Cannabis Business Licensing in Mississippi

Program Details

Type of Program

• Medical

Regulatory Agency

• Mississippi State Department of Health - Medical Marijuana Regulation and Licensure

History of Legalization in Mississippi

In April 2014, HB1231, "Harper Grace's Act," was signed into law by Governor Phil Bryant. The law allows physicians to direct or supervise the use of cannabis plant extract, oil, or resin with more than 15% CBD and no more than 0.5% THC for patients with severe seizure disorders. The regulations of this act made it one of the strictest low-THC oil laws in the country. 

In November 2020, voters were presented with Measure 1 asking whether or not to legalized medical cannabis in the state, which passed with 68.52% of the voter. Voters were then asked if legalized, which of two competing ballot measures shall be adopted. Initiative 65, a citizen-led ballot measure, was selected with 73.7% of the vote. The election results officially legalized a comprehensive medical cannabis program in the state. Qualifying conditions include chronic or debilitating pain, PTSD, and more.

Madison, MS Mayor Mary Hawkins Butler filed a complaint in late October, one week before Election Day, arguing that petitioners gathered signatures from outdated congressional districts. The state's highest court is scheduled to make a ruling in April 2021 to determine the fate of the program. 

Market Metrics

• Estimated Adult-Use Sales Year 1: $6 million (MGO)
• Estimated Adult-Use Sales Year 4: $66 million (MGO)
• Population: 2.9 million
• There are currently three research centers authorized to produce low-THC oil. 
• Qualifying conditions include chronic or debilitating pain, PTSD, and more.
  

Licensing  

• The Mississippi State Department of Health is currently tasked with establishing the production, regulation, and licensing structure for the medical cannabis program. Final rules must be adopted by July 1, 2021. 
• Patient identification cards and Medical Marijuana Treatment Center (MMTC) licenses must be issued by August 15, 2021. 
• There are no license caps, and local jurisdictions are not permitted to ban businesses.
• Vertical integration will be allowed but is not required.

How to Get Started

• Start by identifying properly zoned real estate. 
• State setback requirements are 500 ft from daycares, churches, and schools.
• Form a strong team with both cannabis and outside-industry experience.

To date, 3C has developed cannabis license applications for clients in over 50 markets globally. Our team is standing by and ready to help you plan for, complete, review, and submit your application. Now is the time to get a head start.