Advantages of Obtaining a Medical Marijuana Card in Missouri
With the legalization of Medical and Recreational Cannabis in numerous states across the US, Missouri joined the ranks at the end of 2022. However, the legalization of adult-use cannabis does not reduce the value of acquiring a Medical Marijuana Card in Missouri as it offers many advantages that surpass those provided by recreational cannabis alone.
These benefits range from significant cost savings to increased possession limits and much more! Therefore, let us explore the various advantages of obtaining or renewing your medical marijuana card in Missouri.
Missouri Cannabis Legalization
Let us delve into the background of cannabis in Missouri before we discuss the advantages of obtaining a medical card in the state.In 2018, Missouri witnessed the legalization of medical marijuana through the approval of Amendment 2 by the voters, known as the Medical Marijuana & Veteran Healthcare Service Initiative. This ballot measure granted patients the legal right to purchase & utilize medical marijuana, provided they registered with the DHSS and got a valid medical marijuana card.
Medical Marijuana x Recreational Marijuana
After a considerable period, voters finally approved Amendment 3 in November 2022, paving the way for the legalization & regulation of recreational marijuana in Missouri.
The implementation of this ballot measure commenced in February of the following year, resulting in the gradual opening of dispensaries catering to recreational consumers.
In states where both medical & recreational cannabis is legalized, many residents often question the significance of obtaining a medical marijuana card. However, what most people overlook is the fact that medical patients always get priority.
This priority status translates into numerous advantages for medical cardholders in Missouri.
They can enjoy discounted cannabis products, benefit from lower taxes, and in the event of a cannabis shortage, they will be given precedence in accessing it.
Let’s explore the additional benefits of obtaining your medical cannabis card, particularly in Missouri.
Perks of Acquiring a Medical Marijuana Card in Missouri
Although obtaining a medical card in Missouri may involve an initial fee, the perks accompanying these cards offset the cost swiftly and enhance the overall experience of cannabis consumption.
Once you acquire a medical marijuana card in Missouri, you can take advantage of the following benefits:
Employee Protection Benefit
Obtaining a medical marijuana card in Missouri brings a significant advantage in terms of employee protection.
While certain employers permit the use of medical marijuana but not recreational marijuana, possessing a Missouri Medical Marijuana (MMJ) card indicates that you utilize marijuana for therapeutic use.
By having a medical card, you can partake in cannabis consumption without worry, as long as it’s done strictly during your time and off work hours. This ensures that you can get the benefits of medical marijuana while maintaining compliance with your employer’s policies.
Higher Possession Limits
The possession limits for recreational & medical marijuana in Missouri vary significantly. Under Missouri marijuana possession laws, individuals with an MMJ card can purchase up to 4 ounces of marijuana within 30 days.
Moreover, if two independent physicians certify that a larger amount is necessary to fulfill your health requirements, you can exceed the four-ounce limit.
For medical marijuana cardholders in Missouri, possession limits are even more generous. If you do not cultivate marijuana at home, you can possess up to an eight-ounce supply (equivalent to a 60-day supply) of dried, unprocessed marijuana.
However, if you choose to grow marijuana at home, the possession limit increases to a 12-ounce supply (equivalent to a 90-day supply) of dried, unprocessed marijuana.
On the other hand, recreational users in Missouri are restricted to purchasing only 3 ounces of marijuana. This means that their supply depletes more rapidly, necessitating more frequent dispensary visits.
By obtaining a medical marijuana card in Missouri, you can enjoy higher quantities of cannabis in a single purchase, reducing the frequency of dispensary visits and ultimately saving a significant amount of money.
Savings via Lower Taxes & Exclusive Discounts
Being a medical marijuana patient in Missouri provides you with access to loyalty programs & special discounts at dispensaries, offering valuable cost-cutting opportunities.
Merely possessing a medical card marijuana can often lead to substantial discounts on your cannabis purchases, usually ranging from 30% to 40% off, which in itself is a significant saving.
Furthermore, the disparity in tax rates between medical & recreational marijuana is another avenue for cost reduction.
Medical marijuana is subject to a 4% tax, whereas recreational marijuana carries a 6% tax. Additionally, recreational marijuana may be subject to additional taxes, such as municipal taxes.
Simply put, having a medical marijuana card allows you to purchase your cannabis at considerably lower costs compared to those without a medical marijuana card.
Priority for Medical Marijuana Card Holders
The availability of marijuana is not limitless, and shortages can occur. However, in the event of a marijuana shortage in Missouri, the state prioritizes supplying products to dispensaries serving medical marijuana patients before fulfilling recreational dispensary demands.
As a medical marijuana cardholder, your health requirements take precedence, ensuring that you receive expedited service.
Obtaining a medical card in Missouri also grants you access to enhanced and quicker service, including the convenience of marijuana delivery.
It is important to note that this facility is exclusively available to medical patients, further emphasizing the benefits of having a medical marijuana card.
Lesser Age Limit
The ability to purchase and use recreational marijuana in Missouri is restricted to individuals aged 21 and over, as stated by Missouri marijuana possession laws.
However, there is an alternative for individuals who are under 21 but seek the benefits of cannabis. The age limit to apply for medical marijuana in Missouri is 18, allowing individuals to access medical cannabis before reaching the legal age for recreational use.
Furthermore, if you are a parent with children who could potentially benefit from medical marijuana, you have the option to apply for them.
As a caregiver, you can register with the state, buy the necessary products, and administer cannabis as required. The medical marijuana program in Missouri ensures that individuals of all ages are not excluded from accessing the benefits of medical cannabis.
Reciprocity: Purchase of Medical Marijuana in Other States
Also, when you travel to another state where medical marijuana is legalized, your Missouri medical marijuana card may be recognized through a concept known as reciprocity.
Reciprocity allows individuals with a valid medical marijuana card from one state to potentially purchase marijuana in another state where medical marijuana is permitted.
However, it is essential to note that not all states with medical marijuana legalizations have reciprocity agreements in place. And it is best to check the specific laws and regulations of the state you plan to travel to before assuming reciprocity applies.
Interested in purchasing premium quality medical marijuana products in the state of Missouri?
Obtain a medical cannabis card and legally buy medical marijuana from our licensed cannabis dispensaries in Missouri. For details, get in touch with us at +1 (816) 775-2920.
