If you want to start a cannabis business and make sure you are entering into the industry legally, read on for some top tips and information relating to cannabis sales. We will specifically look at the Texas Compassionate Use Act and how this has legalized the sale and use of medical marijuana. Read on to discover why it is a good idea to start a cannabis business, how to understand the legality in Texas, and what medical marijuana cards are. By the end of this guide, you will understand licensed dispensing in Texas. We suggest you only ever sell to cardholders in order to keep your business legitimate and legal.
Why Start a Cannabis Business
There are several good reasons to start a cannabis business in the US this year. For one thing, there will always be a demand for these products. And for another, it is a great way to give back to your local community. Let’s break this down.
Medical marijuana is an increasingly common means for self-medicating discomfort and pain caused by cancer, chronic illnesses, and other complaints that reduce a person’s quality of life and ability to complete day-to-day tasks. Marijuana can alleviate symptoms and give the user a new lease on life.
As many of the illnesses treated by medical marijuana are lifelong, the demand for cannabis products will continue and you will never have a shortage of clients. You can be a positive influence in the lives of the people to whom you sell your stock. Medical marijuana can make a massive difference in a person’s life and your business will be a true asset to your community.
Texas Compassionate Use Act
The Texas Compassionate Use Act (2015) was passed to allow patients with intractable epilepsy to use low-THC products to alleviate their symptoms. According to the Texas State Law Library, the law now allows medical marijuana use for patients with “epilepsy, a seizure disorder, multiple sclerosis, spasticity, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, autism, cancer, post-traumatic stress disorder [or] an incurable neurodegenerative disease.”
Patients with any of these conditions can apply for a medical marijuana card, which allows them to legally purchase, possess and use approved cannabis products.
Medical Marijuana Cards
Patients cannot recommend themselves for medical marijuana cards. Instead, they must be referred by a physician qualified to recommend the use of medical marijuana.
If the physician decides the condition warrants medical marijuana use, they may enroll the patient in the Compassionate Use Registry of Texas (CURT). Anyone who holds a Texas medical marijuana card has undergone this process and is now legally allowed to purchase cannabis products from your store. These cards are your green light to sell your products legally and safely.
Only Sell to Cardholders
So, when it comes to your cannabis startup, you can run your business legally by being aware of these regulations and stipulations and only selling to people who have been approved to buy cannabis products. Only selling to cardholders is the best way to protect your startup and make sure you are operating legitimately.
This also protects the people in your community, as all of the people buying cannabis will be doing so with the end goal of managing their symptoms, not re-selling.
Licensed Dispensing in Texas
To make sure your cannabis business is above board, you will need to get all of the necessary paperwork in order. Make sure you understand the local licensing laws and comply with local regulations. Depending on where you are, you may require an agricultural license, a cannabis retail license, or a healthcare-related license. Sometimes, you might even need two of the above, or all three.
Generally, states make it quite easy for you to apply for a license online to start a cannabis business. You should be able to follow government portals and fill in a form digitally. This process is straightforward and not a huge hurdle in the starting of your new business. So, do not worry about this step.
Running a Successful Cannabis Business
Now, you will want to know how to run your startup successfully. One great tip is to network with other professionals in the industry. This might actually help you to get approval for a license in the first place. And beyond that, networking will get you in touch with useful business people who can support the growth of your business.
Some of your business contacts might be potential investors, or know investors looking for a new project. Make sure all of your networking is done with reliable and legitimate business people who operate within the law and comply with all regulations. This will keep your business legitimate and uncomplicated.
Make sure you are sourcing quality seeds from reliable and legal suppliers. This is crucial for the success of your startup. People will not return for subpar products, nor will they trust your business if you are linked to dodgy sellers. So, prioritize legitimacy and quality at all times. Build a loyal client base by treating customers well, highlighting the importance of quality in your store, and creating a safe and friendly environment.
It never hurts to decorate a store well. Use inviting colors and cool wall art to make people feel secure and comfortable in your shop. Greet customers with a smile and hire compassionate employees. With all of this in mind, you should be a big success!
Now you know why starting a cannabis business is a great idea, you are ready to get going on your new enterprise! There will always be a demand for medical marijuana, as it is used to alleviate the symptoms of several incurable diseases. Moreover, starting a cannabis business is a great way to help your local community. Just make sure you understand all of the stipulations in the Texas Compassionate Use Act. Read up on medical marijuana cards and licensed dispensing so you know how to stay above board when selling cannabis in Texas. Only sell to cardholders and make sure you are complying with state and federal laws. Good luck with your new business!