By SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS
More than 100 qualifying Alabama patients have purchased medical cannabis since the state’s first dispensary opened in Montgomery, marking a major milestone in the rollout of the state’s medical cannabis program.
After years of legal disputes, licensing delays, and anticipation from patients across the state, Alabama’s medical cannabis program is finally moving forward.
The Alabama Medical Cannabis Commission (AMCC) announced that more than 100 qualifying patients have purchased medical cannabis products since the state’s first dispensary opened earlier this month.
Callie’s Apothecary, Alabama’s first licensed medical cannabis dispensary, opened its Montgomery location on June 4. According to AMCC General Counsel Justin Aday, 102 patients completed 111 transactions during the program’s first days of operation, generating approximately $14,600 in pre-tax sales. The average transaction totaled $131.56.
The commission also reported that 481 patients have applied for medical cannabis cards, with 446 approved for participation in the program.
For many patients, the opportunity to legally obtain medical cannabis has been years in the making.
“I’m seeing a lot of happy patients,” said Vince Schilleci, owner of Callie’s Apothecary. “Our store manager saw a patient walking out, and as silly as it sounds, they jumped and clicked their heels. Yeah, they were that happy about having that medicine.”
Alabama’s medical cannabis law, enacted in 2021, allows certified physicians to recommend cannabis products for approximately 15 qualifying conditions, including cancer, PTSD, Parkinson’s disease, chronic pain, sickle cell anemia, and terminal illnesses. Smoking cannabis remains prohibited under state law. Approved forms include tablets, tinctures, oils, patches, creams, and gel cubes.
As of Thursday, 52 physicians had been certified to recommend medical cannabis in Alabama, and additional dispensaries are expected to open across the state later this summer.
“I would do it again just to see the smile on these patients’ faces,” Schilleci said. “It’s been worth it. There’s no doubt.”
Source: Alabama Medical Cannabis Commission; statements from AMCC General Counsel Justin Aday and Callie’s Apothecary owner Vince Schilleci.