Mississippi has issued licenses to four businesses in Lafayette County for the purpose of dispensing medical cannabis. On August 5, the Mississippi Medical Cannabis Program unveiled a list of licensed establishments, bringing the total to 107 statewide, of which 93 are dispensaries.
Licensed Medical Cannabis Dispensaries
The Mississippi Department of Revenue has granted licenses to CannaMiss, LLC; Southern Crop Wellness IV, LLC; Hybrid, LLC; and Magnolia Medical Cannabis Company, LLC, all of which are based in Oxford. These dispensaries will acquire, store, transfer, and sell medical cannabis, related equipment, and educational materials to registered cardholders.
Business Opportunities in Cannabis
Ross Capwell of Magnolia Cannabis plans to open five dispensaries under one license, including a location at 101 Ricket D Britt, Suite 3B/4A, in Oxford. “This is a new frontier for all involved, so it will be interesting to be a part of it,” Capwell stated. With a background in magazine publishing, he recognizes the significant growth potential while acknowledging the inherent risks due to the current federal stance on cannabis.
Medical Cannabis Benefits
Despite federal prohibitions, 37 states have approved medical cannabis use for various medical conditions. Capwell believes in the product’s effectiveness, noting its fewer side effects compared to traditional prescription medications, especially opioid painkillers. “That’s why the majority of Americans feel it should be legal,” he added.
Mike Watkins, COO and co-founder of Hill Top Wellness, shared his personal experience with medical cannabis, highlighting its potential for transforming lives. “I went from taking 400 prescription pills a month to zero in less than a year,” he explained, emphasizing the positive change it has had on his PTSD.
Changing Perceptions
Hill Top co-founder and CEO Robert Langley Jr. echoed these sentiments, aiming to reshape societal perceptions of cannabis. “Cannabis is natural. It can significantly improve the lives of patients with conditions such as Parkinson’s,” Langley stated. Although Hill Top is not yet licensed, both Langley and Watkins are working towards launching their dispensary and transportation services.
Industry Growth and Future Prospects
The legislative journey for medical cannabis was challenging in Mississippi, but industry leaders predict that recreational cannabis may follow soon. “If Mississippi follows trends seen in other states, we could see recreational cannabis in three to five years,” Capwell noted. He expressed excitement about participating in this nascent stage of the industry.
