The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) has successfully transferred a substantial amount of $5,459,169 in funds, which were generated through Missouri’s adult-use cannabis program. This transfer of funds is conducted in accordance with the stipulations outlined in Article XIV, Section 2, of the Missouri Constitution. Furthermore, this action has been officially sanctioned by House Bill 2010, which is set to take effect in 2024. The DHSS is responsible for distributing these funds to various recipient agencies, each of which plays a crucial role in serving the community and addressing specific needs.
The funds generated by Missouri’s adult-use cannabis program are allocated to the following recipient agencies:
Missouri Veterans Commission (MVC) ($1,819,723): This allocation is designated exclusively for the provision of health care and other essential services tailored specifically for military veterans and their dependent families. The aim is to ensure that veterans receive the support and care they deserve, recognizing their service and sacrifices.
Missouri State Public Defender ($1,819,723): This portion of the funds is earmarked solely for providing legal assistance to low-income Missourians. The objective is to ensure that individuals who may not have the financial means to afford legal representation can still access justice and receive the legal support they need.
DHSS ($1,819,723): This allocation is intended for grants to enhance access to evidence-based, low-barrier drug addiction treatment. The focus is on prioritizing medically proven treatment methods, as well as overdose prevention and reversal strategies. The grants also support both public and private treatment options, strongly emphasizing reintegrating recipients into their local communities. Additionally, the funds are used to support overdose prevention education and to provide job placement, housing, and counseling services for individuals with substance use disorders.
Including the transfer authorized by the Supplemental Budget, House Bill 14.495, the total amount transferred from funds generated by Missouri’s adult-use cannabis program this fiscal year is an impressive $50,659,825. This significant financial contribution underscores the impact of the adult-use cannabis program in generating revenue that can be reinvested into the community to address critical needs and support various initiatives.