Welcome to the Show-Me State! If you’re visiting Missouri this holiday season and looking to explore the state’s cannabis dispensaries and products, Patients has crafted a guide to enhance your experience.
If you’re visiting a marijuana dispensary in Missouri for the first time, there are a few things to keep in mind. In Missouri, individuals aged 21+ may purchase up to three ounces of marijuana flower or its equivalent in other forms such as edibles and concentrates per visit.
Before visiting, it’s important to understand the laws governing cannabis in the state, as well as what to expect from your experience.
When you arrive at the dispensary, you will be asked to present a valid government ID. Once inside, you’ll have access to a wide variety of marijuana products including flower, edibles, concentrates, vapes, topicals, and more.
What is the equivalent?
- Equivalent Limits: 3.5 grams of flower, or an eighth, is equivalent to 1 gram of concentrate or 100mg of THC in infused products. Recreational consumers may buy and possess up to 24 units at a time.
Preparing For Your Dispensary Visit
- Valid Identification Required: You must present a government-issued ID upon entry.
- Bring Cash: While many dispensaries off cashless payment options, it’s not a certainty. It’s advisable to bring cash for your purchase, at least for your first visit.
- Product Range: Expect a wide array of products including flower, edibles, concentrates, vapes, and topicals.
- Anticipating Wait Times: First-time visitors might face a wait, especially in some of the busier markets like Kansas City and St. Louis. Use this time to peruse the online menu and prepare questions for your budtender.
- Budtenders at Your Service: The retail employees will guide you through product selection based on your preferences and answer any questions. While budtenders aren’t allowed to give medical advice, many have first-hand knowledge or can share stories and preferences from other customers. Don’t be afraid to ask questions.
Medical Marijuana Considerations
- Reciprocity and Application for Non-Residents: Missouri offers reciprocity for out-of-state medical marijuana cardholders. Moreover, out-of-state patients can apply for a Missouri medical marijuana card, even without a program in their home state or an existing card.
- Tax Benefits and Expedited Service: Medical patients enjoy faster service at some dispensaries, but will always benefit from lower tax rates, capped at 4%. The sales tax on adult use purchases starts at 6%, but in some localities can be as high as 12%.
Responsible Consumption and Compliance
- Transport and Consumption Guidelines: Remember to transport marijuana in a sealed container and refrain from public consumption. Driving under the influence is illegal.
- Cross-Border Regulations: Transporting marijuana across state lines remains illegal, so enjoy your purchases while you’re in the Show-Me State.
Enjoy Missouri Responsibly
As you explore Missouri’s cannabis offerings, remember to enjoy responsibly and stay informed about the laws. Ask your budtender for recommendations, there are always new and exciting products hitting shelves. For ideas on what to try first, check out the TOP 10 CANNABIS CULTIVARS IN 2023 or find the nominees for Best Edible, Best Concentrate, Best Vape, and more here.
What do you think?