Possession Limits

Mississippi permits medical cannabis use with specific possession limits:

• Medical Patients: Qualified patients can possess up to 2.5 ounces (70 grams) of cannabis within a 14-day period.
• Recreational Possession: Possession of cannabis for recreational purposes is illegal and subject to penalties.

Cultivation Laws

Cultivation of cannabis in Mississippi is highly regulated:

• Home Cultivation: Home cultivation of cannabis is illegal for both medical and recreational users.
• Licensed Cultivation: Only state-licensed entities can legally grow cannabis for medical purposes.

Medical vs. Recreational Use

Medical Use

Mississippi’s medical cannabis program was established under the Mississippi Medical Cannabis Act in 2022:

• Qualifying Conditions: Conditions such as cancer, chronic pain, epilepsy, PTSD, glaucoma, and severe muscle spasms qualify patients for medical cannabis.
• Medical Card: Patients must obtain a recommendation from a state-licensed physician and register with the Mississippi Department of Health.
• Purchase Limits: Medical cannabis can be purchased from licensed dispensaries, with specific possession limits as defined by the program.

Recreational Use

Recreational cannabis use remains illegal in Mississippi:

• Possession: Possession of any amount of cannabis for recreational purposes is a criminal offense. Possession of up to 30 grams is a misdemeanor for first-time offenders, punishable by a fine of up to $250.
• No Legal Sales: There are no provisions for the legal sale or purchase of recreational cannabis.

Penalties for Violations

Violations of Mississippi’s cannabis laws carry significant penalties:

• Possession: Possession of more than 30 grams of cannabis is a felony, punishable by imprisonment and fines.
• Sale and Distribution: Selling or distributing cannabis without a license is a felony offense with severe penalties, including long-term imprisonment and significant fines.
• Cultivation: Unauthorized cultivation of cannabis is also a felony, with penalties depending on the number of plants and circumstances.

Recent Updates and Changes

Mississippi continues to refine its medical cannabis program:

• Medical Program Expansion: The state periodically reviews and may expand the list of qualifying medical conditions and allowable forms of cannabis.
• Regulatory Improvements: Efforts are ongoing to streamline the application process for patients and improve the regulation of medical cannabis dispensaries.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can tourists buy medical cannabis in Mississippi? A: No, only residents of Mississippi with a valid medical cannabis card can purchase medical cannabis from licensed dispensaries.

Q: Where can I consume medical cannabis in Mississippi? A: Medical cannabis consumption is legal in private residences. Public consumption is prohibited.

Q: How can I get a medical cannabis card in Mississippi? A: Patients must obtain a recommendation from a state-licensed physician and register through the Mississippi Department of Health.

Q: Are there any legal limits for transporting cannabis within Mississippi? A: Medical cannabis patients can transport their medication, but it must be in a sealed container and not in a public place.

Conclusion

Mississippi’s cannabis laws are currently focused on medical use, with stringent regulations and penalties for recreational use. Staying informed about these laws ensures responsible and legal cannabis use in the state.

Additional Resources

• Mississippi Department of Health – Medical Cannabis Program
• NORML: Mississippi Laws
• Mississippi State Legislature

By following this guide, you can navigate the cannabis laws in Mississippi confidently and responsibly.