Mississippi Marijuana Laws

Updated September 2019

Despite it’s conservative background, Mississippi is making progress when it comes to fair access to cannabis. Mississippi also has a unique history with cannabis, as Ole Miss (University of Mississippi) has been the country’s sole producer of federally legal marijuana in the United States. Learn more about Mississippi marijuana laws below.

Recreational Marijuana in Mississippi

Is marijuana legal in Mississippi? No. However, while Mississippi is unlikely to pursue full legalization of marijuana any time soon, the state has had decriminalization policies in place since 1978. Under the decriminalization policies, possession of up to 30 grams of marijuana is punishable only by a fine of up to $250. However, repeat offenses and possession of greater amounts can lead to jail time.

Possession and sale of 30 grams and above is a felony punishable by jail terms ranging from 3 years to 30 years and fines ranging from $3000 to $1000,000. If sale is made to a minor (and that too within designated areas such as schools and churches) carries double fines and jail terms. The state of Mississippi also imposes minimum mandatory sentences on possession of recreational marijuana, the highest being 10 years in case of possession of 5kg or more.

Progress may be on the horizon in the state. Advocates are currently working to collect 100,000 signatures in order to get Ballot Initiative 48 in front of voters in the 2016 election.

Medical Marijuana in Mississippi

Medical marijuana is illegal in Mississippi, in spite of a very limited low-THC law being adopted in 2014. As with most “Low THC” medical laws, only patients with intractable epilepsy qualify for access to the cannabis oil, which is provided by the University of Mississippi. The cannabis oil must contain less than 0.5% THC.

Unfortunately, the state has gone no further in creating access to medical marijuana.

CBD from Hemp Oil in Mississippi

Hemp-derived CBD products are legal under Federal Law in the United States; however, individual state laws are dynamic and fluid. Individual states may enact their own laws governing hemp-derived CBD.

Cultivation of Cannabis in Mississippi

Cultivation of cannabis is illegal in Mississippi outside of the University of Mississippi’s tightly regulated growing program for research

Legal Status of Other U.S. States

Stay up to date on the latest state legislation, referendums, and public opinion polls. Our Marijuana Legalization Map allows you to browse the current status of medical and recreational marijuana laws in other U.S. states and territories.

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