Understanding the Current State of Marijuana Legalization
Marijuana legalization has been a hot topic for decades, with many states across the country legalizing the drug for medical or recreational use. Currently, 36 states have legalized medical marijuana, and 15 states have legalized recreational use. However, the laws surrounding marijuana legalization can vary greatly from state to state, and even within states themselves.
The Current State of Marijuana Legalization in Missouri
As of now, Missouri has only legalized medical marijuana. In 2018, voters approved Amendment 2, which legalized medical marijuana for patients with qualifying conditions. The amendment allowed for qualifying patients to possess up to 4 ounces of marijuana per month and cultivate up to six plants. However, it’s important to note that the amendment did not legalize recreational use of marijuana, and possession of the drug without a medical card is still illegal.
Can You Smoke Medical Marijuana in Public Places?
Although medical marijuana is legal in Missouri, smoking the drug in public places is still illegal. In addition, patients must possess and use their marijuana in private locations with the consent of the property owner.
Can You Drive After Using Medical Marijuana?
Just like with alcohol, it is illegal to drive while under the influence of marijuana, even if you have a medical card. It’s important to wait until the effects of the drug have worn off before getting behind the wheel of a car.
Marijuana Legalization on the Ballot in Missouri
There is currently no proposal for the legalization of recreational marijuana on the ballot in Missouri. However, there is a push for the expansion of medical marijuana in the state. In January 2021, lawmakers filed House Bill 30, which would allow patients to grow their own marijuana plants and increase the amount of marijuana they can purchase from dispensaries per month. The bill has yet to be voted on.
Efforts to Legalize Recreational Marijuana in Missouri
Although there is no current proposal for the legalization of recreational marijuana in Missouri, there have been efforts in the past to make it happen. In 2020, a group called Missourians for a New Approach filed an initiative petition to put recreational marijuana on the ballot for 2022. However, due to COVID-19 restrictions, the group struggled to gather enough signatures to make it happen.
Conclusion
While Missouri has made strides in the legalization of medical marijuana, there is still a long way to go before recreational use of the drug is legalized. Efforts are being made to expand medical marijuana laws in the state, but it remains to be seen if the push for recreational legalization will gain enough momentum to make it to the ballot.
