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Missouri Cannabis Education
Are There Protections for Cannabis Consuming Parents in Missouri ?
Part 2 of 3 by Leah Maurer , contributing writer
Leah
Leah Maurer , a native Missourian , is now a canna-journalist and activist living in Portland , OR . She is a co-owner of www . TheWeedBlog . com , a top national cannabis news and information publication , where she serves as the Editorial Lead . In 2014 , Leah founded Moms for YES on Measure 91 through grassroots efforts alone , it proved pivotal in the passage of the Measure , successfully legalizing recreational / adult-use cannabis in the OR . Leah is a social justice and cannabis activist at the core and hopes to see an end to the prohibition of cannabis globally .
12 July 2024
In the second part of my three-part series revolving around parenting and cannabis , we will take a deep dive into the regulations pertaining to cannabis and parents in Missouri .
Missouri ’ s evolving cannabis landscape has raised pertinent questions regarding parental rights and protections for cannabis consumers . With the passage of Amendment 3 and subsequent regulatory frameworks , parents who are cannabis consumers have many issues to navigate and advocate for themselves . The legalization of adult-use cannabis in Missouri marks a significant shift in state policy , bringing about new opportunities and challenges , especially for parents . Understanding the key laws and regulations surrounding cannabis is crucial for parents to navigate this new landscape responsibly .
Parental protections for cannabis consumers in Missouri are complex and multifaceted , encompassing various legal , social , and regulatory considerations . Let ’ s first look at the basics in terms of regulations .
Age Restrictions
One of the primary concerns for parents is ensuring that cannabis remains out of the reach ( locked up ) of minors . While adultuse cannabis is legal in Missouri , strict age restrictions are in place to prevent underage consumption . Parents should be aware that individuals must be 21 years or older to purchase , possess , or consume cannabis legally . It ’ s essential to educate children about cannabis , which was covered in part one of this series ( see the June 2024 issue at www . TheEvolutionMag . com ).
Responsible Consumption
Just as with many things , we continually try to be the best for our children and model the best behavior . In that light , parents should emphasize responsible use and set a positive example for their children . Missouri ’ s laws prohibit consuming cannabis in public places and while operating a vehicle , ensuring the safety of individuals and communities . Parents should also be aware of the potential risks of secondhand smoke and take precautions to minimize exposure , especially around children .
Regulatory Framework
Understanding Missouri ’ s regulatory framework for cannabis is essential for parents . The state has established a licensing system for cannabis businesses , including dispensaries , cultivators , and manufacturers , to ensure compliance with state laws and regulations . Parents should be informed about ( and learn ) where cannabis dispensaries are located in their communities and how they operate . No person under the age of 21 will be allowed to enter a Missouri cannabis dispensary . Additionally , parents should familiarize themselves with labeling requirements for cannabis products to ensure they are purchasing from reputable sources .
Legal Limits and Penalties
While cannabis is legal for adult use in Missouri , there are still limits and penalties for certain activities . Parents should understand the legal possession limits for cannabis products and avoid exceeding them to prevent potential legal consequences . It ’ s also essential to be aware of laws regarding driving under the influence of cannabis . ( Note : see Missouri legal possession limits for adult use and patients on next page .)
Now , let ’ s take a closer look at how the regulations may affect parents . Parental rights in Missouri are governed by various laws and regulations , including those related to child custody , visitation , and child welfare . While cannabis consumption itself is not illegal for adults in Missouri , it can still have implications in certain parental situations .