Additional public forums to be hosted throughout state
JEFFERSON CITY, MO – The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) will host four additional public forums throughout the state to accept suggestions from the public regarding the formation of rules and regulations for the program. DHSS hosted its first forum in Jefferson City on Feb. 13, and more than 300 people attended. · 5-8 p.m., Feb. 27 in Poplar Bluff – Three Rivers Community College, 2080 Tinnin Fine Arts Center· 5-8 p.m., Feb. 28 in St. Louis – TBA· 5-8 p.m., March 6 in Kansas City – TBA· 5-8 p.m., March 7 in Springfield – Ozarks Technical Community College
The forums will be opportunities for interested individuals to leave thoughtful feedback, verbally or written, about what should or should not be included in the medical marijuana program regulations. The scope of the discussion will be limited to suggestions for program regulation.
“The input received at the first forum hosted in Jefferson City was very helpful to us,” said Lyndall Fraker, Director of DHSS Section for Medical Marijuana Regulation. “The feedback we received from attendees was that the opportunity to have their voices heard was appreciated, so we have decided to extend these opportunities to other areas throughout the state.”
DHSS has now released its first draft of rules. This set of rules is specifically focused on the qualified patient and primary caregiver. Additional drafts of proposed rules addressing other components of the medical marijuana program will be posted online as they are drafted. DHSS encourages feedback on this draft as well as future drafts as these are not final. Suggestions can be submitted using the online suggestion form.
As of Feb. 20, a total of 434 pre-filed facility license application forms and fees totaling $3,128,000 have been received by DHSS. Of those, 237 are pre-filed application forms for dispensary facilities. DHSS has broken those down by congressional district:
· District 1 – 36
· District 2 – 17
· District 3 – 38
· District 4 – 27
· District 5 – 58
· District 6 – 14
· District 7 – 33
· District 8 – 14
DHSS will continue to post updates as they become available on its medical marijuana webpage.About the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services: The department seeks to be the leader in protecting health and keeping people safe. More information about DHSS can be found at health.mo.gov or find us on Facebook and Twitter@HealthyLivingMo.
