A Brookhaven medical marijuana dispensary made history on Wednesday, becoming the first in Mississippi to sell medical marijuana. The Cannabis Company welcomed its first patient, Debbie McDermott, who expressed her need for the medication due to chronic pain and other health issues.
The afternoon’s sales were delayed by 2.5 hours following McDermott’s order. Officials attributed the holdup to communication issues with the METRC system, which tracks medical cannabis from cultivation to sale. Mitch Parker, co-owner of the dispensary, expressed concern about the wait time for patients who have long anticipated access to their medication.
Co-owner Le Anne Penn noted that they received 21 customers on the opening day and anticipated a busy Thursday, with visitors from Brandon, Madison, Hattiesburg, and the surrounding areas. Most local patients had consulted with Dr. Vicky McLean at New Vitality Medi Spa, believed to be the only local physician participating in the medical cannabis program.
On the same day, the boutique medical cannabis company River Remedy began its distribution efforts statewide. Additionally, Hybrid Relief and Starbuds in Oxford made their first sales. The Cannabis Company sources its medical marijuana from Mockingbird Cannabis in Raymond.
Ken Newburger, Executive Director of the Mississippi Medical Marijuana Association, stated, “We have been working since 2018 to get medical marijuana to patients in Mississippi, and it’s surreal to see it finally come to fruition. This is just the beginning.” He remarked that as more businesses begin harvesting, patients will have increased access to medical cannabis across the state.
Regulatory Context for Medical Cannabis in Mississippi
Approved patients in Mississippi can purchase 3.5 grams of medical cannabis per day, six days a week—equating to about 3 ounces per month—while holding up to 21 grams at home. Patients must first confirm eligibility through a participating physician, nurse practitioner, or optometrist prior to registering with the state’s cannabis program and applying online for certification to obtain an electronic ID card for dispensary use.
The Cannabis Company celebrated its opening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and an open house. Penn remarked, “We are making history. This is a new industry, and we will be part of it.” She highlighted their extensive efforts and the community’s involvement in bringing the dispensary to fruition.
Parker, who transitioned from a 40-year career as a body technician to the cannabis industry, emphasized the potential to aid individuals who cannot use opioids or other pharmaceuticals. He raised concerns regarding Mississippi’s regulations limiting THC concentrates to 68 percent, believing that some patients with chronic pain might benefit from higher purity products.
For patient convenience, the dispensary offers an iPad to browse the available products, brands, strains, and their effects. Literature is also provided to assist customers in making informed choices.
In response to community questions, Penn invites open dialogue. “To anyone who feels unsure or resistant, we encourage you to come speak with us, do your own research,” she said. “Everyone should have the opportunity to make their own informed choices.”
