History of Cannabis Culture in Missouri
Early Days of Cannabis
in Missouri
The legacy cannabis market in Missouri has a rich history that dates back several years. Prior to the legalization of medical marijuana in the state, cannabis was largely considered illegal, and individuals caught possessing or selling it could face significant legal consequences. However, attitudes and regulations surrounding cannabis began to shift in Missouri over recent years.
Medical Cannabis Legalization
In November 2018, Missouri voters approved Amendment 2, which legalized medical marijuana for patients with qualifying medical conditions. This marked a significant turning point for the legacy cannabis market in the state, as it created a legal framework for the cultivation, sale, and use of medical cannabis. The amendment established a strict regulatory system overseen by the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, which includes licensing for cultivators, dispensaries, and other related businesses.
The legacy cannabis market also saw the emergence of a new industry in Missouri, with numerous entrepreneurs and investors seeking opportunities in the growing medical marijuana sector. This has led to the development of state-of-the-art cultivation facilities, dispensaries, and testing laboratories, creating jobs and generating revenue for the state. Additionally, it has given patients with qualifying conditions access to a range of medical cannabis products, offering potential relief from their symptoms.
Recreational Cannabis Legalization
Following the success of medical cannabis legalization, discussions about adult-use cannabis began to gain traction. Missouri, like many states in the United States, has a rich history when it comes to cannabis. While its journey toward adult-use cannabis legalization is relatively recent, it has seen significant developments in a relatively short time frame.
The year 2022 was a turning point for cannabis lovers in Missouri. A comprehensive adult-use cannabis legalization bill, Senate Bill 762, was passed by the state legislature and signed into law by the governor. This marked a significant milestone in Missouri’s cannabis history, allowing for the responsible use of cannabis by adults aged 21 and older.
With the passage of Senate Bill 762, the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services was tasked with establishing the regulatory framework for adult-use cannabis. This process involved licensing dispensaries, cultivators, and manufacturers, as well as setting guidelines for taxation and consumption.
Social Equity in
Missouri Cannabis
One crucial aspect of Missouri’s adult-use cannabis law was the inclusion of social equity provisions. The state aimed to address the historical injustices related to cannabis by offering opportunities for minority-owned businesses and expunging certain cannabis-related criminal records, providing a more equitable path forward.
The cannabis culture in Missouri is constantly growing, and Nature Med Dispensary was lucky enough to be one of the first dispensaries open when recreational use debuted in February 2023. Learn more about us and our connection to medical and recreational cannabis in Missouri by visiting our website.
