food Safety Standards
    • Marijuana-infused products intended for oral consumption must meet applicable food safety standards to ensure product safety and quality.
  2. Plant Sales
    • Dispensaries can sell marijuana plants under specific conditions and must comply with disposal regulations for unsold plants.
  3. Educational Materials
    • Dispensaries must provide educational materials on marijuana use risks, administration methods, and safe consumption practices to consumers, patients, and caregivers.
  4. Display Samples
    • Display samples must be securely stored and not dispensed to customers, ensuring product integrity and security.
  5. Secure Storage
    • All marijuana products must be securely stored when the facility is closed to prevent theft and unauthorized access.

Additional Provisions

  1. Cash Management
    • Dispensaries must limit available cash in retail areas and inform the public of this to reduce the risk of theft.
  2. Disposal Services
    • Dispensaries may offer disposal services for marijuana products, with a possible disposal fee and strict disposal timeline to ensure proper handling of unused products.
  3. Non-Marijuana Products
    • Non-marijuana products must be displayed separately from cannabis products to avoid confusion and maintain compliance with state regulations.

Key Considerations

  1. Compliance with Regulations
    • Ensure all operations comply with state regulations to maintain the dispensary license and avoid penalties.
    • Regularly review and update operating procedures to reflect changes in state regulations and industry best practices.
  2. Customer Service
    • Provide exceptional customer service while ensuring all transactions and interactions comply with state regulations and company policies.
  3. Staff Training
    • Train staff thoroughly on all aspects of dispensary operations, including compliance, security, and customer service.

By adhering to these regulations, dispensaries in Missouri can ensure they operate within the legal framework, maintain their licenses, and provide a safe and professional environment for their customers and employees.

MO Laws FAQs

Overview

Navigating Missouri’s cannabis laws can be complex. To help dispensary operators and customers understand these regulations, here are answers to some frequently asked questions about Missouri’s cannabis laws.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Is marijuana legal in Missouri?
    • Yes, both medical and recreational marijuana are legal in Missouri. Medical marijuana has been legal since 2018, and recreational use was legalized in November 2022.
  2. Who can apply for a medical marijuana patient license in Missouri?
    • Any Missouri resident with a qualifying medical condition, such as cancer, epilepsy, glaucoma, intractable migraines, and others, can apply for a medical marijuana patient license. A physician’s certification is required.
  3. How much weed can I buy in Missouri?
    • Adults over 21 can purchase up to 3 ounces of cannabis at a time. Medical patients are allowed 6 ounces of cannabis per 30-day period.
  4. How is cannabis taxed in Missouri?
    • Medical marijuana is subject to a 4% state tax in addition to sales taxes. Adult-use cannabis is subject to a 6% state tax in addition to sales taxes.
  5. What track-and-trace system does Missouri use?
    • Missouri uses Metrc as its state-approved seed-to-sale tracking system to manage inventory and report sales.
  6. How can I open a dispensary in Missouri?
    • To open a dispensary in Missouri, you must apply for a license through the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, comply with all application requirements, and pass a commencement inspection. The application process includes detailing your operational plan, demonstrating compliance with state regulations, and paying applicable fees.
  7. Can dispensaries advertise their products?
    • Dispensaries in Missouri must comply with strict advertising regulations. Advertising content cannot be attractive to children and must not make false or misleading claims. Dispensaries can create websites and social media profiles to provide general information about their location and products but must avoid direct advertising that encourages overconsumption or inappropriate use.
  8. What are the security requirements for dispensaries in Missouri?
    • Dispensaries must implement comprehensive security measures, including high-definition cameras, exterior lighting, access control systems, and automated alerts for unauthorized access. Facilities must also conduct regular security audits and maintain detailed security records.
  9. What are the packaging and labeling requirements for cannabis products?
    • Cannabis products must be packaged in tamper-evident, child-resistant containers with labels that include detailed product information, such as cannabinoid content, batch number, expiration date, and health warnings. The packaging must comply with state regulations to ensure product safety and transparency.
  10. What is the Prescription Monitoring Program (PMP)?
    • The PMP is a state-run program that monitors the dispensing of medical cannabis to ensure that patients do not exceed their purchase limits and that all transactions are tracked. Dispensaries must report all sales to the PMP every 24 hours.
  11. Can dispensaries sell cannabis to non-residents?
    • Dispensaries can sell cannabis to non-residents who are over 21 years old for recreational use. Non-residents must present a valid government-issued photo ID to verify their age.
  12. What are the qualifying conditions for medical marijuana in Missouri?
    • Qualifying conditions include cancer, epilepsy, glaucoma, intractable migraines, severe or persistent muscle spasms, terminal illness, and any chronic medical condition that causes severe pain or persistent muscle spasms, among others. A physician must certify that the patient has a qualifying condition.

Key Considerations

  1. Stay Informed
    • Regularly check for updates to Missouri’s cannabis laws and regulations to ensure ongoing compliance.
  2. Maintain Compliance
    • Adhere to all state guidelines regarding sales, advertising, security, and employee training to avoid penalties and maintain your license.
  3. Educate Customers
    • Provide clear information to customers about their rights, purchase limits, and safe consumption practices.

By understanding these frequently asked questions and their answers, dispensary operators and customers can navigate Missouri’s cannabis laws more effectively and responsibly.

Disclaimer: The material contained on this website and any attached or referenced pages has been compiled by UZIO for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be and is not considered to be legal advice. This post is current as of [01-July-2024]. Cannabis regulations are rapidly changing, and legal advice of any nature should be sought from legal counsel.

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