Cannabis regulators announce extension on marijuana packaging compliance deadline amid global shipping delays
The Missouri Division of Cannabis Regulation (DCR) announced today a significant extension for cannabis licensees to comply with packaging and labeling regulations, in an effort to address concerns over global shipping delays and manufacturing lead times, according to the guidance.
Originally set for May 1, 2024, the compliance deadline has been pushed to September 1, 2024. This extension allows licensees additional time to ensure products meet the standards outlined in 19 CSR 100-1.120 before being transferred for sale. DCR has also provided a grace period until November 1, 2024, for dispensaries to sell existing marijuana products currently on the market.
The updated guidance comes in response to feedback from licensees struggling with delays in receiving compliant packaging materials. “After receiving feedback from licensees regarding potenial delays in global shipping and in manufacturing lead times impacting ability to receive packaging compliant with 19 CSR 100-1.120, the Division of Cannabis Regulation (DCR) is extending the date for compliance,” the letter reads.
Under the new guidelines, all marijuana products produced at licensed facilities must adhere to compliant packaging requirements before being sold to patients and consumers. Licensees found using non-compliant packaging after the deadline may face product discontinuation in the statewide tracking system, Metrc, along with potential notices of violation, fines, or other penalties.
Dispensary licensees will have until November to either sell off existing stock or transition marijuana products into compliant packaging. Any remaining marijuana product not in compliant packaging will have to be destroyed.
DCR emphasizes that any new product line or SKU produced after September 1, 2024, must undergo a preapproval process to verify compliance with the updated packaging and labeling regulations.
This is a welcome change for both operators and regulators as many licensees had feared increasing bottlenecks in the approval process.
