The passage of Amendment 3 is bringing many changes to the marijuana industry! These changes are great for medical marijuana patients because Amendment 3 is expanding Missouri medical marijuana cardholders’ legal rights. We’ll explore four specific ways Amendment 3 is affecting your Missouri medical marijuana card below. If you’re due for renewal, don’t miss out on the benefits. Set up your appointment to renew your medical marijuana card over the phone!
Having your medical marijuana card offers special protections to workers that you cannot get from recreational use.
Your Missouri Medical Marijuana Card is Valid for Three Years
All Missouri medical marijuana cards used to be valid for only one year. Now, each medical marijuana card, whether you’re getting a new card or renewing your medical marijuana card, will be valid for three years. The expiration date of your current card will not change - if it expires on July 1st, 2023, that’s still the expiration date. However, when you renew it, the card will then be valid through July 1st, 2023.
Higher Purchase and Possession Limits
Barring special circumstances, all Missouri medical marijuana cardholders were allowed to purchase up to four ounces from the dispensary each month, and were allowed to possess up to eight ounces. Now, each Missouri medical marijuana patient will be able to purchase up to six ounces from the dispensary each month and will be able to possess up to 12 ounces.
Missouri Residency is No Longer Required to get a Medical Marijuana Card
The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services will no longer require proof of Missouri residency as a part of a new patient or renewal application for a medical marijuana card. A clear color photo of the patient and a photo identification card issued by a state or federal government entity will still be required. Therefore, folks visiting Missouri will qualify for a medical marijuana card to use while visiting.
Employer Protections Expanded for Missouri Medical Marijuana Patients
As was the case previously, employers may maintain a drug-free workplace and are not required to permit the use or possession of cannabis on their property. They may still take disciplinary action should an employee attempt to work while under the influence of marijuana.
However, it is now unlawful for an employer to discriminate against an individual based on their status as either a medical marijuana patient. For example, employers cannot discriminate against the lawful use of marijuana outside of the workplace and working hours. In addition, they cannot discriminate based on positive testing for the metabolites and other components of marijuana for those with qualifying documentation to show that they are a medical marijuana user. The provision also does not apply to those working in safety-sensitive positions.
Renew your Missouri medical marijuana card easily over the phone in a matter of minutes. Set up your renewal appointment, or new patient appointment, by CLICKING HERE.