Missouri beschränkt den Zugang von Patienten mit medizinischem Marihuana zu Freizeitaktivitäten

Cannabis advocates in Missouri are raising concerns over a state rule that prohibits medical marijuana patients from purchasing recreational cannabis once they reach their purchase limit. This regulation, implemented by the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, mandates that dispensaries monitor patient purchases to ensure they do not exceed their legal limit of six ounces of dried marijuana every 30 days. However, if patients reach this limit, they are barred from making any additional purchases as recreational consumers, despite the fact that recreational users can buy up to three ounces daily.

Andrew Mullins, executive director of the Missouri Marijuana Trade Association, criticized the policy as unconstitutional and inconsistent with earlier communications from state regulators. In a letter dated April 2023, Mullins expressed concerns that the interpretation of the law—requiring individuals to choose between being a medical or recreational user—contradicts the guidance provided to industry members just days after the start of recreational sales in February 2023. At that time, the Division of Cannabis Regulation had stated that patients aged 21 and older would also be eligible to purchase cannabis products as consumers.

Lisa Cox, a spokeswoman for the Division of Cannabis Regulation, acknowledged that the February communication was sent in error and clarified that the department is currently reviewing the policy in light of feedback from industry stakeholders.

Advocacy groups, particularly those representing minority communities, argue that this rule disproportionately affects individuals who are already facing challenges in accessing medical marijuana. Brennan England, Missouri state director for Minorities for Medical Marijuana, emphasized that the policy not only disrupts care but also exacerbates mistrust among communities that have historically struggled for legal access to cannabis. He called for a coordinated effort to repeal the policy and suggested that regulators engage in direct dialogue with affected patients and community leaders to better understand the impact of such regulations.

The ongoing debate highlights the complexities of cannabis regulations in Missouri, where medical marijuana was legalized in 2018 and recreational use followed in 2023. As the state reviews its policies, advocates stress the need for regulations that support rather than hinder patient access to cannabis, particularly for vulnerable populations who were early adopters of the medical marijuana program. This situation exemplifies the challenges within the evolving cannabis landscape, as states work to balance regulations while ensuring fair access for all users.