.png)
The landscape of medical marijuana in Arkansas is evolving as dispensaries seek to relocate to better serve their patients and expand access. Recently, two dispensaries, Good Day Farm Hensley and Greenlight of Helena-West Helena, have applied for state approval to move to Benton and Brinkley, respectively. These relocations signal a growing commitment to providing quality medical marijuana to the residents of Arkansas.
The Need for Relocation
The decision to relocate dispensaries is driven by a variety of factors, including the need for better facilities, increased patient accessibility, and community support. Good Day Farm Hensley aims to move to 510 Highway 5 North in Benton, a location that offers improved infrastructure and accessibility. Similarly, Greenlight of Helena-West Helena is looking to relocate to 101 Industrial Drive in Brinkley, a move that has garnered support from local authorities, including Brinkley Mayor Billy Hankins.
Good Day Farm Hensley’s proposed move to Benton places the dispensary near Interstate 30, in a more central and accessible area. The new location is poised to benefit from increased visibility and easier access for patients traveling from various parts of the state. The site is owned by Camarato Properties LLC, and its proximity to Lost Pizza Co. Benton adds to its appeal.
Greenlight of Helena-West Helena’s relocation to Brinkley is seen as a strategic move to tap into a larger patient base. The site at 101 Industrial Drive offers ample space and the potential for future growth. Brinkley Mayor Billy Hankins has expressed strong support for this move, highlighting the economic benefits and increased access to medical marijuana for local residents.
The Relocation Process
The Arkansas Medical Marijuana Commission plays a crucial role in approving these relocations. The commission will review the proposals at their upcoming meeting, where they will consider factors such as community support, compliance with state regulations, and the dispensaries' plans for the new locations.
Arkansas law requires dispensaries to be located at least 1,500 feet from schools, churches, and daycare centers. Both proposed sites have been carefully evaluated to ensure compliance with these regulations. For instance, Good Day Farm Hensley’s new site in Benton is more than 1,500 feet from the Apostolic Christian Center Church, ensuring it meets the state’s zoning requirements.
Community support is a significant factor in the approval process. Greenlight of Helena-West Helena has received a letter of support from Brinkley Mayor Billy Hankins, who emphasized the positive economic impact the dispensary could have on the town. Such endorsements are crucial in demonstrating the community's readiness to embrace the dispensary.
The Importance of Medical Marijuana Card
While the relocation of these dispensaries is an important step in expanding access to medical marijuana, it’s essential to highlight the benefits of obtaining a medical marijuana card in Arkansas.
In Arkansas, recreational marijuana remains illegal. The only legal way to purchase marijuana is through the state's medical marijuana program. Qualified patients are allowed to purchase up to 2.5 ounces from a dispensary within a 14-day period. This makes obtaining a medical marijuana card the primary means of accessing marijuana products legally.
Patients with a medical marijuana card benefit from lower taxes on their purchases compared to what recreational users would face if recreational marijuana were legalized in the future. This financial incentive is significant, as it reduces the overall cost of obtaining necessary medication.
Medical marijuana dispensaries in Arkansas offer a range of products, including marijuana-infused items such as edibles, tinctures, and topicals. These products are specifically designed to meet the therapeutic needs of patients, providing them with tailored options that are not available through recreational channels.
The Role of Dispensaries in the Community
Dispensaries like Good Day Farm Hensley and Greenlight of Helena-West Helena play a vital role in the community. They provide access to medical marijuana, which can alleviate symptoms for patients with chronic conditions such as pain, anxiety, and PTSD. Furthermore, they contribute to the local economy by creating jobs and supporting local businesses.
The relocation of dispensaries to Benton and Brinkley is expected to have a positive economic impact. These dispensaries will create new jobs, from budtenders to security personnel, and will contribute to the local tax base. Additionally, they will attract patients from surrounding areas, increasing foot traffic and potential revenue for nearby businesses.
Access to medical marijuana can significantly improve the quality of life for patients suffering from a variety of medical conditions. By relocating to more accessible locations, these dispensaries ensure that more patients can benefit from the therapeutic properties of marijuana.
Future Prospects for Arkansas’ Marijuana Industry
The relocation of dispensaries is just one aspect of the evolving marijuana industry in Arkansas. As the state continues to refine its medical marijuana program, there is potential for further expansion and improvement. Continued efforts to enhance patient access to medical marijuana are essential. This includes not only relocating dispensaries but also increasing the number of dispensaries across the state to reduce travel times for patients.
Future legislative developments could also impact the marijuana industry in Arkansas. There is always the possibility of changes to existing laws or the introduction of new regulations that could further shape the landscape of medical marijuana in the state. The proposed relocations of Good Day Farm Hensley to Benton and Greenlight of Helena-West Helena to Brinkley mark a significant step in the evolution of Arkansas’ medical marijuana industry.
For patients, obtaining a medical marijuana card remains the key to accessing the therapeutic benefits of marijuana legally and affordably. As Arkansas continues to develop its marijuana industry, these changes promise to bring positive impacts to communities and patients alike.
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.
Comentarios