The state of Mississippi is among the few states in the United States that have not yet passed a comprehensive medical marijuana law. However, the state has enacted a limited medical marijuana program, which permits the use of low-THC cannabis products for specific medical conditions. This article aims to provide an overview of the current status of medical marijuana laws in Mississippi and the state’s restricted program.
According to current Mississippi law, only specific types of low-THC cannabis products are legal for medical use, defined as containing less than 0.5% THC and more than 15% CBD. Patients with qualifying medical conditions can possess up to 2.5 ounces of these products, but they must acquire them from a licensed dispensary.
The list of qualifying medical conditions for the limited medical marijuana program in Mississippi is relatively short, approved by the Mississippi Department of Health, and includes conditions such as cancer, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, Crohn’s disease, and terminal illnesses.
Aside from the limited medical marijuana program, Mississippi has a law in place that allows the use of medical CBD oil for specific conditions, such as the treatment of seizures, cancer, and other approved medical conditions by the Mississippi Department of Health. Unlike the limited medical marijuana program, this law does not require patients to obtain CBD oil from a licensed dispensary.
Despite these programs, Mississippi has not yet passed a comprehensive medical marijuana law, but a ballot initiative is expected to be on the ballot in November 2022, which would legalize medical marijuana for a more comprehensive range of medical conditions. If passed, the initiative would also allow for up to 38 dispensaries throughout the state.
In conclusion, Mississippi still lacks a comprehensive medical marijuana law, but the state has enacted limited medical marijuana programs and a law that permits the use of medical CBD oil for some medical conditions. With the upcoming ballot initiative, there is a possibility for Mississippi to have more inclusive medical marijuana laws in the future.