Missouri voters haven’t even had a chance to vote on the marijuana legalization initiative that’s on the November ballot yet, but regulators are already taking steps to “begin planning” for passage, asking for public comment on “how the new law should be implemented.”
The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) said in an announcement on Thursday that if voters approve the cannabis reform measure in November, “it will require the Department to quickly make adjustments to the existing medical marijuana program and implement a new adult consumer program.”
“Because of this, the Department will begin planning now for these potential changes,” it said.
There was some uncertainty about the prospects of the Legal Missouri 2022 initiative in the run-up to its official certification last week, with early reports suggesting that signatures were short in a couple congressional districts. But Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft (R) has since affirmed that enough valid signatures were submitted for ballot placement.
The official encouraged voters to “study and educate themselves on any ballot initiative” in an announcement about the legalization measure’s certification.
As Missourians familiarize themselves with the reform proposal, DHSS said it will be proactive in preparing for implementation. Part of that preparation will involve accepting public comment.
“As was the case in implementing the medical marijuana program, the Department will…
