Missouri communities focus on safe marijuana use and responsibility as legalization grows

SIKESTON, Mo. (KBSI) – It’s a team effort, with people advocating for safe marijuana usage and sales.

Donna Claybrooks, a Sikeston resident, is grateful for the legalization of marijuana and its benefits for her mental health and anxiety. “I don’t have to worry about going on the streets. I can do it in the daytime,” she said. “The right marijuana helps me focus. Now, I’m doing so much better.”

As marijuana use becomes more common in Missouri, communities are working to educate the public on safe and responsible use. Local police continue to emphasize that while marijuana has been legal for over two years, driving under the influence is still illegal.

Tyler Rowe, public information officer for the Sikeston Police Department, stressed the importance of responsibility when using any substance that could cause intoxication. “Whether you’re going to work at a drug-free workplace or caring for children, you must be responsible. Marijuana is a substance you can buy if you’re 21 or older, and you must use it responsibly,” Rowe said.

Stephan Phelps, owner of Grateful Headz in Sikeston, encourages customers to understand what they are buying and to find the right dosages and environment for safe use. “You wouldn’t drink Everclear the first time you drink alcohol,” Phelps said. “Know what you’re smoking or eating. Information is everything.”

With both marijuana and alcohol being legal, the age limit remains 21, and safety concerns like driving under the influence still apply. “As long as you’re old enough, you should be able to do anything in life,” Phelps said. “There should be limits on some things, but you should be able to do almost anything once you’re of age.”

Rowe added that when driving, it’s the same as with alcohol: keep the substance sealed and know that marijuana use must occur in a private domicile.