Missouri voters made history on November 8, 2022, when they approved Amendment 3, legalizing cannabis for recreational use by a margin of 53-47%. This groundbreaking initiative, which appeared on the November 2022 ballot, is now a law in the state of Missouri, allowing adults aged 21 and over to possess and use cannabis for recreational purposes.
What is Amendment 3?
Amendment 3, designated on the ballot as Amendment 3, is an initiative that legalizes cannabis for recreational use in Missouri. The initiative includes the following provisions:
Possession: Adults aged 21 and over are allowed to possess up to three ounces of cannabis.
Cultivation: Registered individuals can cultivate up to six flowering cannabis plants, six non-flowering plants, and six clones for personal use. To be eligible for cultivation, an individual must pay an annual fee of $100.
Sales: Dispensaries licensed by the state can sell cannabis for recreational use with a 6% sales tax imposed on the product.
Tax revenue: Tax revenue collected from cannabis sales will be used for expunging non-violent cannabis offenses, providing healthcare for veterans, substance abuse treatment, and funding the state’s public defender system.
Local government: Local governments can impose a sales tax of up to 3%.
When did recreational cannabis become legal in Missouri?
Recreational cannabis became legal in Missouri on December 8, 2022, after voters approved Amendment 3. This means that adults aged 21 and over can now legally possess and use cannabis for recreational purposes.
When were the first sales of recreational cannabis made in Missouri?
The first licensed sales of recreational cannabis occurred on February 3, 2023, marking a historic moment for the state of Missouri.
Are there additional taxes on cannabis in Missouri?
At the April 4, 2023 election, many counties and cities in Missouri approved the additional sales tax of 3%. It is currently unclear if city taxes and county taxes will stack, but it is expected that additional taxes will be levied on cannabis products to generate revenue for the state.
In conclusion, Amendment 3 legalizes recreational cannabis for adults aged 21 and over in Missouri. The initiative allows for possession, cultivation, and sale of cannabis products while generating tax revenue for the state. With the recent legalization of recreational cannabis, Missouri has joined the growing list of states that have recognized the benefits of legalizing cannabis.