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Medical marijuana sales in Arkansas have reached new heights in 2024, with significant contributions to state revenue and patient health. As the state continues to expand its medical marijuana program, this article explores the latest sales figures, the benefits of medical marijuana, and why obtaining a medical marijuana card is essential for Arkansas residents.
Record-Breaking Sales in 2024
Arkansas medical marijuana sales from January through October 2024 totaled $227.8 million, according to the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration (DFA). While this figure is slightly lower than the $234 million during the same period in 2023, the amount of marijuana purchased has increased, signaling a drop in product prices.
August: $23.9 million, 6,714 pounds sold.
September: $21.9 million, 6,196 pounds sold.
October: $23.4 million, 6,606 pounds sold.
With the addition of lower prices, these figures highlight the affordability of medical marijuana in Arkansas, making it more accessible to patients.
Dispensary Performance and Statewide Impact
Arkansas boasts 37 operational dispensaries, all contributing to the robust sales numbers. Among the top performers:
Suite 443 (Hot Springs): Over 772 pounds sold in August.
Natural Relief Dispensary (Sherwood): Nearly 551 pounds sold in the same month.
Custom Cannabis (Alexander): Over 323 pounds sold in August.
These dispensaries are critical not just for their sales numbers but also for their role in serving nearly 107,000 patients across the state, according to the Arkansas Department of Health.
Why Medical Marijuana Is the Right Choice for Arkansas Patients
In Arkansas, the medical marijuana program remains the sole legal pathway for accessing marijuana, offering a structured approach to patient care. Unlike recreational use, this system provides a personalized medical framework that carefully matches marijuana treatment to specific health conditions like chronic pain, epilepsy, and PTSD.
Dispensaries operate under strict state regulations, ensuring high-quality, safe marijuana products. Patients must navigate a specific process to obtain access: qualifying with an approved medical condition, consulting a state-certified physician, completing an online application with a $50 fee, and awaiting card approval. Once approved, patients can legally purchase up to 2.5 ounces of marijuana every 14 days, addressing their medical needs with professional oversight.
The medical marijuana program prioritizes patient health and safety, providing a controlled and regulated approach to accessing cannabis-based treatments. By requiring thorough medical assessment and maintaining rigorous product standards, Arkansas ensures that medical marijuana serves its intended therapeutic purpose.
A Boost for Arkansas
Medical marijuana sales in Arkansas have contributed significantly to the state’s economy. In 2024 alone, $25.8 million in tax revenue was generated:
State Sales Tax (6.5%): $13.2 million.
Privilege Tax (4%): $12.6 million.
These funds are reinvested into essential state services, creating a win-win situation for patients and the community.
Challenges and Opportunities Ahead
While the medical marijuana program thrives, Arkansas faces challenges in maintaining momentum. Factors include:
Price Sensitivity: Lower prices benefit patients but reduce overall revenue.
Regulatory Evolution: Expanding qualifying conditions could increase access for more residents.
These challenges present opportunities for Arkansas to refine its program, ensuring continued growth and accessibility.
The Future of Medical Marijuana in Arkansas
Since the first medical marijuana dispensary opened in Arkansas in 2019, patients have invested over $1.265 billion in medical cannabis, highlighting the program's significant impact on both patient health and the state's economic landscape.
Without a recreational marijuana program, obtaining a medical marijuana card remains the sole legal pathway for accessing cannabis in the state. This system provides more than just legal protection; it offers patients a safe, regulated approach to obtaining marijuana that can potentially improve quality of life for those dealing with qualifying medical conditions.
The medical marijuana card brings substantial benefits to patients. It ensures legal compliance with state regulations, provides access to high-quality, lab-tested products, and offers personalized guidance from both dispensary staff and physicians. For individuals struggling with chronic conditions, this carefully regulated system represents a potential pathway to managing symptoms and improving overall health.
Summary
Arkansas' medical marijuana program continues to thrive, benefiting thousands of patients while contributing to the state economy. Whether you’re managing chronic pain, anxiety, or another qualifying condition, now is the time to explore medical marijuana and apply for a medical marijuana card.
By choosing medical marijuana, Arkansas residents gain access to safe, effective treatment and support the state’s innovative program. Visit a physician today and take the first step toward improving your quality of life.
Get Your Medical Marijuana Card Today!
Medical marijuana is legal in Arkansas, and we can help you renew your medical card TODAY! If you qualify for your renewal, give us a call and we can help!
You need your medical card to access any of Arkansas’ medical dispensaries. Not to worry, because it is now easier than ever to renew your card with Arkansas Marijuana Card!
Telemedicine makes it easy for you to renew your card from the comfort of your own home!
Schedule an appointment with one of our physicians to get started today!
Doctors Who Care
Relief You Can Trust
Here at Arkansas Marijuana Card, we aim to help everyone achieve wellness safely and conveniently through increased access to medical marijuana. Our focus on education, inclusion, and acceptance will reduce the stigma for our patients by providing equal access to timely information and compassionate care.
Call us at (844)-249-8714 today, or book an appointment here.
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