Public comment period open on amendment that bans psychoactive cannabis sales by liquor licensees

On November 1, the Missouri Department of Public Safety’s Division of Alcohol and Tobacco Control (ATC) announced a proposed amendment to regulations, targeting the sale and possession of psychoactive cannabis products at retail outlets licensed to sell liquor. This proposal aligns with ongoing efforts going back to an Executive Order issued earlier this year by Governor Michael Parson, which embargoed and restricted the sale of intoxicating cannabinoid products produced from hemp.

The proposed rule stipulates that any retailer licensed to sell liquor will be prohibited from selling or possessing any natural or synthetic cannabis derivative, or any cannabinoid intended for human consumption. The term “cannabis derivative” includes all substances derived from cannabis plants that produce psychoactive effects, whether from traditional or hemp-derived sources.

ATC projects that enforcing the amended rule will involve costs funded through a dedicated source, not impacting the general revenue, and anticipates varied economic effects on retailers, with lost sales potentially ranging from $15,732 to $240,000 annually per licensee.

The comment period is now open. To file a statement in support of or in opposition to the proposed amendment may be filed with the Division of Alcohol and Tobacco Control by mail, fax, or email.

Division of Alcohol and Tobacco Control Central Office 1738 E. Elm, Lower Level, Jefferson City, MO 65101