Missouri launches ‘Verified Dispensary’ program to identify licensed cannabis retailers
FOX23 News at 9 p.m
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo., (KBSI) — The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services Division of Cannabis Regulation has launched a new initiative aimed at helping patients and consumers identify licensed dispensaries and regulated cannabis products.
The “Verified Dispensary: We’re on the List” initiative includes a state-issued decal for licensed facilities. The decal features a QR code that links to an interactive map of licensed dispensary locations on the department’s website.
Division Director Amy Moore said the program is designed to help Missourians make informed decisions by clearly identifying businesses licensed and regulated by the state.
Under the initiative, consumers are encouraged to look for the Verified Dispensary decal displayed in store windows and to review product packaging before purchasing. Regulated products must be sold in child-resistant packaging and cannot mimic common candy or snack brands.
Labels will include a facility license number beginning with MAN, CUL, DIS, MBW, MBD or TES, indicating the product was grown, manufactured or tested by a state-licensed facility.
State officials say Missouri’s regulated cannabis industry operates under requirements that include multiple annual inspections, seed-to-sale inventory tracking, 24-hour video surveillance, state approval of packaging and labeling, mandatory product testing and background screenings for employees and owners.
Cannabis sold in Missouri’s regulated market must be cultivated, manufactured, tested and transported within the state.
Officials say tax revenue from cannabis sales supports the Missouri Veterans Commission; the Missouri State Public Defender System and substance use disorder education, prevention and treatment programs.
Consumers with questions about whether a facility is licensed can contact the Division of Cannabis Regulation call center at 1-866-219-0165 during regular business hours.
