Published On: September 29, 2024By

Frequently Asked Questions About Recreational Marijuana: What You Need to Know

There’s been a growing curiosity about the ins and outs of buying, using, and enjoying marijuana in the state. By reading these FAQs, you’ll not only stay informed about what’s legal, but you’ll also learn about how to safely and responsibly enjoy cannabis in Missouri, whether it’s for personal use, understanding workplace policies, or knowing where you can and can’t consume. In short, staying informed is the key to enjoying Missouri’s recreational cannabis scene while avoiding any hiccups!

1. Is recreational and medical cannabis legal in Missouri?

Yes. Recreational cannabis has been legal in Missouri since December 8th, 2022 after voters approved Amendment 3 in November 2022. This law allows adults aged 21 and over to use cannabis for personal, non-medical purposes. Medical cannabis, on the other hand, has been legal in Missouri since 2018 for patients with qualifying medical conditions. To use medical cannabis you need a state-issued medical marijuana card. This gives you access to certain benefits (like higher purchase limits and lower taxes) that recreational users don’t have.

2. How much cannabis can I legally possess in Missouri?

For recreational users, the legal limit is three ounces of dried cannabis flower at a time. For medical marijuana patients, up to six ounces in a 30-day period is allowed, but this amount can vary depending on your doctor’s recommendation. Medical patients can also access more potent products compared to recreational consumers, which is especially useful for those managing chronic pain or serious conditions.

3. Where can I legally buy recreational and medical cannabis in Missouri?

For recreational and medical purposes, cannabis must be purchased at licensed dispensaries. Missouri has a growing number of dispensaries that serve either market or both. Many of these businesses will clearly indicate this. Dispensaries like Hippos often carry a fun variety of products providing plenty of options to explore whether you’re a recreational user looking for a new experience or a medical patient seeking specific relief.

4. What types of cannabis products are available for purchase?

Missouri dispensaries offer a variety of cannabis products to suit every preference. Here’s a quick rundown of what you can typically find:

  • Flower: The classic bud form for smoking or vaping
  • Pre-rolls: Conveniently rolled joints
  • Edibles; Think gummies, chocolates, or beverages
  • Concentrates: Like wax or shatter for dabbing
  • Topicals: Creams or balms for localized relief. With so many options, you can choose the method of consumption that fits your lifestyle or desired experience.
  • Vapes: Cartridges filled with cannabis oil, designed for vaping.
  • Tinctures: Liquid cannabis extracts, often taken sublingually (under the tongue) for fast-acting effects. This is especially useful for medical patients who need precise dosing.
  • Capsules: Pre-dosed cannabis pills. These are great for patients needing consistent and easy-to-take forms of cannabis.
  • Suppositories: A specialized medical product for those who need targeted relief and may not be able to use other forms of cannabis.
  • Transdermal Patches: A discreet way to absorb cannabinoids through the skin for long-lasting, steady relief—especially favored by medical users.

For medical patients, some products may be specifically formulated for them with higher potencies, different cannabinoid ratios (like more CBD or less THC, or a specific strain.)

5. Where is it legal to consume cannabis in Missouri?

Cannabis is legal to consume in private property only. It’s illegal to smoke, vape, or consume cannabis in public places, including parks, streets, and bars. If you want to enjoy some edibles or light up a joint, you’ll need to do it in the comfort of your home or a private residence. Be cautious with rentals, though—landlords have the right to prohibit cannabis use on their property.

6. Can I drive after using cannabis?

No. Just like alcohol, driving under the influence of cannabis is illegal in Missouri. Cannabis can impair your reaction times and judgment, so it’s important to wait until the effects have worn off before getting behind the wheel. Missouri has strict penalties for those caught driving while impaired, so make sure you stay safe and only drive sober.

7. Can I take cannabis across state lines?

No. Even though Missouri has legalized recreational cannabis, it is still illegal at the federal level. Once you cross state lines, you’re no longer just under state jurisdiction—you’re entering federal territory. The Commerce Clause in the U.S. Constitution gives the federal government authority over interstate commerce, meaning anything transported between states falls under federal law. So, even if you’re traveling between two states where cannabis is legal (like Missouri to Illinois), transporting it across state lines is considered a federal offense.

8. How is medical cannabis different from recreational cannabis?

Medical cannabis differs from recreational cannabis primarily in terms of purpose and accessibility. While medical cannabis is typically prescribed for individuals with specific conditions, it often contains higher concentrations of CBD and may include stronger doses of THC, depending on the product. In Missouri, access to medical cannabis requires a medical card, which comes with benefits such as larger purchase limits, lower taxes (around 4%), and access to a wider range of products. Recreational cannabis, available to adults 21 and older, is generally used for personal enjoyment, often focusing on the psychoactive effects of THC.

Instagram Icon

Sign up to get the buzz on happenings, freshest cuts, and discounts