TL;DR
As of 2018, CBD is legal in Missouri with specific conditions and restrictions tied to the THC content. Cannabidiol (CBD) comes from the Cannabis Sativa plant, which comes in two primary types – ‘marijuana’ and ‘hemp’. Once associated primarily with intoxication, the cannabis plant is now recognized for its potential therapeutic properties, primarily attributed to chemical compounds called cannabinoids. This blog post will delve into all the specifics about CBD and its legal status in Missouri.
The Current Legal Status – At a Glance
- Usage: Both medical and recreational usage of CBD is allowed
- Possession Limits: No defined possession limits
- Difference from THC Products: CBD products must contain less than 0.3% THC content
Overview of CBD Legislation
Key Terms
CBD or Cannabidiol is a cannabinoid derived from the cannabis plant, known for its potential health benefits, without the intoxicating effects. Hemp-based CBD contains 0.3% or less THC content and is legal in many areas. Marijuana-based CBD contains more THC and has much restrictive legal status.
Legal Landscape
Federally, the United States legalized hemp-derived CBD with the 2018 Farm Bill which removed hemp from the list of Schedule I Controlled Substances and made it an ordinary agricultural commodity.
Legal Status in Missouri
CBD is legal in Missouri, following the federal law on hemp-derived CBD. The state also has a medical marijuana program that allows for marijuana-derived CBD.
Regulatory Bodies
In Missouri, CBD is regulated by the Missouri Department of Agriculture (MDA) and the Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS).
Conditions and Restrictions
Hemp-derived CBD products in Missouri must contain no more than 0.3% THC. Full-spectrum products (that contain trace amounts of other cannabinoids) are allowed if they meet this condition. However, isolate or broad-spectrum products (that contain only CBD and no other cannabinoids) are also popular in the market.
Historical Context
In 2014, Missouri passed the House Bill 2238 which allowed the use of hemp extract (CBD) in certain circumstances. This law was further broadened with the 2018 Farm Bill which legalized hemp-derived CBD at the federal level.
Possession, Use, Cultivation, and Sales
CBD products can be legally purchased, possessed, and used in Missouri regardless of the individual’s medical status. The cultivation of hemp is allowed under both state and federal law. However, manufacturers of CBD products must comply with strict quality control and lab testing requirements.
Enforcement and Penalties
Violations of CBD laws in Missouri can lead to penalties, as defined by the respective state agency. The DHSS, for example, can impose fines or revoke licenses for non-compliance with the medical marijuana program rules.
Comparative Analysis
Missouri’s CBD laws are comparable to many other states where hemp-derived CBD is legal but marijuana-derived CBD is restricted to medical use. However, unlike some states, Missouri does not have possession limits for CBD.
Conclusion
In brief, CBD in Missouri is generally accessible and legal. However, businesses and consumers must stay aware of all the current laws and restrictions, ensuring they source and use CBD responsibly.
