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With Amendment 3 in effect, many inquiries have been coming in from Missourians. One long standing question that has gained renewed prominence is, "Is it possible to visit a dispensary in Missouri before receiving my card?" This query was initially raised by some applicants who were curious if they could access medical marijuana from a dispensary while their applications were being processed.
Today, the question persists among prospective individuals who wonder whether the legalization of recreational marijuana permits Missouri medical marijuana cardholders to visit a dispensary even without their card. However, the answer remains consistent in both cases: No, it is not allowed.
Regardless of how the question is formulated, the response remains unchanged, as per the regulations of the MMMP program.
MMMP Program Regulations for MMJ Cards
The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) is responsible for ensuring safe access to marijuana through the MMMP program regulations. Within these regulations, it is stated that patients can only buy medical marijuana in Missouri if they have a patient identification card issued by the Department.
So, these policies have important implications:
1. To buy medical marijuana from a licensed dispensary in Missouri, patients must present their MMJ card. No other form of identification, including a regular state ID card, is acceptable.
2. Patients with out-of-state medical marijuana cards cannot use them to buy medical marijuana from Missouri's state-licensed dispensaries, regardless of the card's validity in their home state.
In essence, the only valid document allowing access to medical marijuana in Missouri is the MMJ card.
Missouri Medical Marijuana Cardholder: More Things to Know
Besides adhering to the MMMP program regulations governing MMJ cards, it's crucial to be aware that the state has implemented a seed-to-sale tracking system for monitoring marijuana from its early stages of growth to the final point of sale.
In Missouri, can I visit a dispensary before my card arrives? The answer is no. The state's Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) maintains a patient record system that not only manages patient profiles but also keeps track of the amount of marijuana purchased by each patient monthly.
Each medical marijuana purchase is recorded by the system. This ensures that Missouri medical marijuana cardholders stay within their permitted monthly possession and consumption limits. This ensures easy regulation and safe access to medical marijuana.
Without these regulations and tracking systems, anyone could freely visit a dispensary and purchase any quantity of medical marijuana they desire. However, to prevent this, the state mandates that patients must always present their MMJ card when buying medical marijuana.
Therefore, if you have initiated your state application or are in the process of renewing your card, you must patiently wait to receive your card before being able to purchase medical marijuana from licensed dispensaries.
Recreational Weed is Now Legal: Can I Go to a Dispensary Without a Medical Card?
Is it possible for me to purchase from a dispensary without a medical card now that cannabis has been legalized? Can I visit a dispensary without a medical card?
The answer depends on the purpose of your visit: are you looking to buy medical marijuana or recreational marijuana?
If your intention is to purchase high-quality medical marijuana, then the answer is no.
However, if you simply want to buy recreational marijuana for leisure, you can visit a dispensary without needing your MMJ card.
Presently, existing medical marijuana dispensaries are obtaining a dual license to sell both medical and recreational marijuana.
Amendment 3 suggests implementing a seed-to-sale tracking system for recreational weed, and those interested in growing their own cannabis at home would need a state-issued marijuana card.
It remains unclear if the state will require adults aged 21 and above to also possess some form of marijuana card to access recreational pot at dispensaries.
In most legal states, a state-issued ID indicating you are 21 or older is usually sufficient, but it's best to stay informed about any specific legal requirements.
Remember, even though recreational weed is now legal, obtaining a medical marijuana card still offers more convenient access to marijuana.
The Importance of Patience
It makes sense that patients might be keen to look into the potential advantages of medical marijuana right now. But before visiting a dispensary, you must be patient and wait for your medical marijuana card to be obtained.
Depending on how many applications the DHSS receives, the application procedure might often take several weeks. It's critical to exercise patience during this time and avoid attempting to buy cannabis goods without a working card, as doing so could have negative legal repercussions.
Alternative Options for Patients During the Waiting Period
While patients eagerly await the arrival of their medical marijuana card, they do have alternative options to consider for managing their medical conditions:
- Explore CBD Products
- Consult with Physicians
- Seek Support Groups
Must Read: How To Renew Your Missouri Medical Marijuana Card Online?
Conclusion
It's crucial to look at alternative treatments while you wait for your medical marijuana license. To make the best choices for your health, stay informed about the cannabis products that are now accessible.
