The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (MDHSS) oversees the administration, cannabis program, along with approval of all cannabis business applications. Currently, applications are being accept for cannabis transporter in the state of Missouri, with a launch date of September 4th, 2023 with a second round opening on June 6th, 2024 for the applications for Cannabis Microbusiness, Cannabis Facility, Cannabis Manufacturer and others.
Missouri Cannabis License Application Process
To apply, you must have a business name along with an EIN. Information about the persons of interest must be collected. You will need to submit an ownership structure form, a certificate of good standing form the Missouri Secretary of State, along with important descriptions of the proposed facilities systems, processes, physical security, and personnel.
To apply for a cannabis production facility in Missouri, the process would be:
- Research the requirements: The first step is to research the requirements and regulations for cannabis production facilities in Missouri. You can find information about licensing and regulatory requirements on the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) website.
- Create a business plan: A business plan is essential to secure funding and outline the steps needed to start a cannabis production facility. The DHSS may require you to submit a detailed business plan as part of the licensing application.
- Complete the application: You will need to complete a licensing application through the Missouri DHSS. The application will require detailed information about your business, including ownership structure, financial information, and security plans.
- Pay the application fee: You will need to pay an application fee when you submit your application. The fee varies depending on the type of license you are applying for.
- Pass background checks: All individuals involved in the cannabis production facility will need to pass background checks. The DHSS will review criminal history records for all owners, officers, and employees.
- Obtain local approvals: Depending on your location, you may need to obtain local approvals before you can start operating your cannabis production facility.
- Await approval: The DHSS will review your application and supporting documents. If your application is approved, you will receive a license to operate your cannabis production facility in Missouri.
It is important to note that the application process and requirements for cannabis production facilities in Missouri may change over time, so it is crucial to stay up-to-date with the latest regulations and requirements.
Eligibility Criteria for Missouri Cannabis License
To qualify as a microbusiness in Missouri, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements. You may claim more than one criterion, although it’s not a requirement. The state’s criteria include:
- Having a net worth below $250,000 and income below 250% of the federal poverty level for at least three of the past ten years.
- Possessing a valid service-connected disability card issued by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
- Being an individual (or their parent, guardian, or spouse) who has been arrested for, prosecuted for, or convicted of a non-violent marijuana offense at least one year prior to applying.
- Residing in a ZIP code or census tract area with elevated poverty levels, unemployment rates, historic incarceration rates for marijuana-related offenses, or unaccredited school districts.
Documentation Requirements for Missouri Cannabis License
Depending on the eligibility criteria claimed, the following documentation must be provided:
A. For Low Net Worth and Income:
- Financial statements demonstrating a net worth less than $250,000.
- Proof that the applicant’s household income was below 250% of the federal poverty guidelines for at least three of the last ten years.
To determine if your income qualifies, follow these steps:
- Identify the corresponding year.
- Determine your household number for that year.
- Ascertain the poverty level.
- Calculate 250% of the poverty level by multiplying the figure from step 3 by 2.5.
- Compare the resulting number with your household income.
B. For Service-connected Disability:
Applicants must provide proof of a service-connected disability, such as:
- A current veteran health identification card.
- A VA benefit summary letter or award letter.
- If none of the above proofs are available, some other evidence demonstrating a service-connected disability.
C. For Non-violent Marijuana Offense:
Relevant documentation includes:
- An arrest record.
- An FBI background check.
- A judgment of conviction or certificate of expungement.
- Proof of relationship (if the conviction pertains to a parent, guardian, or spouse).
D. For Residency in a High-Poverty, High-Unemployment, or High-Incarceration ZIP Code:
Applicants must provide proof of residence such as:
- Utility bills dated within the last four months.
- A current residential lease or mortgage.
- Recent real or personal property taxes.
- Proof that the ZIP code or census tract meets the poverty or unemployment criteria.
E. For Graduation from an Unaccredited School District:
Necessary documentation includes:
- Confirmation that the school district was unaccredited at the time of graduation.
- A certified copy of the applicant’s high school diploma or a letter from the high school confirming graduation.
F. For Residency in a ZIP Code with an Unaccredited School District:
Required documentation involves:
- Confirmation from the school district or a state accrediting authority that the district was unaccredited during the claimed residency period.
- Proofs of residency for three of the past five years (such as utility bills, leases, mortgages, or property taxes).
