Louisiana’s medical Cannabis program is growing, but it remains far too limited. In 2016, Louisiana became the first Southern state to enact a medical Cannabis law. At the time, there were no similar programs anywhere else in the South. Given its early adoption, the legislature chose a very conservative path. But nearly a decade later, that caution has turned into stagnation.

Today, most Southern states have passed medical cannabis laws—many with far broader access and more robust licensing. For example, Arkansas launched its program the same year as Louisiana but approved five producers from the outset and has since expanded to eight.

Despite serving 1.6 million fewer people, Arkansas patients now enjoy more product variety, better access, and lower costs.

Mississippi, which only launched its program in 2022, awarded a high number of licenses to cultivators, processors, and dispensaries. Their patients are already seeing the benefits: low prices, wide variety, and accessible care.

As Louisiana nears a decade of medical cannabis, it's clear—it’s time to expand the program and unlock greater opportunity for patients and businesses alike.

The Problem: A Manufactured Bottleneck

There’s no credible justification for limiting Louisiana to just two producers/processors. This artificial restriction, upheld by industry lobbyists, stifles competition, raises prices, and restricts patient choice.

To change this, we must organize and raise the voices of patients, families, and everyday citizens. That’s the mission of the Cannabis Council of Louisiana—to amplify the will of the people and drive policy change at the Capitol.

The evidence is undeniable. States like Arkansas and Mississippi prove that expanding licensing leads to lower costs and better access. To achieve these same benefits in Louisiana, we need more engagement from the very people this program is meant to serve—patients and the loved ones who support them.

Over the past six years, Louisiana’s program has made some progress. Satellite dispensary locations have improved access. Product variety has increased. Prices have started to decline.

But at the same time, industry consolidation has accelerated, raising serious concerns about long-term affordability, transparency, and accountability.

That’s why we’re stepping up. The Cannabis Council of Louisiana is here to be a strong, independent voice for both patients and responsible businesses who believe in a fair, open, and sustainable cannabis market.

We believe a well-designed Cannabis program can be both affordable for patients and profitable for businesses. Because federal law prohibits the shipment of full-spectrum medical Cannabis across state lines, Louisiana must meet the needs of its own patients

in-state. That means expanding access, increasing competition, and making sure no one is left behind.

Real Change Takes People Power

In Louisiana, two forces reliably move legislation: big-money lobbying or rooms full of citizens demanding change. We don’t have the money of entrenched interests. But we have something more powerful—people power.

If you’re a patient, an ally, a concerned citizen, or a business leader ready to make room for others, now is the time to act. This opportunity won’t wait.

Beyond Medical: Laying the Groundwork for Full Legalization

We also advocate for a broader, long-term goal: ending Cannabis prohibition in Louisiana. That begins with decriminalizing possession and paraphernalia, treating them as civil infractions—not criminal offenses. Why? Because a Cannabis charge can have lifelong consequences—blocking access to jobs, housing, education, and even parental rights.

Legalization must include industry expansion, so new companies can participate at every level. We should begin preparing now. After more than seven years of a functioning medical program, Louisiana is ready to grow.

Policy Priorities for a Stronger, Fairer Program:

1. Increase the number of licenses across all categories

2. Strengthen product labeling standards and require full Certificates of Analysis (COAs) via print or QR code at point of sale and online

3. Protect medical patients’ rights to care, including transplants and other treatments

4. Guarantee civil protections and parental rights for compliant medical patients

5. End or ease THC drug testing for non-safety-sensitive jobs

6. Offer optional medical ID cards via LA Wallet

7. Allow home cultivation, giving patients affordable access to the specific medicine they need

Real change in Louisiana’s Cannabis laws won’t come from special interests or deep pockets—it will come from everyday people who care enough to act.

We invite patients, families, advocates, business leaders, and public officials to stand with us. Your voice matters.

Let’s build a more just, inclusive, and effective Cannabis program for everyone who depends on it.

Now is the time.

Join us. Speak out. Shape the future of Cannabis in Louisiana.