Hattiesburg City Council approved two conditional-use zoning variances for cannabis dispensaries, marking a significant advancement for medical treatment options in Mississippi. The council’s unanimous votes were received positively by local business owners.
Ryan Bennett, owner of REV stores in Hattiesburg, Ocean Springs, Meridian, and Tupelo, expressed that the dispensaries will enhance patient care. “This is a big opportunity for us to help people in crisis,” he stated. As a veteran of the U.S. Army, Bennett emphasized the personal importance of this initiative, noting that many veterans he knows could benefit from it.
Impact of Medical Marijuana Legislation
The Mississippi medical marijuana law, signed on February 2, has prompted cities and counties throughout the state to prepare for the growth, processing, and distribution of cannabis products. Medical professionals can prescribe medical marijuana to patients with any of the 22 conditions listed in the Mississippi Medical Cannabis Program, including cancer and Alzheimer’s disease.
Bennett highlighted that REV stores have been preparing for over two years to dispense medical marijuana, ensuring compliance with dispensary requirements and training staff accordingly. Initially launched as a vaping company aimed at helping people quit smoking, the business has evolved with the introduction of CBD and the subsequent passing of the Farm Bill in 2018.
Currently, over 100 licenses have been issued across Mississippi as of August 5, allowing eligible businesses to operate within this burgeoning market.
Holistic Approaches to Cannabis Dispensing
Cory Ferraez, owner of Ferrcann Dispensary, is committed to a comprehensive approach by managing the product “from seed to store.” Ferraez likened his operation to “the craft beer of medical marijuana,” focusing on quality and customer satisfaction. He also owns a CBD store, further showcasing his investment in the local cannabis industry.
Many potential customers have eagerly awaited the arrival of medical marijuana, and Ferraez noted that “excitement is building” among them. He anticipates a robust market following the launch.
The Hattiesburg Planning Commission had previously recommended approval for both dispensaries, with only one dissenting letter regarding odor concerns from a nearby property manager. With city approval secured, Ferraez and Bennett are now focused on finalizing their operations.
The Mississippi State Department of Health predicts that products will be available later this year, contingent on successful cultivation and safety testing. Bennett has indicated that they aim to open by December 1, pending product availability. The REV store will be located at 6335 U.S. 49, while Ferrcann Dispensary will be situated at 2772 Oak Grove Road.
Ferraez expressed gratitude for the city’s reasonable ordinances and excitement about establishing this industry in Hattiesburg. However, it’s worth noting that approximately 25% of local governments in Mississippi have opted out of the medical marijuana program, with roughly 85 of the state’s 423 cities and 19 out of 82 counties choosing not to participate.
