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Disclaimer: The information below is fully based on our independent research. While our team does everything in their power to provide accurate and current information from credible state-run websites and resources, we are not lawyers or legal experts. As such, none of the following information should be interpreted as legal advice. Content on these pages is provided for informational purposes only and those with legal concerns should consult experts within their state.
In recent years, cannabidiol, one of the non-intoxicating cannabinoids found in marijuana and hemp, has become more and more popular throughout the country.Many residents of Mississippi have explored the potential benefits of CBD for conditions that range from arthritis and back pain to anxiety, insomnia, depression, and chronic stress.
Until recently, laws in many parts of the country concerning both hemp-based and marijuana-based CBD could be hard to understand. Because of this, many people want to check that their CBD product of choice is legal before they take use CBD oils, extracts or other preparations. Are you wondering “is CBD legal in Mississippi?” This is what we’ve learned about Mississippi’s CBD laws:
Is CBD oil legal in Mississippi?
CBD oil is legal in Mississippi, but is highly regulated. People throughout the state are allowed to buy hemp-based CBD products, as long as they meet the state’s requirements. Marijuana-based CBD products are only available through the state’s medical marijuana program.
While hemp cultivation was legalized federally through the 2018 Farm Bill, Mississippi is one of just three states that has not yet created a state hemp-growing program. At the current time, hemp cultivation remains illegal. A task force has been proposed to study the benefits of hemp cultivation in the state.
What are the current CBD laws in Mississippi?
Historically, Mississippi has had some of the country’s most stringent laws regarding hemp and marijuana. However, those laws have recently become slightly more liberal.
While Mississippi enacted a law to decriminalize marijuana possession in 1979, this reform does not go as far as laws in other states. Under the 1979 law, possession of less than 30 grams marijuana is treated as a misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of up to $250 and 90 days in jail. In most cases, probation is given in lieu of a jail sentence for first offenders. While most individuals arrested for possession are brought to the jail for booking, arresting officers have the option of accepting identification and a promise to appear in court.
At the current time, it is legal to buy hemp-based CBD products. There are no age or quantity limits. CBD products can be purchased in many forms as long as they contain at least 50 milligrams CBD per milliliter of product and no more than 2.5 milligrams THC per milliliter. Cannabis-based CBD is far more tightly regulated.
Mississippi passed a medical marijuana law in 2014. Under House Bill 1241, also known as Harper Grace’s Act, certain patients are legally allowed to use high-CBD extracts. The law allows for three research centers in the state to produce high-CBD extract, but does not assure that patients will have access. The extracts produced under Harper Grace’s Act must contain at least 15% CBD and no more than .5% THC.
In 2017, Mississippi lawmakers passed SB 2610, which allows CBD to be used in seizure treatment research. However, only participants in research programs are eligible for treatment under this law.
Hemp cultivation was legalized federally in 2018. However, it was left to the states to establish industrial hemp programs. Mississippi has not yet established a hemp grower’s program in the state.
The state did pass a bill that legalized the possession and sale of CBD products in state. HB 1547 allows CBD products that contain at least 50 milligrams CBD per milliliter. They must also contain no more than 2.5 milligrams THC per milliliter. Legal products must have a minimum ratio of 20:1 CBD to THC.
There are no specific restrictions when it comes to the type of hemp-based CBD products in Mississippi. CBD oil, extracts, elixirs, lotions and hemp flower are all legal. However, residents and visitors should be cautious when purchasing hemp flower. Police representatives have told new outlets that they continue to be on high alert for illegal drugs in Mississippi. They will arrest individuals who are in possession of marijuana lookalikes, and will test items for marijuana content.
Attempts at legalization of hemp cultivation have been made, but have not seen much success. In both 2014 and 2015, bills that would authorize the growing and handling of industrial hemp died in committee. A more comprehensive bill was brought to the House floor in 2019. This bill, HB 625, would allow for the growing and handling of industrial hemp. It would establish a licensing and record-keeping system. However, the bill died without being passed.
Hemp cultivation may be legalized at some point in the future. In 2020, House Bill 1547 was signed by Governor Tate Reeves. This law provides for the creation of a task force to study the cultivation of industrial hemp and to make recommendations based on their findings.
In the near future, Mississippians will also have more options when it comes to medical marijuana, including marijuana-based CBD products. In November 2020, voters chose between two medical marijuana measures on the ballot. They chose the less restrictive one, which would allow people with 20 different medical conditions to be prescribed up to 5 ounces marijuana per month by their doctors. At the time of this writing, the Mississippi State Department of Health is planning the implementation of Mississippi’s new medical marijuana law.
Can I purchase CBD in Mississippi?
Yes, you can purchase CBD in Mississippi. Hemp-based CBD products are available at a range of outlets. These include dedicated CBD stores, convenience stores, health food stores, boutiques, head shops and other outlets. It is also legal to order CBD products online and have them shipped to your Mississippi address. Many people choose to buy online in order to get access to a wider array of options.