In Missouri, as Thanksgiving approaches, many residents are not only heading to the grocery store but also to the marijuana dispensary. The state has seen a significant increase in marijuana sales over the past year, with tax revenues tripling initial estimates. ReLeaf Resources Dispensary in Grandview has experienced a surge in customers, with the director of retail, Mitch Alexander, stating that they have been open 24/7 to accommodate the demand.
Customers have been coming from out of state to experience the legal recreational marijuana market in Missouri, contributing to the higher-than-expected tax revenue of $241 million. This revenue is used to fund healthcare for veterans, substance abuse programs, and other public services. According to Jack Cardetti from the Missouri Cannabis Trade Association, Missouri has been successful in transitioning people from the illicit market to licensed dispensaries.
The industry is expected to continue growing, with consumer acceptance increasing as the stigma around cannabis diminishes. Since the legalization of recreational marijuana in November 2022, 130,000 Missourians have had their nonviolent criminal convictions expunged. Overall, the cannabis market in Missouri is thriving, and it is projected to continue expanding in the future.
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