Mississippi

Is medical marijuana legal in Mississippi?

Until 2022, marijuana use in Mississippi was strictly illegal at both the state and federal levels, with no exceptions. Even the decriminalization process took considerable time, following the trend in other states. However, through persistent efforts, progress was made.

Recently, Mississippi residents voted in favor of allowing medical marijuana use in the state, making it accessible to patients across the region. The application process for medical marijuana cards began in June 2022, with a five-day approval period for patient registrations. For licensing operations, the approval process may take up to 30 days.

To apply for a Mississippi medical marijuana card, patients must provide proof of their qualifying condition(s) along with a diagnosis from an approved medical provider. Under the new law, the state will establish and oversee legal medical dispensaries where patients can purchase their cannabis products safely and legally.

Is recreational marijuana legal in Mississippi?

As of now, Mississippi does not allow for recreational marijuana use. While they have recently passed a medical marijuana law, it may be some time before they consider legalizing recreational use.

For Mississippi residents who wish to use marijuana legally, obtaining a medical marijuana card is the necessary step. This card grants the privilege to purchase, cultivate, use, or possess marijuana within the confines of the law. Without a valid medical card, engaging in any of these activities would be a violation of both state and federal laws.

Medical Marijuana laws in Mississippi

After the governor’s immediate signing of the new Mississippi medical marijuana law, it will take some time for manufacturers and dispensaries to become operational and for patients to register properly, allowing them to purchase cannabis within the state.

For patients with qualifying conditions, the law allows the daily purchase of up to 3.5 grams of marijuana or one gram of concentrate. The monthly limit will be three ounces of cannabis in any form.

The law permits the use of cannabis in various forms, including flower, extracts, edibles, beverages, ointments, topicals, tinctures, oils, and even suppositories.

However, certain circumstances are still prohibited under the Mississippi law. Public consumption, use in the workplace, operating vehicles or transportation methods like motor vehicles, boats, trains, airplanes, etc., is not allowed.

Employers retain the right to drug test employees and decide whether to permit medical marijuana patients in their employ.

Federal laws still prevent CDL drivers and other federally-based employees from becoming medical marijuana patients in Mississippi. The Department of Transportation sets federal guidelines for drivers, which cannot be altered by the state.

As with most medical marijuana laws, the Mississippi law is likely to change and evolve over time.

Getting a Medical Marijuana card in Mississippi

Starting in June 2022, the application process will involve patients visiting a qualifying medical provider to obtain a diagnosis that matches one of the qualifying conditions listed below. They will then submit this documentation, along with proof of residency and the registration fee.

Once approved, the state will issue the Mississippi medical marijuana card, enabling patients to purchase marijuana from dispensaries across the state.

As the program develops, the state will offer additional resources for patients, caregivers, and qualifying providers, providing detailed information on the process and application guidelines.

Mississippi Medical Marijuana Qualifying conditions

The new Mississippi Medical Cannabis Program includes an extensive list of qualifying conditions and treatments, such as:

• HIV/AIDS
• Parkinson’s Disease
• Hepatitis C
• Alzheimer’s Disease
• Huntington’s Disease
• Muscular Dystrophy
• Spinal cord injury or disease
• Chronic pain or nausea
• Wasting Syndrome
• Seizures
• Severe or persistent muscle spasms
• Neuropathy
• Glaucoma
• Sickle Cell Disease

The state allows for further conditions to be added through petition in the future.

To register for a medical marijuana card in Mississippi, the fee is $25. Patients with limited incomes or specific circumstances may be eligible for discounts on the card fee, although specific details are yet to be determined.