senate bill 491 Archives

Missouri Secretary of State Gives Approval to Cannabis Legalization Initiative

January 11, 2017

Missouri Secretary of State Jason Kander has given approval to an initiative that would legalize cannabis for those 21+.

In addition to legalizing cannabis for those 21 and older, the initiative would legalize medical cannabis for minors; given they have a qualifying condition and receive a recommendation from a physician.

The approval gives advocates the go-ahead to begin collecting signatures in an attempt to put the measure to a vote of the people in the 2018 general election. They must collect 82,000 valid signatures by May of next year to accomplish this.

A similar measure fell just 23 signatures short last year of being on the November ballot.

Missouri Proposal That Decriminalizes Cannabis Becomes Law Without Governor’s Signature

June 18, 2014May 17, 2014

Senate Bill 491, a proposal that greatly alters Missouri’s criminal code – including decriminalizing the possession of up to 10 grams of cannabis – has become law without Governor Jay Nixon’s signature. The state’s legislature approved the measure with an 169 to 17.

Under current Missouri law, the possession of any amount of cannabis can net someone a prison sentence of up to a year. Under Senate Bill 491, the charge for possessing up to 10 grams of cannabis would be reduced to a simple fine, rather than an arrestable misdemeanor. Charges involving cannabis cultivation and distribution would also be reduced.

Missouri Proposal That Would Decriminalize Cannabis Possession Approved by House and Senate, Sent to Governor

May 14, 2014May 10, 2014

With overwhelming support Missouri’s House and Senate has approved Senate Bill 491, a proposal to reform the state’s criminal code which includes a provision that decriminalizes the possession of up to 10 grams of cannabis. The measure, which has been sent to Governor Jay Nixon for consideration, was approved 29 to 2 in the Senate, and 140 to 15 in the House. The supermajority vote means that the Legislature would likely override a veto if Governor Nixon decides to take that route.

Under current Missouri law, the possession of any amount of cannabis can net someone a prison sentence of up to a year. Under Senate Bill 491, the charge for possessing of up to 10 grams of cannabis would be reduced to a simple fine, similar to a traffic ticket.