What do you need to work in cannabis in Arkansas

How to Work in a Dispensary in Arkansas: A Complete Guide

Arkansas may not have an adult-use cannabis market, but the state’s medical cannabis industry continues to grow steadily. After voters approved medical marijuana in 2016, dispensaries began selling products to patients in 2019. By 2021, nearly 100,000 patients had received medical cannabis cards, and the industry employed more than 1,200 people. If you’re considering a career in this expanding sector, it’s essential to understand the specific requirements for working in a dispensary in Arkansas.

Overview of Arkansas Cannabis Industry

A November 2022 ballot initiative (Issue 4) that aimed to legalize adult-use cannabis failed, but Arkansas continues to allow medical marijuana. In 2022, the state’s medical marijuana sales were expected to reach $139 million, a substantial increase from 2020. Several agencies regulate the industry, including the Medical Marijuana Commission, the Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) agency, and the Arkansas Department of Health.

Currently, 36 dispensaries operate under the 38 licenses issued. Arkansas remains conservative in issuing cannabis licenses, with strict rules and limited dispensary and cultivation licenses. However, this controlled market offers significant job opportunities for those interested in the cannabis industry.

How to Become a Dispensary Worker in Arkansas

To work in a dispensary or any plant-touching role in Arkansas, you must obtain a Registry Identification Card. The Alcoholic Beverage Control Division issues this card, and the application process is facilitated by your employer.

Here are the key requirements for working in a cannabis dispensary in Arkansas:

• Completed Application Form: The process begins with a form from the ABC, requiring your legal name, date of birth, current address, and employment information, including your intended position.
• Notice of Intent to Hire: Your employer submits a “Notice of Intent to Hire” form, outlining your job duties.
• Notarized Release of Information Form: You must sign and notarize a form granting permission for background checks.
• Criminal Background Check: You’ll undergo an in-state background check by the Arkansas State Police, with fingerprints sent to the FBI for a national criminal history check. You may need to cover the cost.
• Privacy and Rights Forms: You must also sign two additional forms from the ABC.
• Application Fee: The total fee is $50, with $25 due at submission and the remainder upon approval.

Background Check Requirements: What Can Disqualify You?

Arkansas strictly regulates who can work in its cannabis industry. The ABC prohibits issuing a Registry Identification Card to anyone with an excluded felony offense, such as unsealed or unpardoned felonies and controlled substance-related felonies unless the sentence was completed 10 or more years before applying.

Arkansas Cannabis Licensing Structure

Understanding the state’s licensing framework helps navigate the job market. Arkansas has issued 38 dispensary licenses, with 36 operational. State law allows 20 to 40 dispensaries and between 4 and 8 cultivation licenses, though only 5 have been issued. Dispensaries can grow up to 50 plants each. Manufacturing and product testing are also regulated under the Department of Health.

Key Considerations for Dispensary Workers in Arkansas

Though Arkansas only allows medical marijuana use, the industry offers growing opportunities in cultivation, product manufacturing, and dispensary operations. As the medical marijuana program evolves, the demand for skilled workers increases.

Here are some important points for dispensary job applicants:

• Patient Base: By 2021, nearly 100,000 patients were approved, creating demand for knowledgeable, patient-focused dispensary employees.
• Geographic Distribution of Dispensaries: The state divides Arkansas into eight zones for licensing, limiting the number of dispensaries in each zone to ensure statewide access.
• Residency Requirement: At least 60% of dispensary ownership must be held by individuals who have been Arkansas residents for at least the last seven consecutive years.

Knowledge of Cannabis Strains and Products

Aside from customer service, you’ll also need a solid understanding of different cannabis strains, products, and their effects. Employees should be able to educate patients on various products, their onset times, and their potential benefits. If you don’t already have previous experience working in the industry, enrolling in a course like our dispensary agent certification can help get you up to speed in just 10 hours or less.

Ability to Work in a Regulated Environment

Cannabis companies operate within strict regulatory frameworks, requiring employees to adhere to all state laws and regulations governing the cultivation, manufacturing, sale, and distribution of medical marijuana. 

How to Get Started Working in a Dispensary

Research Available Job Opportunities

Online job portals like Indeed or LinkedIn and Industry-Specific websites like Vangst.com often list job openings in dispensaries. If those aren’t working fast enough for you, you can also try working with an industry-specific recruiting company like FlowerHire to get the ball rolling. 

Building your network within the industry can help you get a leg up with new opportunities. Attending industry events, joining professional associations, and networking with individuals already working in the cannabis industry can help provide valuable insights and job leads. 

Craft a Compelling Resume and Cover Letter

When applying for a job at a Arkansas dispensary, it is important to craft a compelling resume and cover letter. Tailor your resume to highlight any relevant experience, such as previous work in customer service or healthcare, as well as any certifications or training related to the cannabis industry. Emphasize your passion for the cannabis industry and its potential to improve people’s lives. It is also important to maintain professionalism throughout the application process.

References

https://portal.arkansas.gov/medical-marijuana/

https://www.dfa.arkansas.gov/office/medical-marijuana-commission/

https://www.dfa.arkansas.gov/office/medical-marijuana-commission/rules-regulations/