The legalization of recreational marijuana marks a historical decision for the state of Missouri. Missouri residents, as well as visitors to the state, can now purchase and use marijuana in accordance with the regulations outlined in Amendment 3. The regulations state that recreational marijuana must be purchased through a licensed dispensary by persons aged 21 and older; a person can possess no more than three ounces of dried, unprocessed marijuana or its equivalent in concentrate or edibles; recreational marijuana may not be consumed or possessed in public areas or on the property of public or private schools; and operating a motor vehicle, including boats and jet skis, under the influence of marijuana is prohibited. The addition of Amendment 3 to the Missouri Constitution has allowed for dispensaries, selling both medical and recreational marijuana, to open in and around Branson.* 

Missouri’s Legalization Through Amendment 3

In November 2022, Missouri voters approved the passage of Amendment 3, legalizing recreational, adult-use marijuana statewide. Medical marijuana has been accessible to qualifying Missouri residents since 2018, but that process has been entirely facilitated by the new recreational laws in place. Under Amendment 3, medical marijuana can now be prescribed by nurse practitioners and physicians, whereas before, certification from the Department of Health & Senior Services was required for medical marijuana patients. As of February this year, Missourians can now purchase marijuana for both medical and recreational purposes at licensed dispensaries across the state.

The passage of Amendment 3 is ushering in a number of other changes, which many believe could benefit Missouri and its residents. These include the removal of state prohibitions on the consumption, purchase, possession, delivery, manufacture, and sale of marijuana; limited personal cultivation for non-commercial use with a required registration card; expungement of certain non-violent marijuana-related offenses for most individuals; and a 6% tax on the retail price of marijuana products. Revenue generated by this tax will be used to provide healthcare to military veterans and their families, to fund drug addiction treatment programs, and to support the Missouri public defender system. In the first month that recreational marijuana was available for purchase at dispensaries in Missouri, $103 million in sales was generated. If sales continue at this rate, it is projected that the industry could bring in $1 billion in sales by the end of 2023.

Where can recreational marijuana be purchased?

The purchase of marijuana from anywhere other than a dispensary is still illegal, and violators are still subject to legal consequences. Branson residents and those visiting Branson who wish to purchase recreational marijuana are required to do so at a licensed dispensary. Some dispensary options include Greenlight located in Branson, while 3Fifteen Primo Cannabis and Thrive are located in Branson West.

Who can purchase recreational marijuana?

The age restriction for purchasing marijuana in Branson is the same as anywhere else in the state of Missouri. To legally purchase recreational marijuana at dispensaries in Branson and the surrounding area, one must be at least 21 years old and present a valid form of photo identification. 

Where is consumption permitted?

Amendment 3 says that recreational marijuana consumption is permitted anywhere that tobacco consumption is permitted. However, one cannot consume marijuana on public property or on private property that is, at that time, open to the public. For example, using marijuana in a park or walking down the sidewalk is prohibited. Those who do not adhere to these restrictions are subject to a civil penalty and a fine of up to $100. Consumption is permitted in private residences only.

Can visitors take marijuana home with them?

Visitors do not take the protection of Missouri marijuana laws with them when they leave. Transporting a controlled substance from one state to another is a federal crime, even if marijuana is recreationally legal in both states.

*The content contained in this article is intended for advertising purposes only. For further information on recreational marijuana use in Missouri, please visit the Missouri Department of Health & Senior Services website.