Initiative 65: medical marijuana in Mississippi and what you need to know
On November 3, 2020, Mississippi voters not only cast their votes for the presidency but also faced a choice about the legalization of marijuana for medicinal purposes. The ballot measure, which passed, amends the state’s constitution to provide for the establishment of a medical marijuana program for individuals with debilitating medical conditions. The measure, however, offers little specific guidance or assurances for employers and directs the Mississippi Department of Health (MDH) to issue rules and regulations by July 1, 2021. Let’s take a closer look.
How we got here
Initiative 65 was placed on the ballot after more than 214,000 signatures were submitted in support. The Mississippi Legislature responded by placing a legislative alternative on the ballot, Alternative 65A. While Initiative 65 left much to be determined, Alternative 65A provided even less detail about the scope of medical marijuana in the state.
When casting votes, Mississippi citizens were first faced with the choice of selecting whether to allow medical marijuana in the state. Those who cast their votes in support of establishing the program then had to choose between either Initiative 65 or Alternative 65A. Even if people initially voted against establishing the program in the state, they could still decide to vote in support of either Initiative 65 or Alternative 65A.
After the votes were in, nearly 70 percent supported establishing the medical marijuana program, and almost 75 percent favored Initiative 65. The result: Initiative 65 will establish the program in the state.