Alabama becomes the 39th state to pass a Medical cannabis law, albeit more restrictive than most already in place.
On May 6th, Alabama passed the Alabama Compassionate Act through their House and the Senate, becoming the 39th state and the third state in the deep south to pass a medical cannabis bill. Unlike most states it is currently restrictive in what allows. Only pills, gelatin cubes, lozenges, oils, suppositories, nebulizers, and patches would be permitted.
In addition, it limits the number of companies in growing, distribution and sales of the product. According to a bill summary by the Washington DC-based Marijuana Policy Project, the Medical Cannabis Commission would license:
- Five vertically integrated businesses. The vertical operators could each have up to five dispensaries in different counties.
- At least four cultivation companies.
- No more than four processor businesses.
- No more than four dispensary companies, each of which could have up to three locations in different counties. More dispensaries could be approved if patient demand warrants it.
- Secure transporters.
- Testing laboratories.[1]
While Alabama is in the process of establishing their markets with a planned launch of September 2022, other states are currently fighting legalization. Mississippi is in a court battle over the interpretation of how the cannabis legalization measure, which passed by ballot vote, was put on the ballot. Alabama though is in a position to adapt to demands of the citizens and the politicians.
With almost every state having a law related to legal cannabis, the tide is changing. However, until there is a federal mandate it is still technically illegal for interstate trade. When talking with your clients, consult the rules and regulations of the state you conduct business in.
[1] https://mjbizdaily.com/alabama-lawmakers-pass-landmark-medical-cannabis-legalization-bill/?utm_medium=pushnotice&utm_source=mjbizdaily&utm_campaign=mjbizpush&utm_content=article
