Marijuana Retail Dispensary Regulations in Arkansas

What Are The Requirements For Obtaining A License To Operate A Marijuana Retail Dispensary in Arkansas?

In order to obtain a license to operate a marijuana retail dispensary in Arkansas, applicants must meet the following requirements:

1. Be 21 years of age or older and have an Arkansas address.

2. Have a criminal background check conducted by the Arkansas State Police.

3. Submit an application packet to the Arkansas Medical Marijuana Commission (AMMC).

4. Complete an approved marijuana vendors training program.

5. Pay a $100,000 licensing fee.

6. Secure a location that is at least 1,000 feet away from any school, church, or daycare center.

7. Have an approved financial plan.

8. Show proof of ability to pay for the initial inventory of marijuana products.

9. Submit to an inspection of the proposed dispensary location by the AMMC staff and local authorities, including fire safety inspections.

Are There Limitations On The Number Of Marijuana Retail Dispensary Licenses Issued in Arkansas?

Yes, there are limitations on the number of marijuana retail dispensary licenses issued in Arkansas. The Arkansas Medical Marijuana Commission has capped the total number of dispensary licenses at 40.

What Zoning Restrictions Or Location Requirements Apply To Marijuana Dispensaries in Arkansas?

Marijuana dispensaries in Arkansas must be located at least three thousand feet away from any church, school, daycare facility, or public park. The dispensaries must also comply with local zoning laws and obtain approval from the local government before opening.

What Types Of Marijuana Products Can Be Sold In Retail Dispensaries in Arkansas?

In Arkansas, medical marijuana products can be sold in retail dispensaries include flower, pre-rolls, vaporizers, tinctures, concentrates, edibles, capsules, and topicals.

Are There Specific Labeling And Packaging Requirements For Marijuana Products in Arkansas?

Yes, there are labeling and packaging requirements for marijuana products in Arkansas. According to the Arkansas Department of Health, all medical marijuana must be labeled with the dispensary name, address, and license number; the date of manufacture; the THC and CBD content; the strain of marijuana; and the batch number. All marijuana products must also be child-resistant and comply with all other packaging requirements set forth by the Department.

How Are Marijuana Prices Determined And Regulated in Arkansas?

Marijuana prices in Arkansas are determined by market factors such as supply and demand. Prices may also be affected by the quality of the product, its availability, and the taxes applied to it. The state does not regulate the pricing of cannabis products, as it is not yet legal to buy or sell marijuana in Arkansas.

What Are The Security And Surveillance Requirements For Marijuana Dispensaries in Arkansas?

The security and surveillance requirements for marijuana dispensaries in Arkansas are as follows:

1. All marijuana dispensary premises must have an alarm system that can be monitored 24/7, and that can detect unauthorized entry, or tampering with any door or window.

2. All marijuana dispensaries must have access control measures in place to ensure that only authorized personnel can access the premises.

3. All marijuana dispensary premises must be equipped with a minimum of two exterior security cameras, with the view of at least one camera covering all points of entry and exits, as well as any parking areas.

4. All marijuana dispensary premises must be equipped with an interior video surveillance system, including at least one camera to provide full surveillance of the dispensary’s selling area.

5. The video surveillance system must be capable of recording all activities taking place within the dispensary’s selling area and must be monitored 24/7 by a central monitoring station or on-site staff.

6. All marijuana dispensaries must keep a record of all transactions, including the purchase and sale of marijuana and related products, and must ensure that these records are kept securely on site for a minimum period of two years.

Are There Restrictions On Advertising And Marketing Of Marijuana Products in Arkansas?

Yes, there are restrictions on advertising and marketing of marijuana products in Arkansas. Regulations are in place to protect people from false or misleading information about marijuana, including advertising. Advertising is limited to the following: (1) the licensee’s name, address, telephone number, website address, logo, or trademark; (2) a factual statement of the services and products offered; (3) a factual statement regarding the availability and pricing of the services and products offered; (4) a factual statement regarding the times at which the services and products will be available; (5) a factual statement regarding the location of the licensee’s dispensaries; (6) a factual statement regarding any health-related benefits associated with licensed marijuana products; (7) a factual statement regarding any safety-related benefits associated with licensed marijuana products; and (8) any other statements approved by the Alcoholic Beverage Control Division of the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration. All advertisements must include a disclaimer that states “This product has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.”

What Is The Minimum Age Requirement For Entering A Marijuana Dispensary in Arkansas?

The minimum age requirement for entering a marijuana dispensary in Arkansas is 21 years old.

Are There Restrictions On The Hours Of Operation For Marijuana Dispensaries in Arkansas?

Yes, marijuana dispensaries in Arkansas are restricted to operating between the hours of 8:00 am and 9:00 pm, seven days a week.

What Are The Tax Implications For Marijuana Retail Sales in Arkansas?

The sale of marijuana is still illegal in Arkansas and therefore no taxes are assessed on marijuana retail sales. The possession, distribution, and sale of marijuana are still illegal under Arkansas law. Any financial transaction involving marijuana is also illegal. Therefore, it should be noted that any attempt to evade taxes related to marijuana sales can result in criminal prosecution.

How Are Marijuana Dispensaries Monitored And Inspected For Compliance in Arkansas?

Marijuana dispensaries in Arkansas are monitored and inspected by the Arkansas Department of Health Medical Marijuana Section (MMS). The MMS inspects all registered dispensaries to ensure compliance with state laws and regulations. The MMS also monitors the dispensing of medical marijuana products to ensure that the products are within specification and that the dispensary is following all relevant laws and regulations. All medical marijuana dispensaries are required to maintain records of sales, purchases, and dispensing of medical marijuana. The MMS may also inspect these records to ensure that the dispensary is following all relevant laws and regulations. Additionally, the MMS may conduct random inspections of dispensaries as part of their compliance program.

What Training And Certification Requirements Apply To Dispensary Staff in Arkansas?

The requirements for dispensary staff in Arkansas are outlined in the Arkansas Medical Marijuana Amendment. According to the amendment, dispensary agents must complete the state-mandated training program and pass an examination administered by the Alcoholic Beverage and Control Division. Agents must also obtain a dispensary permit from the Arkansas Department of Health, and they must meet other requirements including submitting to a background check, submitting fingerprints, and providing proof of identity. Additionally, all agents must be at least 21 years old and complete an ethics course approved by the Department of Health.

Are There Specific Requirements For Record-Keeping And Inventory Control in Arkansas?

Yes, Arkansas does have specific record-keeping and inventory control requirements. These requirements are outlined in the Arkansas Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) Regulations. All records related to the purchase, sale, or possession of alcoholic beverages must be kept in a manner that enables accurate and efficient inspection and audit by the ABC Authority. Additionally, licensees must keep accurate records of all inventories of alcoholic beverages owned by them or held on their premises. These records must include a description of the type and quantity of alcoholic beverages in stock and the names and addresses of suppliers.

What Penalties Or Consequences Can Dispensaries Face For Violating Regulations in Arkansas?

The penalties for violating dispensary regulations in Arkansas vary depending on the severity of the violation. Generally, a dispensary may face fines, suspension, or revocation of their license. Additionally, criminal charges may be brought against dispensary owners or employees for violations of the Arkansas Medical Marijuana Act. Penalties for criminal offenses can include jail time, fines, probation, and/or community service.

Do Local Municipalities Have The Authority To Ban Or Regulate Marijuana Dispensaries Independently in Arkansas?

No, local municipalities do not have the authority to ban or regulate marijuana dispensaries independently in Arkansas. All laws related to the sale and use of marijuana are enacted and regulated by the Arkansas state government.

Is Home Delivery Of Marijuana Products Permitted, And Are There Specific Regulations For It in Arkansas?

No, home delivery of marijuana products is not permitted in Arkansas. All sales must take place at licensed dispensaries. There are also regulations governing the types of products that can be sold in dispensaries, how they must be packaged, and what labeling and marketing standards must be met.

What Are The Rules For Testing And Quality Control Of Marijuana Products Sold In Dispensaries in Arkansas?

At this time, there are no current laws or regulations specifically governing the testing and quality control of marijuana products sold in medical marijuana dispensaries in Arkansas. However, the state does require dispensaries to comply with the rules and regulations set by the Arkansas Medical Marijuana Commission. This includes requiring testing for contaminants and for potency levels. Additionally, dispensaries must also adhere to labeling requirements, including ensuring that all packaged products are labeled with the strain type, quantity of product, cultivation date, expiration date, THC and CBD percentages, and any other applicable information. Labels must also contain the phone number of the dispensary and a warning to keep out of reach of children.

Are There Restrictions On The Packaging And Sale Of Edible Marijuana Products in Arkansas?

Yes, there are restrictions on the packaging and sale of edible marijuana products in Arkansas. All edible marijuana products must be sold in child-resistant packaging and must clearly display the following information: the name of the product, the net weight, the percentage of THC, and any other warnings or directions required by the Arkansas Department of Health. In addition, edible marijuana products must not contain any component that could be attractive to children, including cartoon characters or shapes.

How Does Our State Handle Reciprocity For Out-Of-State Medical Marijuana Patients In Dispensaries in Arkansas?

Arkansas does not have a reciprocity system for out-of-state medical marijuana patients. A medical marijuana card from another state will not be accepted in Arkansas dispensaries. However, Arkansas does allow out-of-state visitors to purchase products from a dispensary with a valid Arkansas medical marijuana card. Out-of-state visitors may also purchase cannabis products for personal use from any Arkansas dispensary if they have proof of Arkansas residency.